1. What impact will Hope Solo's return have on the U.S. Women's National Team?
It can't hurt. In her absence, the U.S. team has struggled at times - but, truthfully, that has been more when attacking than when defending. That said, it is never a negative to have your best defensive player back on the field ready to go - even if just for the likely morale boost it gives to the team. The U.S. went 1-1 (a 2-0 loss to France and a 1-0 victory against England) while Solo was suspended. Beyond what happens on the pitch, Solo has 159 caps with the National Team that bring the intangible of World Cup experience to the team.
2. Who has the best chance of taking home the World Cup trophy?
That would be the Germans. They have the No. 1 ranking going into tournament (at least, as things stand today) and they have dominated group play, winning all of their 10 matches. They also have the best player in the world: FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year Nadine Angerer, their goal keeper. Who could upset the Germans? The U.S. is second in the rankings going into the tournament. They have struggled recently without keeper Hope Solo, but now that she is back, that can make a serious upset bid.
3. What underdog team has the best chance of winning it all?
The smart money is on France and it is probably right. The French, like the Germans, had a cake walk through group play, scoring 54 goals and allowing just three. They also have confidence on their side. They are the only team outside of group play to defeat the Germans in a pre-tournament tune-up, which was held on German soil. But, if you want a true underdog, look out for the defending champions Japan. Japan had a tougher route to the World Cup and passed with flying colors. They are tough, experienced, and they have something to prove.
4. Who are the players to watch out for?
FIFA Women's World Player of the Year Nadine Angerer, who might be the best goalie in the game right now; Alex Morgan of the USWNT, one of the leading scorers in women's soccer who bagged her 50th goal in a victory against England; and France's top scorer Gaetane Thiney, who has 13 goals. These women could be the difference-makers in their teams' quests to win the World Cup trophy.
5. Who has the toughest road to the cup?
No question, the USWNT has the toughest route. They have to face Nigeria, Australia and Sweden. That's a tough draw to start with. Easiest route to the Cup? Probably Germany. They face Norway, Thailand and Cote d'Ivoire.
