Switzerland vs New Zealand Prediction: La Nati will advance to the next round

Switzerland will strive to maintain their unbeaten run when they square off against co-host New Zealand at the Forsyth Barr Stadium on Sunday. La Nati will advance to the knockout phase if they avoid defeat or claim the top spot if they obtain the maximum points. On the other hand, New Zealand must secure all the points to stand a chance or share the points and wait for the outcome of Norway against the Philippines. This group has witnessed the fewest goals in this tournament, with four goals scored in the last four matches.

FIFA Ranking: 20th

La Nati's side began their World Cup campaign with a (0-2) victory over the Philippines. After losing the opening game against Japan in their debut season in 2015, Switzerland got their second three points in the history of the tournament. The result was followed by another great defensive display against Norway. Switzerland's goalkeeper was influential for her side after producing the player of the game performance. Thallmann kept Switzerland in the game after making five remarkable saves to deny Norway three points.

The job isn’t done yet, as La Nati's side must at least obtain a point here to stand a chance of advancing, but a victory will place them at the top of the log.

Possible Starting Lineup (4-4-2): Aurora Mikalsen; Thea Bjelde, Maren Mjelde, Mathilde Harviken, Tuva Hansen; Vilde Risa, Frida Maanum, Amalie Eikeland, Guro Reiten; Ada Hegerberg, Emilie Haavi.

FIFA Ranking: 22nd

Football Ferns will hope to make it out of the group phase for the first time since 1991. New Zealand defied all odds when they secured their first three points in the history of this competition following their (1-0) victory over Norway. Football Ferns were stunned in their second game when Philippines' Sarina Bolden scored in the first twenty-four minutes. New Zealand thought they had an equalizer when Hand powered a shot into the back of the net, but the goal was chopped off for offside as they bowed to a (1-0) defeat.

The defeat leaves the co-host nation with a slim chance of securing the ticket to the next round, as they must either win or avoid defeat to advance.

Possible Starting Eleven (4-4-2): Victoria Esson; Catherine Bott, Rebekah Stott, Katie Bowen, Ali Riley; Indiah-Paige Riley, Ria Percival, Malia Steinmetz, Betsy Hassett; Jacqui Hand, Hannah Wilkinson.

Both sides have won a game apiece over their previous two meetings. New Zealand were unlucky against the Philippines, and we think they deserved a point at least. It’s worrisome for New Zealand, who have won five times since the start of 2021, having played thirty games, although they were mostly friendly games. On the other hand, Switzerland were below par against Norway, and if not for their goalkeeper, Thallmann, they’d have lost the game. Both sides have a stern test ahead as they fight for the top spot. Switzerland look the better side, and despite the massive pressure from the crowd, we think La Nati won’t bow to a defeat; bet on a home win or draw and under 2.5 goals for 1.85.

Both sides can make it out of the group phase if New Zealand keep it clean here; bet on a full-time draw for 3.05.

This game doesn’t guarantee goals as both teams will be cautious not to concede first; bet on both halves under 1.5 goals for 1.80.

Good luck!