Sixty-two games down and just two to go - the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia has been an emotional roller coaster - disappointment for some whose national teams didn’t progress as far as they expected and euphoria for some who got farther than they’d ever dreamed. It all comes down to the Final between Spain and England on Sunday, August 20th between Spain and England but also a very exciting matchup in the 3rd Place Match, where one of the co-hosts of the tournament have earned the opportunity to give their adoring home fans an encore.

MaryBeth Zmuda Picks…
- Sweden vs Australia - World Cup 3rd Place Match
  - Saturday, August 19th - 1:00am PST / 4:00am EST
    from Suncorp Stadium
  - Australia has been one of the surprise darlings of this world cup and their "almost" trip to the finals was an awesome surprise to watch. But alas it seems like their trip will end without a top 3 placement. Sweden's defense has been the lynchpin to its success throughout this tournament and I just don't think Australia has enough offense to break through.
- A Second Shout from Danielle Gawronski
  - Australia wind on home soil with a well rested and motivated Sam Kerr. The best love story is Sam Kerr kissing Kristie Mewis after scoring the game winner.

MaryBeth Zmuda Picks…
- Spain vs England - World Cup Final
  - Sunday, August 20th - 3:00am PST / 6:00am EST
    from Stadium Australia
  - Spain was able to get past Sweden's rock solid defense and though they only had 2 real shots, they surely made them count. They are also the team with the most goals thus far in the tournament.
    
    England's only 2 solid wins were against China in the group stage (6-1) and Australia in the semis (3-1). But now they're on the biggest stage and have their star Lauren James back. Regardless, I still think this will be a close one and have my fingers crossed for Las Rojas.
- A Shout from Dan Vaughn
  - So much for rooting for underdogs. This isn’t the matchup anyone but English fans were wanting. So with two Euro powers facing off, who to root for? Spain, just out of spite.
- A Second Shout from Danielle Gawronski
  - England will win. Lauren James will make up for her red card.

by the Protagonist Staff