2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Odds & Picks: Friday (7/21)

If the first two matches are any indication, we are in for a thrilling tournament. Both co-host nations collected a crucial three points with identical 1-0 victories. A 48th minute goal from Hannah Wilkinson gave New Zealand a lead over Norway they would never relinquish, while Stephanie Catley’s penalty lifted Australia past Ireland. The rest of the world, including the two-time defending World Cup champion United States, takes the stage over the next few days, so let’s take a look at Friday’s slate.

Friday’s Best FIFA World Cup Picks

Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook

Philippines vs. Switzerland

The Swiss side will be making just their second appearance at the Women’s World Cup. The world’s 20th-best squad, according to FIFA, will be facing a Philippines team that is making history, appearing in the tournament for the first time ever. Both squads should come out a bit tentative before settling in, but I expect a methodical, slow-paced match that could very well end without a goal, or tied at one.

The Pick: Draw (+700)

Spain vs. Costa Rica

The sixth-ranked Spanish side will be looking for redemption this year, after catching a bad draw and falling to eventual champion, the United States, in the round of 16 four years ago. These two teams played to a 1-1 draw eight years ago, but Jenni Hermoso and Spain are going to be too much for Costa Rica. We have to look deeper at this one for some better odds, though, because Spain is a monster favorite in this one.

The Pick: First Goalscorer – Jenni Hermoso (+230)

United States vs. Vietnam

Another newcomer to the world stage, Vietnam gets a rude welcome prize. The two-time defending world champion and top-ranked team in the world awaits them in the opening match for both teams. This won’t be as easy as most think, but the U.S. should win comfortably. Once again, we have to look a little deeper for some value, but it’s easy to find.

The Pick: First Goalscorer (Megan Rapinoe +195)