The stage is set for the quarterfinals of the 2015 Women's World Cup. China, Japan, Australia, England, Canada, Germany, France and the United States have all booked their place into the final eight.
Below is a complete preview, updated odds and match predictions for the upcoming round.
Fixtures
Germany vs. France, June 26, 4 p.m. ET, Olympic Stadium (Montreal)
China vs. United States, June 26, 7:30 p.m. ET, Lansdowne Stadium (Ottawa)
Australia vs. Japan, June 27, 4 p.m. ET, Commonwealth Stadium (Edmonton)
England vs. Canada, June 27, 7:30 p.m. ET, BC Place (Vancouver)
Updated Odds (via Bovada) and Predictions
Germany (-210) vs. France (+160)
Germany enter the match as prohibitive favorites, for not only their quarterfinal encounter with France, but to claim the title as well. No team has scored more goals (19), nor taken more shots (117) than Germany. Anja Mittag, the tournament's top goalscorer (five), advance to the semifinals.
Prediction: Germany 2-0 France
China (-140) vs. United States (+110)
Yellow-card suspensions will keep both Megan Rapinoe and Lauren Holiday out of the quarterfinal encounter with China. Replacing the dynamic duo will prove to be head coach Jill Ellis' toughest test yet. Adding to the United States' woes is a tough Chinese defense that has only conceded three goals this World Cup. The Stars and Stripes get pushed to the brink, but prevail in penalties.
Prediction: United States (4) 0-0 (3) China
Australia (+155) vs. Japan (-200)
Australia provided the upset of the tournament, eliminating Brazil in the Round of 16, but the defending champions will prove to be too much. Japan walk into the semifinals after a comfortable victory that won't be reflected in the scoreline.
Prediction: Australia 0-1 Japan
England (-165) vs. Canada (+125)
Neither team has been impressive thus far this tournament. England advanced to the quarterfinals for first time in their history and face a winnable match against the tournament hosts. All signs should point to an English victory, but home-field advantage will turn the tide in penalties.
Prediction: England (3) 2-2 (5) Canada
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