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Women’s World Cup 2023: 5 favorites to win it all down under

By Caden Charpentier

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 06: Chloe Kelly and Leah Williamson of England celebrate victory after the Women´s Finalissima 2023 match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on April 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 06: Chloe Kelly and Leah Williamson of England celebrate victory after the Women´s Finalissima 2023 match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on April 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 06: England head coach Sarina Wiegman celebratess victory with Keira Walsh after winning the Women´s Finalissima 2023 match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on April 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 06: England head coach Sarina Wiegman celebratess victory with Keira Walsh after winning the Women´s Finalissima 2023 match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on April 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /

2. England

Manager: Sarina Wiegman

FIFA World Ranking: No. 4

Like has happened across women’s football this year, injuries are going to plague the English a year after hoisting a major trophy. Three players from the starting XI in the final against Germany in the Euros will not be at the World Cup which includes Beth Mead, and Leah Williamson who are both out due to ACL injuries.

Under two different managers in the last two World Cups, the English earned a top-four finish in both tournaments.

Even with these setbacks and a defeat to Australia on their home turf a few months ago, Wiegman named a side loaded with talent set to compete for the world title. Millie Bright takes over as captain with Williamson sidelined while Alessia Russo, Rachel Daly, and Chelsea’s Lauren James are all exciting players to keep an eye on throughout the tournament. Mead’s absence along with the leadership component of Williamson are going to be tough hurdles to climb. Wiegman’s record alone in major competitions along with the top-class players at every level of the pitch make this England side a compelling top-three favorite.