After Three Rounds - Where They Stand

16 – Argentina
Well, somebody had to fill this slot and they were put there early with that nightmare opener against Germany. Four years to build.
15 – Ghana
Ghana conceded 15 goals and seemed to lose their way as the tournament progressed.
14 – New Zealand
The team settled a bit after the initial match shock of playing Brazil. They only conceded four goals in the next two matches.
13 – Japan
A win (over Argentina in the last minute), a draw, and a loss. They never got fully untracked.
12 – Nigeria
Tough loss to the USA as they nearly had an equaliser in stoppage time. Deflected early goal put them on the back foot but the team played with heart throughout.
11 – Canada
As I thought, the match went down to the final whistle. Unfortunately for Canada the last minute goal by Australia knocked them out.
10 – Denmark
Opening match last minute goal to China kept Denmark from advancing.
9 – Sweden
The WWC ’03 finalists finally showed their abilities in defeating North Korea. Too little too late.
8 – Australia
Matildas advanced through last minute goal by captain Cheryl Salisbury. Brazil can not afford to take them lightly.
7 – England
England showed they could play with the favorites at the World Cup by drawing with Germany. After a shaky start with Japan, they’ve made it to the knockout stage and now must show that they belong in the ranks of the elite teams. Eliminating the US would be the next big step in that direction.
6 – North Korea
Slipped against Sweden but still look like they will be able to push Germany to the very end. Again, another team ready to make that next big step.
5 – China
They survived the group stage and now will meet Norway in an “old school” match up. The fans, the home field, they’ll need it all to get to the semifinals. Just might.
4 – USA
Now, they have to put it together. With Abby Wambach up front, that’s still a real possibility. Three matches to truly lay claim to “The Greatest Team …” tagline.
3 – Norway
Norway starting to put things together but they will be facing the host team in the quarterfinals. Tough draw.
2 – Brazil
Denmark made Brazil look a bit human. They cannot afford to take Australia lightly. They’ll likely get the job done.
1 - Germany
They still look to be the favorite but North Korea will be a tough test in the quarterfinals. Prinz must start to show her ’03 form.