Sunday 16 June 2019, 10:57

All to play for in Group C

  • Italy already through but face battle for top spot

  • Brazil and Australia out to secure last-16 berths

  • Jamaica hunt a first Women's World Cup goal

Italy are already assured of a place in the last 16 but, aside from that, nothing is yet decided in Group C. Brazil and Australia could still snatch top spot from Le Azzurre but, by the same token, neither are safe from elimination.

Even Jamaica, while resigned to heading home, are not assured of doing so. In any case, the prospect of winning their first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup™ point - or even netting a maiden goal - will be motivation enough for the Reggae Girlz. The impressive Italians, meanwhile, are aiming to further fortify their burgeoning reputation by maintaining an unblemished start to the tournament.

Italy-Brazil: Group C, Valenciennes, 21:00

Team reporter analysis

Sonja Nikcevic (ITA) Italy go into the last round of group matches already qualified and full of confidence. But they are also well aware of how different their route might be depending on their final position in Group C. After facing two very physical sides, the match against Brazil will test Le Azzurre's technical and tactical maturity in a different way as they play a team whose game is more similar to their own - with lots of technically skilled players who enjoy running with the ball. While Milena Bertolini may rest a few players who have borne a heavy physical burden so far, expect a strong, fit and motivated Italy starting XI.

Giancarlo Giampietro (BRA) As frustrating as the defeat to Australia was, Brazil showed themselves capable of going toe-to-toe with a title contender. Having digested what happened in Montpellier, A Seleção have turned the page, with the mood in the camp confident and optimistic. That’s the kind of mentality needed for another challenging match. The squad will need to deal with Formiga’s absence by being smart with the ball and avoiding simple mistakes.

Jamaica-Australia: Group C, Grenoble, 21:00

Kayon Davis (JAM) It’s one last hurrah for Jamaica, with the curtain all but certain to close on their historic debut appearance at the Women’s World Cup. They are currently at the foot of Group C and will seek some points or even a goal in their encounter against Australia. So far, coach Hue Menzies has tried all but five players on his roster and seen his team concede eight goals, scoring none in reply. Can he now find the right combination and strategy to eke out a solid performance against the Aussies?

Peter Smith (AUS) The Matildas self-belief has been strengthened by that morale-boosting come-from-behind win over Brazil. A win of any description will take the Matildas into the last 16, while a resounding victory would boost their chances of finishing second or even first. With that in mind, it will be interesting to see how Ante Milicic tinkers with his tactics and starting side. Another line-up consideration will be the possibility of a short turnaround if the team does finish in second spot.