Looks like the fierce battle in Group A will remain tight until the final group-stage match. Things become more interesting, especially after Canada—who were hit with a 6-point deduction earlier—recently clinched a 2-1 win over France to successfully pay off their negative points debt. This brings up the question of what exactly the qualification scenario looks like for the quarterfinal stages.

CanWNT’s second win in a row, after a 2-1 over New Zealand, has surprisingly created a window of opportunity for them to make it to the last eight. This is because the French ladies missed their chance to capitalize on their three-point advantage which they had got by achieving a 3-2 triumph over Colombia to retain their place at the top. Likewise, today’s subsequent fixture saw Colombia clinch a 2-0 victory over New Zealand.

This also saw the South American nation bagging their first three points to eventually become the toppers of Group A. The Colombians also have the advantage of a goal difference over France, who now sit in second place. Behind them in third place is Canada, with of course nil points. However, if Beverly Priestman’s side manages to clinch their third consecutive win over Colombia, which certainly won’t be easy, then they have a chance to make it to the next stage of the tournament.

Additionally, goal differential will prove to be a major tiebreaker. Among Colombia and France, Canada has the best goal difference of 2. So, in easier words, the path to the knockout stages for Bev Priestman and Co. is getting clearer. Things can get more easy if they get extra help from their rivals.

A win may not be enough for Canada to progress through the next stage of the competition!

While a victory is a must, Canada can further cement their chances in the quarterfinals by hoping that New Zealand defeats France in the final group stage match. Even though victory is expected for the hosts, surprises are in store that may see the Kiwis do a favor for their rivals, whom they accused of spying on their training sessions with drones.

Though third-placed teams of all three groups also have a way to make it to the quarter-finals, it’s unclear how that may go for Canada. They would likely push to make it to the round of eight with a top 2 finish. But for that, a lot of miracles are required to happen at once. Meanwhile, Canada is also required to maintain their composure in the next one.