A LOOK AT THE EIGHT WOMEN'S WORLD CUP GROUPS

GROUP A (Based in New Zealand)

New Zealand (world ranking No.26), Norway (12), Philippines (46), Switzerland (20)

Norway bombed out at the Euros but are favourites to top this group, with talents like Caroline Graham Hansen, Guro Reiten and Ada Hegerberg. It could be a scrap for second place. Switzerland are rock-solid, there will arguably never be a better opportunity for New Zealand to progress, while former Matildas boss Alen Stajcic has worked wonders with the Philippines.

GROUP B (Based in Australia)

Australia (10), Ireland (22), Nigeria (40), Canada (7)

Australia will be likely in a two-horse race with Olympic champions Canada, who are in a funding war with their federation, to top the group. But realistically, all four teams would back themselves to qualify. Ireland are at their first World Cup while Nigeria are one of a handful of teams to attend every tournament.

GROUP C (NZ)

Spain (6), Costa Rica (36), Zambia (77), Japan (11)

This appears realistically down to Spain and Japan. Spain's lead-up has been disrupted by player unrest amid discontent with coach Jorge Vilda. Some players opted out of selection while star Alexia Putellas is still finding form after her ACL tear. The 2011 champions, Japan are a big-tournament team with an attractive playing style.

GROUP D (Aus)

England (4), Haiti (53), Denmark (13), China (14)

Euro champions England should top this group but it won't be easy, especially without injured stars Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Fran Kirby. Pernille Harder will attempt to inspire Denmark, while Asian Cup champions China will also expect to progress. Debutants Haiti will hope to cause some headaches.

GROUP E (NZ)

USA (1), Vietnam (32), Netherlands (9), Portugal (21)

This group should come down to reigning champions the US and 2019 finalists the Netherlands, who are without superstar striker Vivianne Miedema (ACL). Vietnam are the minnows, while Portugal will attempt to spring an upset.

GROUP F (Aus)

France (5), Jamaica (43), Brazil (8), Panama (52)

Realistically, this group should come down to Herve Renard's rejuvenated French charges and ever-present threat Brazil. France are without Amandine Henry and several other stars but are slick and tough. Brazil will hope to send legend Marta off in style.

Group G (NZ)

Sweden (3), South Africa (54), Italy (16), Argentina (28)

Sweden are outright favourites in this group but from there the group appears a bit more open. Italy should be favourites to earn the second knockout spot but there are no guarantees.

Group H (Aus)

Germany (2), Morocco (72), Colombia (25), South Korea (17)

This is a delicately poised group. Germany are the team to beat but have had shaky lead-up form. South Korea are always strong, while Colombia are on the rise. Morocco are a danger team in their first World Cup.