Philippines vs Switzerland prediction, odds, betting tips and best bets for Women's World Cup 2023 group stage
European qualifiers Switzerland get their 2023 Women's World Cup started with a Group A match against debutants Philippines on the second day of tournament action.
Drawn alongside co-hosts New Zealand and established European side Norway, these two teams will know that points are vital in this match if they are to make a push for a knockout-stage spot.
Switzerland qualified for the competition in dramatic fashion, scoring a 121st-minute winner in their do-or-die playoff against Wales to send them to their second-ever Women's World Cup tournament.
Many, however, believe that this match could be primed to provide an early upset to whet the palate of fans as the tournament gets under way. Not only did Switzerland narrowly qualify for the finals to begin with, they have not won a single match since that dramatic moment, with defeats to Denmark and Iceland plus draws with Poland twice, China, Zambia, and Morocco.
As the Philippines are embarking on their first-ever Women's World Cup, these two teams have never met in competitive action previously.
Philippines vs Switzerland match facts
- Date: Friday, July 21
- Kickoff Time: 1 a.m. ET / 6 a.m. BST / 3 p.m. AEST (Sat, Mar. 4)
- Location: Dunedin Stadium (Dunedin, New Zealand)
- Official: Vincentia Amedome (TOG)
- Last meeting: None (First meeting)
Philippines vs Switzerland prediction, odds
- Moneyline lean: Switzerland (-700)
- Score prediction: Philippines 0-3 Switzerland
As far as minnows of the 2023 Women's World Cup go, the Philippines are one of the more talented groups, as reflected by Switzerland's relatively "lesser" odds as compared to some of the other lopsided matchups around the early stage of the tournament.
They may be 7/1 favourites over the Philippines, but compare that with the likes of Spain and the United States taking on similarly ranked opposition, and it's just enough to give the Philippines a glimmer of hope. There is value on backing the Philippines to get a result in this match, given Switzerland's recent struggles since their World Cup qualification was secured.
Yet while the Philippines squad does boast good attacking talent, and their front line has managed to score on European opposition in recent history, including goals against Scotland and Sweden this year, it will be extremely difficult for them to find a way through this Switzerland team anchored by Arsenal duo Lia Walti and Noelle Maritz in midfield and defence.
Philippines vs Switzerland: best bet
- Pick: Switzerland -2.5 goal handicap
- Odds: +115 (BetMGM)
No, Switzerland have not won since their dramatic late goal against Wales last October, but this matchup will provide a springboard to put those struggles behind them and begin their Women's World Cup in style.
This Switzerland team is far too talented to be kept down by a team of the Philippines' stature. Critical midfield lynchpin Lia Walti missed their most recent friendlies with an ankle injury, but she is fit and ready to play as the Women's World Cup gets under way.
That will help push star Ana Maria Crnogorcevic into a more attacking role after she was forced back into midfield in Walti's absence. Crnogorcevic is one to watch as the tournament progresses, as the 32-year-old winger is coming off a very high-quality season with Barcelona and can be a prolific goalscorer when put into attacking positions.
