It has been a season to remember for women’s football with record attendances, more broadcast coverage than ever and now have a huge World Cup to look forward to.
The success of the European Championships in England last summer saw the game get an injection of interest that has boosted coverage of the game throughout the United Kingdom, with England and Scotland breaking domestic attendance records on almost a weekly basis.
Both England and the Republic of Ireland will head down under to compete for the Women’s World Cup, which is set to begin on July 20 in New Zealand as one of the host nations, The Football Ferns, face the might of Guro Reiten, Ada Hegerberg and their Norwegian side.
And as we edge closer to the tournament, many are wondering if England can make it a double success after winning last year’s Euros, if Megan Rapinoe and the USA can hold their crown or can Sam Kerr and her Matilda’s side can bring joy to her homeland?
Here are the current bookies favourites* for the tournament.
*All odds provided by SkyBet and are accurate at the time of writing. Odds are subject to change at any point. Please gamble responsibly.
5. Japan - 8/1
Japan have won three from three and are the surprise package of the tournament. Their 4-0 thrashing of Spain has them right amongst the frontrunners. | Getty
6. Netherlands - 9/1
While they are missing key striker Vivianne Miedema, the likes of Victoria Pelova, Jill Roord and Daniëlle van der Donk ensure the Dutch are right in amongst the list of potential winners after an impressive group stage. Photo: Harriet Lander
7. Australia - 11/1
Surprisingly the Australian team are not seen as one of the frontrunners for the trophy. Home nation, recently become the first team to beat England in over 30 games and Sam Kerr up top? They have a fantastic chance at lifting the trophy. Photo: Ryan Pierse
8. Sweden - 18/1
The Swede's are one of the powerhouses of women's football and have come close to a number of major trophies recently. Can they finally go one step further? Photo: Aitor Alcalde