The stage is set for the 2022 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup taking place in Spain and the Netherlands this summer. Sixteen teams are ready to go head-to-head and thrash it out for the prestigious gold and silver trophy. This year everybody’s eyes are on the eternally fantastic world champion Netherlands squad, but comparison site oddschecker, who offer free bets as a welcome bonus via BetVictor, think Argentina could seriously put the pressure on the title holders. Four years ago, there was a series of unexpected victories and there’s nothing to say it won’t happen again. So here we’re taking a look at three underdogs who could cause carnage come July 1.
Ireland
Despite getting through to the final in the 2018 FIH Hockey World Cup, Ireland suffered a string of one-sided defeats in the 2020 Summer Olympics including a 4-0 loss to the Netherlands and a 1-0 defeat to India. While they are currently ranked 13th in the world, the Irish team proved that they could go against the odds four years ago and could definitely cause some upsets this year too. There’s also nothing quite like the Irish spirit and, time and again; Irish squads have been written off against bigger competition only to thwart them when the big day comes.
India
While everybody knows India are a pretty strong team, ranking currently at number eight, they’ll have their work cut out for them in the World Cup with both England and New Zealand in their group. However, speaking earlier this year, the team’s halfback, Sushila Chanu, stressed that their team are not afraid of anyone and that India’s ‘fighting spirit’ will see them succeed. They’re certainly not backing down and that’s why we should be keeping a close eye on the Indian squad throughout July’s big competition.
Canada
It’s Canada’s first World Cup in over 30 years and they’ve certainly got a difficult group going into the finals. Up against the likes of top-class teams, Spain and Argentina, as well as decent contenders South Korea, it won’t be an easy road to the finals. However, as it’s their first World Cup in three decades, the Canadian side are seriously looking to prove themselves and will not be backing down to anybody. They’re definitely one to look out for.
But only on the 17th July, under the baking sun of the Estadi Olímpic de Terrassa, will we really know who has what it takes. It’s going to be a serious competition, that’s for sure.
