David BurdumESPN staff writer3 minutes of reading
World Cup debutant Sullivan is unfazed by talk of a three-peat
USWNT’s Andy Sullivan talks about his hopes for his first World Cup and the experience of the veteran players on the roster.
The US has won the last two Women’s World Cups and is the betting favorite for an unprecedented third consecutive victory this year. But the gap between the U.S. women and the competition has narrowed, and the odds are reflected in a more competitive field than in recent World Cups.
Caesars Sportsbook has the USA at +225 to win the trophy, followed by England (+450), Spain (+500) and Germany (+750). France +1,000, Australia next +1,200. Sweden +2,000 and the Netherlands +2,200. USA was the heavy favorite to win the 2019 World Cup.
The United States, who have won four World Cups overall, are heavily favored by bettors at American sportsbooks. FanDuel reported Tuesday that the U.S. attracted 82% of the money wagered on winning the Cup. The UK is in second place with only 5% of the total money.
American striker Alex Morgan is favorite to win the Golden Boot award for the tournament’s top goalscorer. Morgan +550, followed by teammate Sophia Smith +800.
The World Cup starts on Thursday in New Zealand and Australia. This year the field has been expanded to 32 teams.
The U.S. plays in Group E against Vietnam on Friday. The U.S. has never lost a group-stage opener at a World Cup. Vietnam is making its first appearance in the World Cup. America is a huge -40,000 favorite over Vietnam.
No team, women’s or men’s, has ever won three consecutive World Cups.
