The tournament featuring 32 teams runs from July 20 to August 20, and this edition expands the field to include a wide array of talent from across the globe.
From July 20 through August 20, the spotlight will shine on Australia and New Zealand as the Women’s World Cup returns with a larger, more competitive field. The United States defends the title and eyes a fifth triumph, yet it will contend with strong challengers such as England, Germany, and France as the tournament unfolds.
Despite some injuries trimming the roster, a deep pool of world-class players remains ready to showcase skill and determination, including superstars Megan Rapinoe, Marta, and Alessia Russo. A new generation also enters the stage, with rising talents like Aoba Fujino, Alyssa Thompson, and Melchie Dumornay positioning themselves to make an impact on the world stage.
The announced selections cover the major international squads, each player aligned with the club they will represent on the global stage. It is worth noting that this ninth edition marks a historic milestone: the tournament features 32 teams divided into eight groups of four teams each.
New Zealand
As hosts, New Zealand aims to advance beyond the group stage for the first time in their World Cup history, buoyed by home support and a confident coaching staff. The head coach, Jitka Klimková, trimmed the squad from 33 to 23 players as preparations intensify for the event.
Norway
Norway faced a difficult Euro 2022 and will look to rebound with a balanced squad featuring offensive playmakers such as Caroline Graham Hansen, Ada Hegerberg, and Guro Reiten. Injuries reshaped the lineup, with Maria Thorisdottir sidelined and Elisabet Terland’s omission surprising some observers. Reserve players Emma Stolen Godo and Malin Brenn were named to provide depth as the squad finalizes its plans for the tournament.
Riise announced a 23-player roster on June 19, with remaining adjustments made before the start of the competition.
Philippines
The Philippines enter their first Women’s World Cup with a focus on enjoying the experience and competing fiercely. A provisional roster has been published, and several players will not participate in the final tournament as preparation continues.
Switzerland
Switzerland aims to reach the group stage after a tough Euro 2022. Ramona Bachmann will lead the attack from the front while Lia Walti orchestrates play from midfield. Following the final squad announcement on July 3, injured Iman Beney had to be replaced by Amira Arfaoui.
Australia
As co-hosts, Australia relies on the leadership of Chelsea legend Sam Kerr to push for glory. The roster, unveiled on July 3, reflects a strong, balanced squad ready to contend on home soil.
Ireland
The Republic of Ireland prepared for the tournament with a final squad announcement pending, anchored by captain and Arsenal star Katie McCabe and North Carolina Courage midfielder Denise O’Sullivan as key contributors. The squad remains focused on competing at the highest level.
Nigeria
Nigeria seeks to stand out on the world stage with a lineup built around Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala, a consistent performer who shined during qualifying. Head coach Randy Waldrum confirmed the final 23-man squad ahead of the tournament.
Canada
Canada released a provisional roster in early June and finalized the 23-player squad a month later. Christine Sinclair, vying to extend her record as the all-time top scorer internationally, will again spearhead the Canadian attack as she pursues more history at the World Cup.
Spain
Spain, under coach Jorge Vilda, confirmed a 23-player squad. While some big names were unavailable due to federation disputes, several players who temporarily left the squad returned, including Aitana Bonmati, Ona Battle, and Mariona Caldentey. A dozen others who had initially withdrawn were not selected this time around.
Costa Rica
La Tricolor returns for a second World Cup with Raquel Rodríguez among the most recognizable players. The preliminary list had already signaled a determined effort to make an impact on the world stage.
Zambia
Zambia stands out as one of Africa’s rising forces, featuring a mix of players based in Spain alongside a solid core of homegrown talent. The final 23 were confirmed with key contributors in place as the tournament approached.
Japan
Japan, once a world champion, remains a potent challenger this summer with young stars like Aoba Fujino catching the eye. The final 23-player roster from Japan reflects a blend of experience and youth ready to make noise on the world stage.
England
England rolled out a strong squad under coach Sarina Wiegman, with injury replacements brought in as the tournament loomed. The selection process ensured depth across positions, maintaining England’s status as a frontrunner in the competition.
Haiti
In their World Cup debut, Haiti relies on 19-year-old Melchie Dumornay to lead the attack, with a pathway to Lyon after the tournament. The provisional list signals the ambition and excitement surrounding their first appearance on this stage.
Denmark
Denmark returns after a short absence, with Pernille Harder delivering peak form and a real shot at the Golden Boot. An injury to Nadia Nadim creates a challenge, but the roster remains competitive and capable of surprising.
The coach Lars Sjögren announced the final 23 players on June 30, 2023, marking a critical step in final preparations for the World Cup.
China
China has a storied history in the event and continues to push for progress, building on past performances across the 1990s and early 2000s. Coach Shui Qingxia confirmed the final 23-player roster on July 5, signaling a determined campaign to advance beyond earlier rounds.
USA
With the defending title on the line, the United States faces a few selection dilemmas and injuries that will shape its tournament path. While the depth remains impressive, the absence of some stars opens opportunities for others to shine on the global stage.
Vietnam
Vietnam travelled to Frankfurt for pre-tournament preparations, naming a provisional group from which 10 players will be cut before the World Cup begins, as the team aims to maximize experience and exposure at this level.
The Netherlands
The Dutch squad features a large group initially called up, with 23 players ultimately selected. A notable setback occurred when Vivianne Miedema sustained an ACL injury, affecting the team’s attacking plans.
Portugal
Portugal was among the earliest to submit its World Cup roster. The 23 players gathered in Ciudad del Fútbol ahead of travel to New Zealand, focusing on team cohesion and tactical readiness for the tournament’s demands.
France
France, guided by Herve Renard in Australia and New Zealand, adjusted the roster before the start of the event, making difficult choices to balance talent and team needs for the campaign ahead.
Jamaica
Jamaica eyes a strong showing in Australia and New Zealand, with Bunny Shaw positioned as the central figure in attack as the provisional list is finalized and the team gears up for a competitive run.
Brazil
Brazil, the South American champions, seeks to translate their regional success to the World Cup stage. Marta remains a legendary presence, while Ludmila’s injury absence is a setback for the squad as preparations continue for the summer battles.
Panama
Panama makes its World Cup debut, marking a historic moment for the program as the team aims to compete with established nations and make a memorable first appearance.
Sweden
Sweden has a proud World Cup history, with finals and deep runs. Stina Blackstenius is expected to contribute significantly as the team looks to add another strong chapter to its record, building on past success.
South Africa
South Africa faces a challenging group stage with a smaller squad dealing with injury setbacks. The selection emphasizes resilience and growth as the tournament unfolds.
Italy
Italy seeks to rebound from a disappointing Euro 2022, aiming to push into the knockout rounds with a mix of youth and experience and a stronger away campaign prospect.
Argentina
Argentina seeks to break new ground by progressing beyond the group stage in a World Cup for women. The team faces a demanding draw but carries a hopeful narrative about growth and international competition.
Germany
Germany, the Euro 2022 runner-up, will trim its squad by several players to reach the final 23, balancing depth with the need for peak performance when it matters most.
Morocco
Morocco, another first-time World Cup participant, looks to emulate the men’s team’s momentum with captain Ghizlane Chebbak taking a central role as the squad takes shape for a historic campaign.
Colombia
Colombia returns after missing the 2019 edition, chasing a breakthrough with young talents like Linda Caicedo, who earned a move to Real Madrid earlier in the year and embodies the team’s high aspirations.
South Korea
South Korea aims to surpass past performances and reach the knockout round, counting on veteran Ji So-yun to harness her experience and lead the squad toward a successful run in the tournament.
Source: Goal