Thrilling Rundown: Unveiling Mary Earps and Linda Caicedo’s Expert Take on Women's World Cup 2023!

Best player? Best goal? Best XI? We' journalists and reporters give their World Cup 2023 verdicts after a record-breaking tournament.

Charlotte Marsh: World-class Earps England's saviour

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Mary Earps saves Jennifer Hermoso's penalty in World Cup final

Best player - Mary Earps

Mary Earps, the phenomenal goalkeeper from England, played an instrumental role, both physically and metaphorically, in leading her team to victory. She consistently delivered awe-inspiring saves, marking her as a truly world-class player, especially during critical moments when the Lionesses were in dire need. Her exceptional contributions resulted in her well-deserved triumph as the Golden Glove recipient.

Outstandingly, Linda Caicedo's remarkable goal against Germany stood out as the best among all.

Linda Caicedo's goal stands out among the numerous impressive goals witnessed. Her remarkable display of skill, effortlessly maneuvering past two German defenders before executing a delightful finish, leaves a lasting impression. What makes this feat truly remarkable is that she is merely 18 years old and has already endured numerous challenges at such a tender age. Undoubtedly, her strike was nothing short of mesmerizing.

Additionally, a notable moment occurred when Australia successfully triumphed over France in a thrilling penalty shootout, emerging as the victors.

This moment will shape the future of women's football in Australia for years to come. Despite France's missed opportunities, the tenacious Matildas emerged victorious in a thrilling shootout, with a final score of 7-6. The scenes were filled with jubilation as fans nationwide celebrated this historic accomplishment, even on an airplane. It perfectly embodied the essence of the World Cup.

Emerging star - Linda Caicedo

What is life without consistency? It wasn't just the goal scored against Germany that distinguished her, Caicedo shone in every match she participated in. Being selected to start in five World Cup games, including two crucial knockout fixtures, is a demanding task for anyone. However, accomplishing this as a teenager and demonstrating such poise and technical ability is truly extraordinary.

Most notable match - Sweden 0-0 USA (5-4 on penalties)

The outcome of the tournament, apart from the final, was truly remarkable. This high-stakes game showcased two of the best teams in the world competing fiercely in a clash between their defensive and offensive strategies. Appropriately, the victory was obtained by Sweden with the narrowest gap, marking the first time they eliminated the USA prior to the semi-finals. Truly extraordinary.

Tournament's All-Star Team:

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Spain's Aitana Bonmati was the ultimate technician of the tournament

Best player - Aitana Bonmati

I openly expressed my admiration for Aitana Bonmati's remarkable skill during the coverage of this tournament. It was truly delightful to watch her play. Her ability to control the ball up close surpasses anything I have ever witnessed. She possesses an exceptional touch, impressive vision, impeccable timing, and a knack for scoring. She truly embodies the qualities of a complete midfielder. Beware Alexia Putellas, because Bonmati is on her way to claim your throne.

The most impressive goal of the tournament was Sam Kerr's against England.

This is absolutely remarkable. Bold in its essence, flawlessly executed. Picture having the knowledge and skill to sprint 50 yards forward, encompassed by rival jerseys, and then unleashing a powerful shot into the top left corner. A truly extraordinary display of individual prowess from one of the top players in the field.

Highlight moment - Chloe Kelly securing a penalty victory.

With all eyes fixed on the TV screen, the entire nation held its breath as Chloe Kelly confidently approached the penalty spot to face Nigeria. However, Chloe's composure was unrivaled as she calmly took the shot, displaying no signs of emotion. The crowd erupted in celebration as the ball found the back of the net. Only a true player can exhibit such unwavering determination amidst immense pressure.

Rising sensation - Linda Caicedo

Wouldn't it be refreshing if someone came up with a truly unique or unexpected statement? Unfortunately, it won't be me. Caicedo truly showcased her talent on the world stage during the World Cup, asserting her dominance as if she had always belonged there. Let's not forget to mention Lauren James, who brought England to life with her exceptional performances, even when nobody else could.

The most remarkable game of the tournament was undoubtedly Switzerland's defeat against Spain, with a score of 1-5.

The USA's loss to Sweden brought a bit more ease to England's quest for ultimate glory. However, I cannot consider a 0-0 match as the "game of the tournament." Apologies, Charlotte. My vote is for Spain's remarkable triumph over Switzerland. As a purist, Bonmati's fantastic opening goal followed by a deluge of goals, including the most peculiar own goal you might ever witness, captured my attention.

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The following football players have been selected for the team:

- Mary Earps from England

- Olga Carmona from Spain

- Alex Greenwood from England

- Amanda Ilestedt from Sweden

- Ona Batlle from Spain

- Aitana Bonmati from Spain

- Jill Roord from the Netherlands

- Jenni Hermoso from Spain

- Linda Caicedo from Colombia

- Salma Paralluelo from Spain

- Alessia Russo from England.

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Salma Paralluelo netted three times at the tournament - including a double against Japan

Best player - Mary Earps

Earps' choice to play for England may not have been glamorous, but it was certainly patriotic. In a tournament lacking standout performances, Earps' exceptional ability to rise to the occasion became crucial. Without their No 1 goalkeeper, England would have faced humiliation from Haiti, elimination by Nigeria, and a more significant loss in the final.

Highlight goal - Linda Caicedo's strike against Germany was the best of the tournament.

A combination of exceptional talent and flawless execution. Her agile footwork struck fear into the German defense and created one of the standout moments of the tournament. This goal, apart from being stunningly beautiful, also emphasized the permanence of the rising nations in the football world.

Highlight - Overcoming Nigeria and experiencing the exhilaration of victory.

Salma Paralluelo emerges as the breakout star.

The world of football has a rising star. At only 19 years old, this player has achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first to win the U17, U20, and senior world championships. It is clear why this individual has earned such accolades - they possess exceptional athleticism and technical prowess, making them a formidable opponent for defenders. The fact that they were chosen over the two-time consecutive Ballon D'Or winner, Alexia Putellas, in a World Cup final solidifies the notion that this teenager's moment has arrived.

Most notable performance - Australia 0-0 France (7-6 penalties)

The tournament truly captured the spirit of the nation, with Australia embracing it like never seen before. As a result, the Matildas emerged as the most popular athletes in the Southern Hemisphere. The thrilling match, featuring thirteen penalty kicks, showcased the incredible talent of Mackenzie Arnold and provided unmatched excitement and unpredictability.

Tournament's standout team:

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1. Mary Earps (England)

2. Olga Carmona (Spain)

3. Alex Greenwood (England)

4. Amanda Ilestedt (Sweden)

5. Ona Batlle (Spain)

6. Aitana Bonmati (Spain)

7. Jill Roord (Netherlands)

8. Teresa Abelleira (Spain)

9. Hinata Miyazawa (Japan)

10. Salma Paralluelo (Spain)

11. Kadidatou Diani (France).

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Alex Greenwood played a commanding role in England's back five

Best player - Alex Greenwood

Greenwood had an impressive defensive reshuffle and shouldered a significant responsibility, but she flawlessly adapted to a back three or four. Her set-piece delivery was exceptional and she effectively commanded the team. If England had emerged victorious in the World Cup, she would have undoubtedly been hailed as the best player.

The best goal award goes to Sam Kerr for her goal against England.

The goal was phenomenal, like a lightning strike. However, given Australia's injury issues throughout the tournament, it became a "goal-den" moment that could have equalized the score for them and brought them back on track.

The most memorable moment - New Zealand's unexpected victory against Norway.

From comforting players in the aftermath of a loss, to sharing affectionate embraces with loved ones in the stands, to witnessing Katie McCabe's remarkable goal from a corner against Canada, Ireland truly made their mark in their inaugural World Cup appearance. This tournament, however, proved to be a stage of surprises, and the initial shock came with New Zealand, the co-hosts, securing their first-ever victory, even defeating Norway. Truly epic!

Emerging as a standout performer - Linda Caicedo.

I agree with those who have named Caicedo - what an amazing story. She made her debut for the senior team at the young age of 14, but unfortunately, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 15. Despite her illness, she managed to score some remarkable goals and had everyone talking before the match against England. Truly remarkable.

The best game was undoubtedly the one between South Africa and Italy, which ended with a thrilling 3-2 victory for South Africa.

Colombia emerged as the runner-up, triumphing over Germany and solidifying their spot in the next round. Despite their head coach's ban, a remarkable goal by Caicedo and a 97th-minute winning goal contributed to their success. South Africa's thrilling last-second victory over Italy, propelling them to their historic first-ever Women's World Cup win, narrowly surpassed Colombia's accomplishments.

The tournament's standout team:

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1. Mary Earps (England)

2. Olga Carmona (Spain)

3. Alex Greenwood (England)

4. Millie Bright (England)

5. Risa Shimizu (Japan)

6. Aitana Bonmati (Spain)

7. Teresa Abelleira (Spain)

8. Jill Roord (Netherlands)

9. Hinata Miyazawa (Japan)

10. Mariona Caldentey (Spain)

11. Linda Caicedo (Colombia)

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Jamaica made it to the round of 16 before being narrowly beaten by Colombia

Best player - Aitana Bonmati

She is a skillful midfielder who controls the majority of Spain's gameplay. Not only can she score crucial goals and generate opportunities, but she also excels at disrupting the opponent's play and defending when necessary. It comes as no shock that she was awarded the prestigious Golden Ball. The most remarkable goal was achieved by Marta Cox against France.

The technique, power, and accuracy were truly exceptional. However, what truly resonated with me was the player's reaction, which highlighted the immense significance of scoring at a World Cup finals. It was simply incredible.

Highlight - A historic achievement for the Reggae Girlz.

The forward roll performed by Lorne Donaldson at the end of the game, following a draw against Brazil that ensured their progression, stands out as a cherished memory. Considering all the obstacles Jamaica had to overcome just to reach the World Cup finals, reaching the knockout stage of a significant tournament was an exceptional accomplishment.

Emerging talent - Linda Caicedo

She is an exceptional player for Colombia, despite being only 18 years old, which is truly remarkable. Her technical skills are impeccable, making her a superstar in her own right. Her unforgettable goal against Germany is still fresh in everyone's memory.

Most memorable match - England's triumph with a 6-1 victory over China.

Clinical. The goals were outstanding and this was a game that proved just how unstoppable England can be.

Team of the tournament

Mary Earps from England, Olga Carmona representing Spain, Wendie Renard hailing from France, Millie Bright representing England, Ona Batlle from Spain, Jill Roord representing the Netherlands, Keira Walsh from England, Aitana Bonmati representing Spain, Hinata Miyazawa representing Japan, Kadidiatou Diani from France, and Linda Caicedo from Colombia.