Women’s football: Coral’s terrific World Cup tips

France: 5/1
England will face cross-Channel foes France in Group F, who will be keen to improve on their last fourth place finish. One of women’s football’s heavy weights, they have never lifted this trophy, and that must rankle.

Les Bleus boss Philippe Bergeroo, a three-capped former keeper for the men’s side, will be confident as France have often had the measure of their Three Lionesses rivals, while sharpshooting pair Marie-Laure Delie and Gaetane Thiney certainly have goals in them.

Brazil: 6/1
The Female Canaries, decked out in the famous gold and green, missed their chance to win this tournament back in 2007 after being sunk by Germany in the final, but could be tasty chances to make amends in Canada.

Arriving as champions of the 2014 Copa America Femenina, expectations will be high for Brazil to emerge unscathed against Costa Rica, Spain and South Korea from Pool E. Much of the weight will fall on five-time FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year and superstar striker Marta.

The former 2007 World Cup Golden Ball and Golden Boot victor is one of few Brazilians to ply her trade outside her homeland, currently representing Swedish side Rosengard, and majestic Matra, joint World Cup all-time top scorer, can smash records in North America.

Watch Marta’s amazing skills:

Japan: 9/1
As holders, Japan are excellent value to retain their title, and the East Asian outfit have already been given a boost by the inclusion of star playmaker, icon and all-time top scorer Homare Sawa, who was a doubt for the squad.

An organised and team-work orientated unit, Japan could certainly go all the way again with Sawa and skipper Aya Miyama pulling the strings.

Sawa’s greatest goal?

England: 20/1
Oh England. The Three Lionesses have never made it past the quarter-finals before, so a last four finish should be the most realistic target for Mark Sampson’s plucky side.

Most-capped England player and Liverpool star Fara Williams is still available, but the Three Lionesses lack a true predator since top scorer Kelly Smith’s recent retirement.

Coral’s best betting tip: with Marta in the ranks back Brazil @ 6/1 to win the World Cup