I'm definitely rooting for the USA, but I also have high hopes for the Netherlands. I think Germany will be a really strong contender (obviously - they're ranked #1 so they should be good!) as well.
I'm a little surprised by Canada's performance. I thought they would have come out a little stronger against China considering they have home field advantage and they are ranked 8 places higher. They got a Penalty Kick in stoppage time and didn't waste it. I always root for the home team, so I'm glad they managed to start the tournament off well. It's possible that as the tournament progresses they will get more confident and be able to make something of their opportunities.
Netherlands didn't come out as strong as I had hoped. I thought they were going to blow New Zealand out of the water and they only managed to put away one goal! Similarly to Canada, I think they were just getting their feet under them. It's a new atmosphere and there is a ton of pressure on the players. Keep in mind, I grew up in Holland so I have a bit of a soft spot for the dutch - but I really do think they'll do well!
As for Norway and Germany, no surprises there. They annihilated Thailand and the Ivory coast, respectively. Germany perhaps put away more goals than is typically tasteful (there's sort of an unspoken rule that good sportsmanship dictates you stop at 9 goals), but it is the world cup and goal differential could conceivably be a factor in their tournament progression. It would be strategically advantageous to wrack up those points while they can.
I went on News Radio 680 WPTF today to talk about my thoughts on the Women's World Cup so far.
I'll be on again tomorrow around mid-day to talk about the USA's performance in tonight's game.
Who do you think will win the 2015 Women's World Cup?
Malena
