FIFA announced on THU 07 JUL 2011 the provisional suspension of two Korea DPR defenders, SONG Jong Sun and JONG Pok Sim, after both players failed drug tests taken after the team’s 1-0 loss to Sweden in Group C. The players were both ineligible to compete in the last match, a goalless draw against Colombia, and as required when multiple players test positive, all other Korean players were tested after that match. FIFA has not publicly stated what substances were found, but has confirmed that Jong’s and Song’s B samples are to be tested.

One Nordic side goes home, while another records a historic victory, on WED 06 JUL 2011. more...

As with the other groups, the élite separated themselves from the rest in Group C on SAT 02 JUL 2011. more...

On TUE 28 JUN 2011, FIFA announced that Colombia reserve goalkeeper Yineth VARON failed a drug test and is provisionally suspended from the Women’s World Cup. Varon, a late addition to the squad following an injury to Paula FORERO, was tested on SAT 25 JUN 2011, just two days past her 29th birthday. FIFA did not identify the substance for which Varon tested positive. The announcement comes after the deadline for replacing players, so if the suspension holds, Colombia must make do with only two goalkeepers.

The story as Group C opened was one of victories by the favourites, but still with missed opportunities. more...

The names of the 336 players who will compete at the 2011 Women’s World Cup have been announced, and the list features many well known names, plus a great many who hope to become such by the tournament’s end. At 38, goalkeeper Jenny BINDON of New Zealand is the oldest player named to a roster, whilst Equatorial Guinea’s CHRISTELLE is the youngest of six 16 year olds. 42 players were not yet born when the first Women’s World Cup kicked off in 1991 – though Colombia’s Katerin CASTRO and Nigeria’s Amenze AIGHEWI were both born during it on THU 21 NOV 1991. Christie RAMPONE of the United States has 228 caps, most amongst players selected. Eight players have not yet been capped and will hope to take the pitch during the tournament. In all, 38 players compete professionally in the US’s Women’s Professional Soccer league, including all but one of the US squad. For the first time, a Women’s World Cup will take place without Kristine LILLY, the now retired American legend.