Olympics Group F Preview: Japan, Sweden, South Africa, Canada

A Group F preview covering the four teams in Team GB’s neighbouring section. Japan arrive as world champions with Homare Sawa back from illness, new captain Aya Miyama outstanding at the Algarve Cup and Yuki Ogimi in goal-hungry form, though the piece notes no world champion has gone on to win Olympic gold the following year. Sweden’s third-place World Cup finish was followed by dismal results, including a heaviest ever defeat by Germany, but Caroline Seger, Nilla Fischer and Lotta Schelin anchor an experienced squad. South African journalist Velile Mbuli introduces Banyana Banyana at their first international finals under Joseph Mkhonza, profiling Portia Modise, Mpumi Nyandeni, Noko Matlou and captain Amanda Dlamini. Canada’s John Herdman assesses a tough group and hopes Newcastle adopts his side.