In 2015, the Women’s World Cup will expand from 16 to 24 teams

December 8th, 2009 | by: Melissa | View Comments

Did ya hear the news? So conveniently released one day before last week’s draw. I’m starting to think press folks on the women’s side intentionally make announcements at the exact moment something HUGE happens in the men’s game (WPS does it all the time). In 2015, FIFA will expand the Women’s World Cup from 16 to 24 teams. Pretty exciting news which should indicate the game has progressed in leaps and bounds internationally since the tourney began. FIFA has already had successful U-17 and U-20 World Cups which should pave the way for a flurry of top-quality players available in more countries. And lets not forget countries with less developed programs often court talented American players who have the same heritage. All of this should hopefully prevent lopsided scoring games and tournaments dominated by only a handful of teams. Right? I have no idea but we are all about to find out. If reviewing the scores for the last round of EUFA qualification games is any indication, the answer to that question is – meh, maybe. But by 2015, the women’s Euros, Champions League, Copa Libertadores, etc etc etc will be much more established so I’m gonna remain hopeful with this move.