Silvia Neid Germany’s woman football coach.

AFP/Winnipeg, Canada

Silvia Neid has warned that Germany will show no mercy to their Thai opponents as they chase a last 16 berth on their way to a third title at the Women’s World Cup.
The world’s top team take on debutants Thailand in their final group game in Winnipeg Stadium on Monday needing to win and score goals to ensure they finish top of Group B.
“Mercy is a funny term,” said German coach Neid when asked if they would show the same ruthlessness as in their 10-0 defeat of Ivory Coast in their opener.
“Of course we want to show mercy but not when you’re in a soccer match in a World Cup. All your thinking about is to seize the opportunities you have.
“In the end it’s about feeling self-confident after the game and going into the next game being in the round of 16.
“We are one of the favourites but there are many other countries who can win the World Cup.
“Nobody was able to predict that France would lose against Colombia, that shows that you can never tell, you have to be prepared for every match.”
Germany followed on from their Ivory Coast rout by being held 1-1 by former champions Norway.
Norway have four points after two games and can rack up goals when they play the Ivory Coast in their final group game in Moncton.
Thailand, ranked 29th, beat the Africans 3-2 and have three points.  
“There is no reason to underestimate the Thai team,” warned Neid.
“They are very good soccer players and technically very skilled, they have what it takes to be a good team. We will be very focussed going into this match.”
Germany’s under-19 team last played Thailand in 2004.
“That’s a long time ago,” said Neid. “I think Thailand have developed their game and they deserve to be here.”
And Thailand coach Nuengruethai Sathongwien warned: “We didn’t bring fear with us in our baggage, but determination and pride.  
“Our main drawback is that we’re smaller and shorter than the Europeans. Germany is one of the top teams, with skills and experience, our main experience is at Asian level.
“We’re just proud to be up against the number one team in the world. We’re ready to take our chances and win.”
NEID SWANSONG  
Germany’s women are looking to emulate their men’s World Cup success as Neid’s side aim to mark her swansong with a third world crown in 12 years.
“I am enjoying this tournament because it is my last World Cup,” said the 51-year-old ex-midfielder, who was involved in World Cup wins in 2003 and 2007, as well as the European title in 1997, 2001, 2005, 2009 and 2013.
“Of course there is some stress because you still have to follow up on the last game and prepare the next, but I enjoy it more, I really relish every single day.”
Germany have a number of injuries to deal with as midfielder Simone Laudehr has a slight abdominal tear and striker Alexandra Popp a knee problem.
But midfielder Melanie Leupolz is available after recovering from a bruised bone.
“Melanie is doing very well, she will play tomorrow,” said Neid.
“We’re putting a lot of our hope in her in the first 15 minutes. We want to show the Thai team it will be difficult to score against us and to score a goal as soon as possible.”