It’s quarterfinal day one in South Africa at the 2010 World Cup, as Brazil and the Netherlands kick things off in the first match of the day, while Uruguay and Ghana will square off after that. Then tomorrow, it’s Germany and Argentina, and Spain and Paraguay. It’s an exciting lineup that should feature some awesome games for soccer/football fans, especially considering what is on the line for these teams.
With that being said, let’s dish out some quick predictions for the games:
Brazil vs. Netherlands
As I’ve mentioned…..oh around 827 times since the start of the World Cup…..Brazil was my pick before this tournament started, and there’s nothing that makes me feel like I should go against that pick. Actually, I was set to pick the Netherlands to win it all, but then Arjen Robben picked up the injury, and we were unsure if he would even be a factor in South Africa. Well, he’s back now, and this game should be fun to watch. Robben’s team has what it takes to knock off Brazil, and nothing would surprise me in this one. Still though, I like Brazil to move on.
Prediction: 3-2, Brazil
Uruguay vs. Ghana
Considering the other contests in this round, this may not be the sexiest matchup, but it does feature two sides that could both beat any team left on any given day. But only one can advance to the semifinals, and right now, I’ve gotta say that team will be Ghana. Yep, Ghana. You’ll recall a few days ago where I said that Uruguay was the better team and would advance. Well, I’m changing my mind. There’s just something I like about this Ghana team. I like the way Richard Kingson is playing in goal right now, and if Kevin Prince-Boateng and Asamoah Gyan aren’t limited too much by their respective injuries, they’ll be a game-changers. While everyone else might be taking Uruguay, I’m going with Ghana.
Prediction: 2-1, Ghana
Germany vs. Argentina
Another final-like feel to a quarterfinal game, as this one should feature quite a bit of scoring chances for both teams. This will undoubtedly be the most exciting game to watch in this round, and one that could go either way. Diego Maradona‘s squad has yet to be challenged a great deal, but that’s going to change here. They haven’t faced a team with the goal-scoring ability like Germany, so it’ll be interesting to see how their defense holds up. While all the talk has been on the lack of scoring by Lionel Messi in this tournament, I don’t think that’s the main storyline here. It will be all about the defense for both teams. It’s going to be intriguing to see which defense holds up better. I really like Germany’s team, but I just feel like Argentina is the better overall squad. This one goes to penalty kicks though, and the Maradona streaking possibility still exists after this game.
Prediction: 3-3, Argentina on PK’s
Spain vs. Paraguay
Paraguay is a sneaky bunch that cannot be overlooked here. Most people are writing off this team without a second thought, but we’ve gotta remember that Spain can be beaten. Switzerland did it in the group stage, and while it’s not likely, Paraguay can do it here. However, I think Spain’s offensive attack will prove to be too much for the defensive-minded Paraguay team. If Paraguay can control possession early, and play good enough defense to where Spain’s scoring chances are limited in the first half, they’ll have a chance. This one will be closer than most think, but again, it’s hard to argue that Spain will advance into the semifinal round.
Prediction: Spain 2-1
What are your predictions for the quarterfinal games? Let your voice be heard in the comments section below!