World Cup: Round of 16 predictions – Europe’s run continues

The Round of 16 begins tomorrow as we will narrow the field from 16 to 8. We find out who the top dogs are starting now.

Time for some more predictions. But first, here is how I did for the group stage. I was able to correctly predict 13 of the 16 teams in the next round and picked 25 of the 48 results right. My score predictions could have been a lot better since I only got four scores correct. Those were Serbia 1-2 Switzerland, Sweden 1-0 South Korea, South Korea 1-2 Mexico, and Tunisia 1-2 England.

Let’s see if I can beat 50% again for the Round of 16 as I predict the results of every game. In fact, I explained my predictions and more in our latest episode of our ‘Road to Moscow’ podcast. We also picked our favorite moments, players, and games from the group stage.

Uruguay 0-0 Portugal (Portugal wins on Pens)

EPL players in this match: 4 (All from Portugal)

These two teams play very similarly with superstars up front and great centerbacks holding down the fort. Ronaldo has played against Godin and Gimenez a lot in the past five to six seasons and will have to play them again in a big game setting.

Suarez and Cavani will get stopped by Pepe and Fonte as this match goes to penalty kicks. Whenever a shootout happens, I give the edge to the team with the better goalie. Rui Patricio is a master at saving penalties and will lead Portugal to the quarterfinals.

France 2-1 Argentina

EPL players in this match: 9 (5 from France, 4 from Argentina)

Argentina will be able to keep this one close since France’s disciplined style doesn’t spell blowouts. N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba should own the midfield since Argentina doesn’t have one. The only way Argentina can win is if their starting striker performs well. I am expecting Higuain to get the nod.

Messi is facing a team of superstars. France will win but it won’t be as convincing as some expect it to be.

Brazil 2-0 Mexico

EPL players in this match: 7 (6 from Brazil)

For the second straight World Cup, Brazil will play Mexico. This time it’s for a quarterfinal spot and I think Brazil will get it. Mexico hasn’t played a midfielder like Phillipe Coutinho yet and Coutinho can have another Man of the Match performance in Samara.

Brazil will dominate the offense and defend the Mexican counter. It’s gonna be seven straight Round of 16 exits for El Tri. Brazil goes to another quarterfinal.

Belgium 3-0 Japan

EPL players in this match: 12 (10 from Belgium)

The number one team in my power rankings has the easiest match in the Round of 16. Roberto Martinez will put all the starters back in and Belgium will dominate Japan. Japan will create some chances and find space in Belgium’s back three, but they don’t have the quality up front that the Red Devils have.

Another easy Round of 16 opponent for Belgium and a third straight quarterfinal appearance at a major tournament.