The Top Flight
Fansided

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

By Orri Benatar

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: Paul Pogba of France reacts followingthe 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Denmark and France at Luzhniki Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 26: Paul Pogba of France reacts followingthe 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Denmark and France at Luzhniki Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 2
Next

Spain 4-1 Russia

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

This will be Spain’s chance to prove they can make the final out of the easier half of the bracket. Russia was outclassed against Uruguay and will get outclassed again by Spain. The best hope for Russia is more mistakes from the veteran players like Iniesta and Pique.

Spain will be dominant and Hierro will lead them to the last eight.

Croatia 2-1 Denmark (AET)

EPL players in this match: 6 (5 from Denmark)

Croatia had the most impressive group stage and are now everyone’s pick to make a deep run. They play against an unconvincing Danish team that still finished unbeaten in Group C. I think Denmark’s defense is enough to take this game to an extra 30 minutes.

Croatia will be too much to handle as Modric and Rakitic will outperform Christian Eriksen. Croatia will finally win a knockout game and make the final eight.

Sweden 1-1 Switzerland (Sweden wins on Pens)

EPL players in this match: 3 (2 from Switzerland)

The fact that Sweden or Switzerland are gonna make the quarterfinals is magnificent. It will be nice to get a new face in the mix of things. Switzerland will have a tough time with no Lichtsteiner or Schar in the line-up for them. Sweden’s attack isn’t exactly amazing either so I’m picking a shootout.

Sweden will win the shootout and be my ‘upset’ pick in the Round of 16. Their organization is unmatched and they can make a little run in Russia.

Colombia 2-1 England (AET)

EPL players in this match: 25 (22 from England)

This is the hardest match-up to pick. Football is not coming home. Sorry England. I think Colombia’s defense can shut down Harry Kane and the midfield for Colombia is way better than England’s, even if James Rodriguez doesn’t play. I think England will tie it late and take it to extra time. Before they can lose on penalties, Colombia will win in extra time.

Back to the quarterfinals for Los Cafeteros as England leave early once again.

Next: Re-signing Fellaini a mistake by Man United

Home/World Cup