We have just had an amazing round of 16, even though all the group toppers have made it to the final eight, it has been exciting, and very unpredictable, and if I may say quite un-knockout round-esque. . I will leave my erstwhile colleague to bask in the afterglow of the previous; I will look on to the future (despite being advised against it by medical professionals). Without further adieu:
France Vs Germany
This match brings to mind classic encounters in the World Cup from the 1980s (and 1880s on non-football related matters). Both sides topped their group, but France definitely had one of the easier groups in the tournament, whereas Germany probably had the toughest. Both sides have plenty of weaknesses, but I have a theory. Since reunification Germany has only won Euro 96 (and that was with a bulk of the 1990 West German side which won the World Cup) and they have been also-rans in both Euros and the World Cup. France on the other hand are a classic Jekyll and Hyde side, you don’t know who will show up, but this tournament we have mostly had the good France.
In short I think West Germany were winners whereas Germany are chokers. France on the other hand are back.
Prediction: France 3 – Germany 2 after extra time, after being 1- 1 at full time.
Brazil Vs Colombia
A South American showdown;. This match which potentially has at the entire balance of power of the COMNEBOL countries at stake. Brazil feel like an old fading hero, with their best days behind them, much like the teams of the 70’s and 80s who flattered to deceive and ended up 24 years without any international success. Colombia on the other hand remind me of the brilliant Argentine sides of the late 70s and 90s, which made three finals out of four tournaments, even without the mercurial Falcao.
Brazil might be fading but at home they may be able to pull out one last gallant attempt at glory, but they will find it hard to go against this Colombian side that finally plays to their potential, and gearing to take their place in the sun.
Prediction: Brazil 2 – Colombia 4 at full time.
Argentina Vs Belgium
A team that played way too defensively are up against a team that doesn’t know (or need to know) how to defend at all. This is the match I am most looking forward to. There may be more to Argentina than Lionel Messi, but let’s face it, that’s like having some extra cherries to go with your delicious delicious Messi flavoured sundae. Every team that has tried to play defensively against Argentina has found to their peril that Messi in his current form and mood is unstoppable. The one team I feel had the best chance of beating them were the Bosnians who met attack with attack.
Belgium have to do the same thing, fortunately for them they have the team that can attack. The question is will their coach play them that way?
Prediction: Argentina 3 – Belgium 2 with the score being 2-2 at full time. The Argentines will concede goals, but they will outscore Belgium.
Netherlands Vs Costa Rica
The tournaments fairy tale side versus, the side who were the 2010 tournament fallen heroes (in the eyes of their fans) trying to redeem themselves (and reclaim their style of football). We all know I am hopelessly biased about this draw, but even the most ardent Tico fan will know they have a real uphill battle given the suspensions and injuries in their squad.
This is the time the Dutch traditionally choke at major tournaments, so their coach Louis Van Gaal will work hard to keep their mind on the game.
Prediction: Netherlands 2 Costa Rica 0 at full time. The Dutch experience at this level will come through, they will be too strong for a depleted Tico squad.
NineSixFourTwo 