World Cup Quarterfinals - Previews and Predictions
In any large-scale tournament, the desire for a Cinderella Story is always there. Unfortunately, Cinderella didn’t get invited to the World Cup. Seven out of the eight winners of group play advanced past the round of 16, the only squad left out, of course, was the U.S. That means it’s down to the final eight, the quarterfinals of the biggest stage in all of sports, but how does it all break down? Here’s a quick look, along with some predictions from me and NBC 4 Sports intern Tanner (HUGE soccer fan) of what to expect from each game.
Brazil vs. Netherlands (Friday, 10:00 a.m.)
It’s very probable that this will be the most entertaining and inciting of the four games to watch. Pairing the explosive Brazilian style of offense and the likes of Luis Fabiano and Kaká with the “total football” style of the Dutch, who sport a newly invigorated midfielder in Robben and a seasoned scorer with Robin Van Persie. Both teams have the ability to play a possession game for the full 90 minutes, but I wouldn’t expect it. Brazil has shown that they aren’t content to sit back and let the game come to them, but would rather attack and keep the defense on their heels. The Netherlands have been known to fall apart in years past because of egos and selfish play, and that seems to be coming back. Van Persie forced head coach Bert van Marwijk to call a team meeting after he complained about being subbed in their 2-1 win over Slovakia. Van Marwijk asked for team unity, and if the Dutch can pull it together, be prepared to see a showcase of skill.
Matt: BRAZIL 2, NETHERLANDS 1
Tanner: NETHERLANDS 2, BRAZIL 1
Ghana is the last hope for Africa, it’s that simple. After the win over the U.S. Ghana could experience a bit of a fall off due to such an emotional game, and Uruguay has been solid throughout the tournament. Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan has been the spark for the Black Stars, but injured his ankle in training, and despite reports the he will play, the ankle could become a problem if he tweaks it during the match. Luis Suárez has done it all for Uruguay, and expect to see more of the same. The forward has three goals and one assist, and isn’t showing any signs of slowing up. Expect to see a lot of possession go in favor of Uruguay, but don’t count out the Black Stars just yet. The crowd will be behind Ghana, trying to fuel their “home town team” to the win and send an African squad on to the Cup’s semifinals.
Matt: URUGUAY 2, GHANA 0
Tanner: GHANA 1, URUGUAY 1 (GHANA ADVANCES IN PKS)
Two consistent powerhouse teams should lead to a great game, right? Exactly. Germany is coming off a 4-1 domination of England, riding an emotional high after somewhat of an unexpected boring performance in the group stage. Argentina, on the other hand, has looked like a demolition derby car, running over everything in its path. Fueled by head coach Diego Maradona’s borderline “crazy” tactics, the South American nation has looked nearly unbeatable since taking the field in South Africa. Lionel Messi is a pending weapon any time he touches the ball, with Carlos Tevez and Gonzalo Higuaín up top, causing havoc and pressuring the ball for the full 90 minutes. For Germany, Miroslav Klose will need to come alive in his forward position and mix things up in Argentina’s defensive third. One foreseeable issue for Germany, Argentina has only allowed two goals in the Cup, and with a win, the blue and white are one step closer to seeing their head coach streak through the streets.
Matt: ARGENTINA 3, GERMANY 1
Tanner: ARGENTINA 2, GERMANY 0
Spain looked in top form against Portugal, with doesn’t bode will at all if you’re a Paraguay fan. David Villa has played up to and beyond expectations, netting four goals so far in the Cup, including the decisive one that advanced his squad into the quarterfinals. Paraguay has emotional excitement on their side, giving viewers the first penalty shootouts of the World Cup, advancing on a missed shot from the Japanese that bounced off the crossbar. Xavi and the Spanish midfield corps have controlled the pace of every game since opening game loss to Switzerland. Carlos Puyol anchors the Spain defense, and does it very well, especially against Portugal, keeping Cristiano Ronaldo in check for the entire game. Paraguay might need something just short of a miracle if they want to advance, but never doubt a team that has the Big Mo on their side.
Matt: SPAIN 2, PARAGUAY 0
Tanner: SPAIN 3, PARAGUAY 1
