The Quarters

As the World Cup nears its last 10 matches, there are some mouth-watering encounters in the offing...

Germany vs Argentina - Repeat of 90 WC finals

They are by far the best 2 teams in this edition of the World Cup and this match is the first final of this World Cup. Both the teams have good attacking skills and play to their strengths. I would like to see how Germany will play when they go a goal behind. That scenario is yet to be seen so far so it should bring some really interesting tactics from the experienced Pekerman and energetic Klinsmann. What Argentina have that Germany doesnt are their reserves. Look at Messi (who might start) & Tevez...
Verdict: Toughest one but I will go with Argentina 3:2 or 2:1

Italy vs Ukraine - Easy for Italy

Though I felt bad for Australia as it was not a penalty, the way Australia played for around 40 minutes without even haing good shots on goal, I thought Italy deserved to win. And what a penalty it was...You cannot place it better. It seems Italy is the side in which the substitutes have scored the maximum goals for any country in the WC. Proven yet again by Totti who came in as a sub. I think the Italians who have seen enough and more of Shevchenko will be able to decipher him easily.
Verdict: Easy one for Italy 2:0

England vs Portugal - Scary repeat for the English

Before I say anything about the teams, here is a funny bit from the Guardian
"Now that Portugal have done the World Cup a favour by removing the tournament's most cynical team, many neutrals will be hoping that they can repeat the trick by eliminating a group of players who, alone among the seeded nations, appear to have brought nothing to the party except their wives and girlfriends."

Ok on the match, I think England will again pull in a goal or two and get away with this one. Without Deco, many yellow carded players (incldg Figo) and injured Ronaldo, I dont think this team is good enough to win against England.
Verdict: England should wrap this one 1:0

Brazil vs France - Repeat of 98 WC finals

An improved French team against a slowly improving but lucky Brazil. Well Zidane, Ribery, Viera and gang might find it a little difficult in this match to score the goals. We might not see Zidane and Ronaldo in a World Cup again. Zidane's goal was much much better than any that Ronaldo put in. I think an ageing side like France, however good they are might struggle against the Brazilians.

Verdict: Brazil will win 2:0