What a World Cup this has been so far! From the defending champions of Germany being eliminated in the group stage to other favorites such as Argentina, Portugal and Spain losing in the knockout round, this has been a tournament unlike many others of recent memory. We now have eight teams fighting to continue their path to glory and bring pride to their respected countries. Let’s look at every matchup and I will give my predictions for each of the victors.
Uruguay v. France
France wins 3-1
Uruguay has proven to have arguably the best defense of all of the countries left in this World Cup and have a decent enough attack to make some noise offensively. Despite all this, they have yet to face a team with the talent and depth of this young French squad and I anticipate them having a hard time containing those goal hungry forwards and wingers. France should win this game by a fairly comfortable two-goal margin.
Brazil v. Belgium
Brazil wins 3-2
This high scoring affair will consist of the FIFA ranked number 2 (Brazil) and 3 (Belgium) clubs in the world, that are both seen as potential favorites by many to win it all. As seen in previous games for both squads, these teams are prone to conceding a few goals in a single game, and I believe this will be no different. Brazil through world class attackers such as Neymar, Coutinho, and Gabriel Jesus and Belgium through Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne, and Eden Hazard, will each be looking for plenty of goal-scoring opportunities. These top of the line players will most likely capitalize on these chances than not, as well. Brazil will ultimately prevail by a sliver when it’s all said and done though, as their experience supersedes that of their opponents.
Sweden v. England
England wins 2-1
The England hype is reaching an insane level amongst soccer fans worldwide. The Three Lions just defeated a bitter Colombian side in a penalty shootout, which marked the first time their country has won a game in penalties at the World Cup. I see them riding this momentum into the semis by beating an underrated Swedish side that has quietly marched themselves into contention.
Russia v. Croatia
Croatia wins 2-1
The Croats are looking to continue on their journey to the final, as it is definitely within reach, especially on their side of the bracket. They go up against a Russian side that is still celebrating over their upset victory over Spain in penalties. Croatia will have to work hard for this win, as they will have the crowd massively against them, with Russia being the host nation and I can’t rule out the possibility of this game going into extra time.