All set for the Quarters

We can look forward to some gritty matches as the world cup heads towards the quarter finals of Brasil 2014; The draws look sensational.

To start us of we have France - Germany. Enough said. If we make the assumption that both these teams will come to play at their best, then this should be a cracking match. A match I believe Germany will win.

Not many may agree with my choice, considering Germany found it particularly hard to find the net in their round of 16 match versus Algeria. What a game that was! Too often, especially in the first half, Germany was left floundering with fast-paced and precise movements by the Algerians. The second half of the game saw a more settled team effort by Germany and their continuous energy and perseverance in extra time won the the match for them. Algeria were inspiring, much like their game against Russia, they came out with all guns blazing and obviously made the game tantalising. Their counter attack pace surpassed runs by the Netherlands team and brought to mind the dangerous Ribery! Neuer in goal was thunderously brave, or stupendously lucky - either way his runs, time and time again, out of the goal area were stunning. Where was the German defence? It looked like a one-man army, in defence. And all credit to the Algerian goalie, as well, for the number of shots saved!

I only watched the first half of the France - Nigeria game. And while it was a high energy game, Nigeria put France in their place. The ball had the most excitement in that game, passes from both teams were wanting - each would win the ball to give it away tastelessly! But from discussions with many, I understand that the game was much better in the second half. One of the reasons I pick Germany over France is simply because I don't believe France has been tested this world cup. Their opponents so far have been average - thus their better performance. Against Nigeria, we saw them struggle. Whatever the scoreline in the first quarter final, the match is bound to be pulsating.

The next quarter final match is a thriller, Brazil - Colombia. What a world cup Colombia have had. So far, they are the team that have played flawlessly. It is no wonder that the golden boot belongs to, the now famous, James (Read Hames) Rodriguez. Colombia's round of 16 match was the most straight-forward game in the entire round. The team is playing as one unit with consistent and accurate passes. Their play is flowing and one can find very little fault with their game. 

Brazil on the other hand has had a series of tough games, the toughest being the quarter final. Apart from nerves, Brazil does have to work on closing lapses in concentration that have cost them a few goals. It will also be good to see some consistency from the players: After a brilliant first game, Oscar has been quiet, Hulk has been hulking in the corner and only came to life in the match versus Chile, when he was brilliant. The two consistent players have been Thiago Silva and Neymar. I think with a little more focus in midfield and defence, and a persistent attack, Brazil will be in the semis. 

In the other pool, we start off with lucky Netherlands taking on a tough looking Costa Rica. Netherlands did not deserve to win their quarter final. This may sound harsh, but it is a fact, Arjen Robben ought to be ashamed. I read an article that read, "Robben: we are on a mission" and the first thing that came to my mind was, yeah, you are on a mission: a falling one! I suppose this critique sounds harsh, but who cares? I hope Costa Rica pulls a shocker and tosses the Netherlands out! 

And finally, Argentina take on gritty Belgium. Whoa! Belgium? World cup quarter final? Who would've believed it? Anyone who has been watching them over the last year or so! I would like to say that Argentina will win this one easily. But I can't. Belgium have played a technically sound game this world cup. They haven't had the most dramatic, flamboyant or high energy games, but they sure have got somethings right. This should be an interesting game to watch. If Argentina score early, I believe they will secure their berth at the Brasil 2014 semi final! 

My hopes (with a little logic applied) for the semi finals: Brazil - Germany, Argentina - Netherlands. Hopefully, the two South American teams face-off at the finale. I think having Netherlands in the final would be ugly! It would also be an ugly final without Brazil!!!

I say again, go Brazzzzzzzzzziiiillllll! :)