FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals Preview
We’re down to 8 as the World Cup quarterfinals kick off tomorrow with Uruguay vs France and Brazil vs Belgium after that.
This World Cup has been surprising to say the least. Italy, Netherlands, and the US didn’t even qualify. We lost Germany in group stage. And England is finally playing like we know England can. Russia is on a dream run after eliminating Spain in penalties in the round of 16 and Croatia followed suit after they did the same to Denmark.
Uruguay vs. France
Luis Suarez vs. the fierce attacking core of France. However; according to ESPN, Uruguay will be missing Edinson Calvani after he was injured in their round of 16 win vs. Portugal.
Calvani was helped off the pitch by Cristiano Ronaldo after injuring his calf in the 2nd half. And with Calvani reportedly out vs. France, Uruguay and the world will look upon Luis Suarez to see if he can get them past France.
Brazil vs. Belgium
The most winning team in history Brazil take on one of Europe’s best in Belgium. Brazil have a 43% chance to win this game outright according to Google. They will not have midfielder Casemiro as he picked up his 2nd yellow card in their match vs Mexico and he’ll serve a 1 game suspension.
Brazil must do something that they haven’t done since 2002 if they want to keep their dreams alive, and that’s beat a European team in an elimination game.
Russia vs. Croatia
The host nation is in the final 8 after many thought they wouldn’t even make it out of group stage. Croatia looking to really make a name for themselves after making another run in the World Cup. Google has given Croatia a 44% to win over Russia and surely Russia doesn’t mind playing the underdog yet again.
Russia have never beaten Croatia as they drew twice and lost once. Both teams are 100% with no injuries or cards to be concerned about. This match has the potential to be one of the most intriguing in World Cup recent memory.
Sweden vs. England
England has a 51% chance to win according to Google and they look to solidify themselves as a soccer powerhouse yet again. Sweden advanced over Switzerland 1-0 and England advanced over Colombia in penalties.
Sweden defender Mikael Lustig will serve a one game suspension after picking up a booking in the Switzerland match. Harry Kane looks stronger than ever in this World Cup and England looks to him to give England only their 2nd World Cup.
My Picks
France OVER Uruguay 3-1 FT
Belgium OVER Brazil 2-1 AET
Russia OVER Croatia 1-1 PEN (5-4)
England over Sweden 2-1 FT
–Brian Berard (@RockyBerard)