Chris Maduewesi
Member
As expected,Brazil and Germany overcame Colombia and France respectively to qualify,but today four other countries will be battling it out for just two slots into the next stage.
There were no extra times in the games played on Friday,but there is a possibility that it could be witnessed in the ones taking place on Saturday.
Two of the remaining four teams will be fighting to make history today and get past this stage that they have never done before.
Which all but sets up a nice game on the horizon,but then the other two countries seen as favourites,would be hoping to end their drought and achieve something.
Matches to be played:
* Argentina vs Belgium
* Netherlands vs Costa Rica
This game will arguably be Argentina's biggest test so far in the competition. They have strutted their way into this stage of the competition and they will need that luck if they are to go through.
But Belgium have shown that they can be patient to break down their opposition.
Not having lost a game,Belgium have left it late to win matches mainly because of the tactical substitutions coming from their bench.
Argentina on their part don't seem to have a plan B,only plan A: everything revolves around Lionel Messi.
If other Argentine players don't step up the plate then there could be problems for them as a compact Belgian side would rattle them.
Netherlands vs Costa Rica:
A fearless Costa Rica team will be taking on the Dutch team looking to take another scalp at this tournament.
Wins against Italy and Uruguay have shown that other big teams should be scared of playing them.
And their goalkeeper Keylon Navas has been impressive in goal helping them to get to this stage.
But then,Holland already knows that this is an easy route for them to get to the semifinal,however they will underrate Costa Rica at their own peril.
Joel Campbell and Bryan Ruiz are players who can hurt teams and they have shown it in this competition.
But the firepower of the Dutch attack should be able to see them trouble Costa Rica's defense.
Tactical battles:
* Marc Wilmots vs Alejandro Sabella
Players to watch:
* Lionel Messi (Argentina)
* Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
* Robin Van Persie (Netherlands)
*Joel Campbell (Costa Rica)
Predictions:
Argentina haven't really shown that they can sparkle without Messi orchestrating the chase. It is going to be difficult for them pinning everything on him.
On the hand,Belgium is more of a team and can call on their bench to do the magic for them.
Meanwhile Costa Rica will be hoping to continue their fairy-tale run in the competition. It will be difficult for them containing an attacking team like Holland,especially difficult now that a key defender,Duarte is suspended .
So Belgium and Holland to make the semifinal of the competition.
