I've been meaning to post throughout the last month but time is not on my side.
I've enjoyed watching the USofA but man you've lost most of the midfield battles. Against Belgium they were playing so high up leaving your defence exposed time and time again. Maybe they're used to playing behind Dempsey but without an out an out striker he has to play the line thus pushing to far up. Entertaining to watch though and hats of to Howard. Beckerman gave the midfield better shape.
Now to the important shit.
Brazil vs Colombia
Brazil are not playing well at all. It seems the moment is getting to them. Apparently Neymar plays better with a striker who plays back to goal, which is why Fred is in the team. Too much distance between Neymar, Oscar and Fred. They need to tighten up a bit and lure the defenders out. For the tournament sake they need to win. But I'm tipping Colombia. Team has much better shape and pace. Luiz looks dodgy for Brazil and Colombia's passing and movement will be too much.
Colombia 2-1
France vs Germany
Most difficult 1/4 to pick. Germany play better against Euro opposition. The pace of the game will benefit Germany who haven't been on top of their game but will hit their stride tomorrow. France have impressed me and could exploit a slow German defence. Mertesaker and Benzema will have an interesting time.
Germany 1-0
Argentina vs Belgium
This will be fascinating as Belgium will play football against Argentina thus creating space for Argentina to play. All 4 of Argentina's games they have had to break down a solid defence. This has led to frustrating displays with Messi and Di Maria not having the space to express themselves. Nigeria gave them moments and it was thrilling. Aguero returning will help Messi. Belgium were so wasteful against USA that they can't have another wasteful match. They will test Argentina's defence but I don't expect them to score more than 1.
Argentina 3-1
Netherlands vs Costa Rica
I feel the Netherlands will hit their stride in this match unless CR hit them hard like Mexico and Australia did. CR will have to play the game of their lives to even be in this match. Netherlands defence will be too strong however De Jong missing will be massive. Whoever scores first in this will determine how the game goes. If CR get an early goal this could go all the way to penalties. If Netherlands score first it could be 4-0.
Netherlands 3-0
edit:
Here's a great article on penalties.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/guides/zgg334j
Interestingly the stats on who goes first and the pressure on the final penalty taker have been true for this tournament.
That, and they need to pull him from interviews. He's offered NOTHING, it's Emmitt Smith bad.
