World Cup - Update 5

So we have reached the quarter final stage, a few of my predictions went wrong, Spain winning against France went horribly wrong for example.
Anyways 6 of the 7 winners of the trophy have made it to the last 8 (Uruguay the only team missing; they are missing from the World Cup as well) so that should be a good thing...

Onto what happened in the Round of 16 -

June 24

1. Germany vs. Sweden (2-0): What an awesome display from the Germans. They completely over ran the Swedes in the opening 15 minutes. They are peaking at the right time and look good to go all the way.
2. Argentina vs. Mexico (2-1): Argentina struggled and a similar display against the Germans might be their last in this edition. They need to play better.

June 25

1. England vs. Ecuador (1-0): Very boring performance from the English side, one good moment is all they had to show for. But they will still be backing themselves.
2. Portugal vs. Netherlands (1-0) : What an explosive game. Both teams played with immense passion and ended up going to any length to get the decision in their favour. With Deco out of the next match, and Ronaldo not looking too healthy, it will be very difficult for the Portugal side against England. But they can still do it...I hope.

June26

1. Italy vs. Australia (1-0): And the Oscar goes to...Fabio Grosso. A dubious penalty saw Italy through. Not a very convincing performance, but they will still back themselves to reach the Semi-Final s.
2. Switzerland vs. Ukraine (0-3): First penalty shoot out in this edition. A slow game with little chances created. Swiss couldn't convert anything from the spot and are out of the world cup without conceding a goal. A sad way to go.

June 27

1. Brazil vs. Ghana (3-0): Brazil was stretched all the way, but showed amazing goal scoring ability. Any decent move and an opportunity to score a goal was there for the taking. But still Ghana deserves all the applause for playing some neat football.
2. Spain vs. France (1-3): A shocker for me. Spain went out and they didn't even look like winners. One bad game and out you go. Improved performance from the French side.
   

So what is lined up -

• Germany vs. Argentina: What do I say? Argentina looks better on paper but Germans have been more impressive on the field. 3-2 win for Argentina in extra time will make me happy :).
• Italy vs. Ukraine: I expect a dull game, with the Italians winning.
• England vs. Portugal: England will be confident against an under strength Portuguese side. I still hope Portugal makes it through.
• Brazil vs. France: I expect Brazil to win easily, maybe even reverse the score line from France 98.

I hope football will take centre stage in the next few matches instead of the refrees. I also hope the game will be clean and minus the play acting (the penalty decision in Italy-Aussie game a case in point). Leaves a bad taste really.