Uruguay-Ghana
We saw Uruguay play against South Korea. The Uruguyans have two attacking studs - Forlan and Suarez and their defense is formidable. Two of the Ghanaian players (Ayew and Mensah) picked up yellow cards against the US and will miss this game. Even though most of the people at the stadium will be rooting for Ghana, I think Uruguay will prevail. Uruguay had a easy time with South Africa in the qualifying rounds even though the whole stadium was rooting for the Bafana Bafana. I predict a 1-0 victory for Uruguay.
Brazil-Netherlands
It is too bad that these teams are meeting in the quarterfinals since both teams deserve to be at least in the semifinals. Both teams have been criticized back in their homes for being boring and workmanlike. They are not playing with the same sort of flair that has characterized these teams in the past.
Generally it is foolish to pick against the Brazilians in any World Cup game. But this time, I will go with the Oranje. The Dutch have a well-balanced team. They have a good combination of strong holding midfields (De Jong and Van Bommel) and strong attacking players (Robben, Sneijder, and Persie). Robben will give the Brazilians a lot of trouble. I predict a 2-1 classic Dutch victory.
Germany - Argentina
Wow! These have been the two most entertaining teams in this year's World Cup. The German team has surprised me with their flair and open style of play. The commentators here have made much ado about the fact that this team represents the "new Germany", similar to how people talked about the French team in 1998. They point out that many of the stars on this team are immigrants or second generation Germans. For example, the team features players of Polish, Ghanaian, Turkish, and Tunisian descent. Perhaps people are making a big deal of the ethnic composition of the team because it is Germany. Yet we do not hear the same about the British, American, or French teams. Those who make these comments have obviously not been to Germany recently. Nevertheless, this team does not play like the German teams of old. They have a very good young goalie, a solid defense, exceptional midfielders, and two forwards who tend to score in big games. Ozil is really emerging as one of the stars of the tournament.
Yet this promising and young German team is no match for Argentina. Argentina is on a roll. They have great team spirit and their attacking trio (Tevez, Messi, and Higuain) is one for the ages. I think Argentina will win 3-1.
Spain - Paraguay
Spain is lucky to be meeting Paraguay at this stage. This will be an easy victory for Spain. In addition to their outstanding players, it is remarkable that Spain has only picked up one card in this whole tournament (Alonso got a yellow card against Portugal). So they play exceptionally well and they are also very clean! Spain wins 2-0.
First two predictions have proven correct! Even though I'm in B.A., my host mom is Uruguayan. She dreadfully fears seeing a Uruguay v. Argentina final rounds, as that signifies war.
ReplyDeleteLet's see if you're right about tomorrow's two games!
The German victory was quite convincing though I do not feel that the 4-0 is a good indication of the game. The Argentinians had some great chances and failed to capitalize. Ellen: what is the word on the street in BA? Are they blaming Maradona for the loss?
ReplyDeleteMagnus
Hey Magnus, Chris from the Bank here! It sounds like you and Benni have had a wonderful trip. And did I read that you picked Netherlands and Spain back at the beginning? Well done.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter has watched every match and has become a fan of Spain, though I will be rooting for the Dutch. Enjoy the final and see you soon. Best to Margaret.
Hey Professor, people are furious with Maradona and want him to go... Word on the street-wise, I think people in general consider Maradona one of the favorite, most-esteemed players of the nation, but in terms of personal character everyone knows he's a jerk. But who knows! Before the loss to Germany some news program was featuring a statue/shrine to Maradona further up north in the country, calling it the Church of Maradona. Kind of ridiculous in my opinion, but I'm no diehard fan.
ReplyDeletePlenty of people cried at the loss, though...