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GROUP A:
Pre-tournament pick:
Current pick:
Ecuador v Senegal (15:00, ITV)
This all hinges on the fitness of Enner Valencia. If he’s fit, I think Ecuador will be able to get something out of this and qualify in 2nd Place. Otherwise, I think they will fall at the last hurdle, and Senegal will edge it. I’ve been very impressed with Ecuador, but unfortunately without their talisman I can see them tripping up.
Prediction: Ecuador 1-2 Senegal
Netherlands v Qatar (15:00, ITV)
The Netherlands have got results without playing particularly well, and this game is a real chance for them to boost their confidence. Barring a complete catastrophe, they are through, and they’re likely to face USA or Iran in the knockouts. They could make a relatively deep run to the quarterfinals, and maybe even beyond.
Qatar got their first goal against Senegal, but it was another disappointing performance. They’ve had a dismal world cup while their neighbours Saudi Arabia have stolen the spotlight. I don’t think it’ll get any better here.
Prediction: Netherlands 3-0 Qatar
GROUP B:
Pre-tournament pick:
Current Pick:
England v Wales (19:00, BBC)
Anything can happen. We know that. Can wales beat England 4-0? Likely no. They must win. England are probably through whatever, unless they lose 4-0. I can see Wales getting a narrow win here, but will that be enough? They need Bale, Ramsey and Kieffer Moore to step up. England have the quality, but do they have the heart and the desire that these Welsh players will have, having missed out on a World Cup for 64 years. They might not play in another world cup. I think they’ll give it everything, and MAYBE it will all come together for them.
Prediction: England 2-3 Wales
Iran v USA (19:00, BBC)
Iran likely only need a draw. Should they play for a draw? Personally, I think they should let the USA take the game to them and hit them on the break. Do the USA have the quality to break down an Iranian low block? I don’t think it’s certain. However, I think this could backfire. If Iran play for a draw, and get a draw, as I think they will, it could yet backfire. This could be a crazy evening.
Prediction: Iran 0-0 USA
GROUP C:
Pre-Tournament Pick:
Current Pick:
France v Tunisia (15:00, BBC)
Tunisia still technically have a chance to qualify. To do that, they need to beat France, but they also probably need to score a goal, as they haven’t scored one yet in this World Cup. I don’t think they’ll score here. France have looked great, and will probably face one of Poland, Mexico and Saudi Arabia in the Quarters. I’m backing them for a semifinal finish – although if they get Argentina in the Round of 16 then they will probably make an early exit.
Prediction: France 2-0 Tunisia
Australia v Denmark (15:00, BBC)
Australia just need a draw. To get to the Round of 16. Who would have thought that that would be possible? They are so close to one of the biggest shocks of the World Cup. However, Denmark are the better team. I can easily see a Danish win by multiple goals, but they haven’t been super convincing. If Australia can nab another early goal, they might have a chance, but ultimately I just can’t see them keeping a clean sheet, and I can’t see them scoring two. I think it’ll be heartbreak for the Socceroos.
Prediction: Australia 0-3 Denmark
GROUP D
Pre-tournament pick:
Current Pick:
Saudi Arabia v Mexico (19:00, BBC)
Saudi Arabia have looked good. They played well against Poland and were unlucky to lose. I have a lot of time for their coach Hervé Rènard’s football philosophy. Mexico have been underwhelming so far, and just don’t have that cutting edge. Hopefully Jimenez can provide it. I don’t think he will, and I see another shock here.
Prediction: Saudi Arabia 1-0 Mexico
Argentina v Poland (19:00, BBC)
Another must-win for Argentina. If Saudi Arabia win, a draw won’t be enough. Fortunately for them, I think they will win. It’ll be tough against a Polish side yet to concede in this World Cup, but I think they will do it.
Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Poland
Article Writer - LexaNews Journalist
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