The 2014 FIFA World Cup has been one of the best in more than a decade. There have been goals, controversy, upsets and routs, with two weeks left to play.
There was everything and more in the group stages, but now it’s time for the real action to begin.
It’s already certain that at least one South American nation will be in the semi-final, and Spain’s exit means a new winner will be crowned.
Brazil versus Chile (June 29, 2am AEST)
Overview
Brazil are slowly growing into the tournament, led by the talents of Neymar, but they are yet to hit top form.
Their opener against Croatia resulted in a fortuitous 3-1 win, while they struggled in a 1-1 draw with Mexico. They ran riot against Cameroon, though the African side didn’t put up much opposition and the result just served to paper over the cracks.
Their defence is still a major concern, with David Luiz in particular susceptible to mistakes.
Chile have been hot and cold in this World Cup, but have shown they can match it with the best. They beat Australia 3-1, and followed that performance with a masterful 2-0 defeat of Spain. They were neck-and-neck with Holland for most of their final group match before succumbing to two late goals. Their fluid formation will cause Brazil problems, they just need to convert their chances.
Key Players
Brazil – Neymar, Thiago Silva, Oscar
Chile – Alexis Sanchez, Gary Medel, Jorge Valdivia
Bottom line
Both sides like playing on the counter, and this match should feature end-to-end action filled with goals.
Prediction
Brazil 3-2
Colombia versus Uruguay (June 29, 6am AEST)
Overview
Colombia are one of the form teams of this World Cup, having easily dispatched Greece, Japan and the Ivory Coast. They have scored nine goals and conceded just twice, showing their impressive qualification run was no fluke.
Colombia have also dealt with the loss of star man Radamel Falcao, with James Rodriguez, Jackson Martinez and Teofilo Gutierrez providing plenty in attack.
Uruguay, on the other hand, have produced some ordinary performances so far. They lost to Costa Rica and had to rely on the brilliance of Luis Suarez to beat England and the referee to defeat Italy.
Suarez has been banned for nine matches for biting Giorgio Chiellini too, meaning a berth in the quarter finals is a tough ask. Diego Forlan could be the man to step up in his absence.
Key Players
Colombia – James Rodriguez, Teofilo Gutierrez, Mario Yepes
Uruguay – Edinson Cavani, Egidio Arevalo, Diego Forlan
Bottom line
Colombia’s electric attack and colossal defence should see them through against a Suarez-less Uruguay side.
Prediction
Colombia 3-1
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