The Final 16

Germany 2 Sweden 0
Germany have been going about their business quietly and find themselves in the quarter-finals without much fuss. So far they have not really been stretched in their 4 matches thus far. But they face 'almighty'Argentina in the next round.

Argentina 2 Mexico 1
After their 6-0 mauling of Serbia and Montenegro, Argentina were expected to set the World Cup alight. What we got was an Argentina who were unable to break down the Netherlands in their final group game, and who struggled to comes to terms with Mexico for much of their match. Somehow I think they are over-rated after that singular performance in their second group match. I forsee Germany finallysending them packing in the quarters.

England vs Ecuador
A match on paper that England should win comfortably. But Ecuador were not even expected to get this far. With 2 wins on the trot before finally caving in to the host, Ecuador have shown they are not here just to make up the numbers. England have lost their main striker,Michael Owen, so it will be interesting to see how England react. Another determining factor in this match would have to be the weather. With searing heat expected, it could play into the hands of the Ecuadorians.

Prediction: England 2 Ecuador 0

Portugal vs Netherlands
The Netherlands should nick this one. They have shown thus far they have quality in every position and should outclass the poor portuguese.

Prediction: Portugal 1 Netherlands 3

Italy vs Australia
Australia have shown a never-say-die spirit in all their matches. I much rather see them go through to the next round than boring, boring Italy.

Prediction: 2-2 after normal and extra time. Italy win the ensuing penalty shootout.

Switzerland vs Ukraine
A match which I do not really care for either way.But I had to pick one, then the Ukraine only because one of the great strikers, Andreiy Shevchenko, in their team.

Prediction: Switzerkand 0 Ukraine 1

Brazil vs Ghana
Ghana are the only african team left flying their flag in this round. As m as I admire the Brazillian style, I would rather see an upset here as the overpaid Samba kings get brought down to earth. But as we saw from their game against Japan, Brazil are slowly but surely coming into a good vein of form.

Prediction: Brazil 4 Ghana 2

Spain vs France
France made some inroads in their last group match that they were back on track and booked a ticket into the next round. Spain on the other hand have shown championship potential so far and could indeed go all the way. But they have flattered to deceive before.

Prediction: Spain 3 France 2