2014 FIFA World Cup Preview and Predictions: Complete Schedule of July 4 Weekend Quarterfinals
What a tournament this World Cup has been so far.
The 32 best nations in the world have been reduced to just eight deserving nations battling for a chance to claim the top spot in the soccer world. With the round of 16 completed, the quarter-finals will be underway featuring the eight greatest teams in the world facing off in four much anticipated contests:
(2) Germany vs. (17) France
Germany and France kick off this quarterfinals round and what a game it promises to be. Both teams are heavy favorites to win it all this year with just eight teams remaining. Germany is trying to win their fourth World Cup and first since 1990. The German team won Group G after Thomas Müller scored a team leading four goals.
France, on the other hand, narrowly finished ahead of Switzerland in Group E. Karim Benzema has been the best offensive player for this squad in the tournament. Tensions will be running high in Europe as these two soccer-loving countries go on Friday afternoon.
Prediction: France will put up a good fight, but Germany wins 3-2.
These two teams play Friday at 12 p.m. EST on ESPN.
(3) Brazil vs. (8) Colombia
Both Colombia and Brazil were nearly perfect in group play, and advanced past the round of 16. Brazil's only blip was a tie to Mexico in Game 2. In the round of 16, Brazil defeated Chile in a shootout, ending any hopes of a Chile World Cup Final. Brazil is trying to win their sixth World Cup in front of their fans.
Colombia has been a very underrated team in this World Cup. They may have played in a weak Group C, but the team went on to defeat Uruguay 2-0 in the first round. James Rodriguez, 22, has been playing like a star in this Cup so far, with five goals in four games. This could be the best game of the tournament.
Prediction: Brazil with a 2-1 win over Colombia.
These two teams play Friday at 4 p.m. EST on ESPN.
(5) Argentina vs. (11) Belgium
A continental collision between Argentina and Belgium will be played in the capital city of Brasilia. Belgium recently ended any hope of a United States quarterfinals after a 2-1 victory in the first round in extra time. Belgium isn't considered an elite team this year, but they are 4-0 so far in this World Cup. Belgium fans are still waiting for the first World Cup title.
Similar to Belgium, Argentina is also 4-0 after they, too, won a thrilling first round game. Argentina defeated Switzerland in extra time, 1-0, thanks to Angel di Maria. Argentine fans are hoping head coach Alejandro Sabella can deliver a third World Cup title to the country of Argentina.
Prediction: Argentina defeats Belgium 3-1.
These two teams play Saturday at 12 p.m. EST on ABC.
(15) Netherlands vs. (18) Costa Rica
This should be a very interesting matchup between two teams that won their groups.
The Netherlands have been the best offensive team in this World Cup, with 12 goals scored in their four games. Seven different players have scored for the Netherlands, creating a very balanced offensive attack.
With Honduras, Mexico, and the United States all eliminated, Costa Rica is the last remaining hope for North America. Costa Rica is the best defensive team left in the World Cup. The team only allowed one goal in group play and one to Greece in the round of 16. Costa Rica is going to have to ride that defense to the promise land.
Prediction: Costa Rica wins 2-1.
These two teams face off Saturday at 4 p.m. EST on ESPN.
For up-to-date sports news, scores, and more, follow Latin Post Sports on Twitter