FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for the Final

Netherlands vs Spain

After 6 weeks of brutal matches (some what brutal to the viewers as some matches were a torture to go thrugh), we have finally reached the last game of the Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

The finalists here are Netherlands and Spain. Do they deserve to be here? Yes. Have they played the best football to reach the final? No. But they have played better than each of the team they have played against. They have deserved their victories in every game thus far.

Both these teams have the potential to play really good attacking football. But it seems their coaches has made it a point to the players that defensive suties are not to be ignored. Both played well in bits and changed to a higher gear when they needed the win. But they are capable of slowing down the game and frustrating the opponents as well.

The wealth of attacking talent on show tonight is immense. Villa, Torres, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas, Van Persie, Kuyt, Robben, Sneijder are all great attacking talents who deserve to be playing on the biggest stage of world football.

In terms of the offensive side, I think Both are almost equal. On the defnesive side however, Spain has not been really tested. Despite beating Germany and Portugal, both these teams did not play their usual brand of attacking football. They hardly troubled the Spanish defence. The Dutch however, have shown defensive strength, winnign all their qualifying games as well as all World Cup matches till tonight's final.

For midfield strength, I think Spain slightly shades this. Alonso, Xavi and Iniesta. Getting the ball from this trifecta is not going to be easy. For the Dutch to win this game, they MUST stop these 3 players from controlling the game. Pressing them and putting them under pressure so they will lose possession. The Dutch will not be able to beat the Spanish if they cannot get the ball. And this is what happened to Germany and Portugal. 2 attacking teams couldn't play their usual game simply because they were not able to get the ball.

If the Dutch can unsettle these trio, then they have a great chance of winning the game.

For me, I tip Spain to do just enough to beat the Dutch, just like they have done just enough to beat every other team.

Spain to win this 1-0 or 2-1, before penalties.

Although this game will be a battle of the midfield, I'm still crossing my fingers for some end to end football =)

Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction 3rd-4th Placing

Germany vs Uruguay

Most people wouldn't be betting on this match tonight. It's basically a loser's battle.
Well not to say loser lah, they are after all the top 4 teams in the tournament. But usually teams that play in match are usually too gutted about losing in the semis to be motivated for this match.

That being said, both teams should be proud to have reached this far as no1 would have predicted them to reach the semi finals. Both teams have played pretty well in the tournament. I do feel that the Germans would be up for this match as I think they would like to make Miroslav Klose the top scorer in the tournament as well as in the history of the World Cup.

This match will be played in somehwat of a "friendly match" atmosphere and I would not be surprise if the coaches make some changes to let the substitutes have a feel of playing in the World Cup.

Uruguay will be without their inspirational Forlan while Suarez will be back (hopefully, not on goalkeeping duty ;-p). Germans will be at almost full strength once again.

I see the Germans winning this game by playing the same brand of football that has led them to the semi finals. Germany to win this 3-1 or 4-2 (I'm really hoping for a high scoring game as it will entertain the fans. I doubt the final will be an exciting ;-p)


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction Semi Finals #2

Well I'm glad that the Dutch went through to the finals last night. They are the better team last night, despite playing within themselves. They made it difficult for themselves when they conceded the last minute goal, which made the game looked closer than it really should.

I got the score wrong, but at least i got the winning margin correct ;-p

Now on to tonight's game:

Germany vs Spain

Enough about Paul the Octopus picking Spain over Germany. How could you call it orediction when the octopus doesn't know what it is choosing for? Itsnjust choosing food from 2 diff containers, for all it cares.

As a rational human, I shall try to assess this match in a better way than choosing my food.
Germany has reached the semi finals by playing a game which is totally un-Germany like. They have played with lots of pace and flair. Spain, on the other hand, has only played well enough to defeat whichever team that they face. They have not truly played the awesome attacking football we have come to know. That being said, they still are the best possession playing team in the World Cup.

I think Spain has the edge in terms of quality in Midfield, and Germany will have a tough time controlling / dictating play. But what I think Spain doesn't have at the moment is sharpness in front of the goal. Of course David Villa is on fire, but his strike partner is firing blanks. SO that is a bit worrying for them. I am one of the few people who think that Torres should still be starting the game tonight. Simply because he will still make runs, and keep defenders busy, while giving Villa the chance to roam. No team in the world would be silly enough to neglect Torres, on or off form. And I think Fabregas will do well as an impact substitute player.

In Germany, they have a team that can score from almost any player. All players have chipped in with goals. They have scored 4 goals on 3 occaccions already, all of which they have controlled the game. So I do forsee Germany being able to score a goal, but how many goals would depend on how much possession they get.

In terms of quality players, I think Spain would just shade the Germans. In terms of top level matches, the Germans lack experience. I would lean slightly towards the Spaniards. Its a very close call. 1-1 after extra time, with Spain to go thru on penalities. Or 3-2 to Spain.

This game is worthy of being the World Cup final. lets hope it lives up to expectations =)



Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction Semi Finals #1

There is only a single game tonight and I think its gonna be a good match.

Uruguay vs Netherlands

Uruguay and Netherlands both have not conceded many goals in this tournament so far. And both teams have been pretty impressive.

Well by impressive i mean the Dutch have played well enough to beat whatever team that they faced so far in the competition. I do feel that the Dutch can play really really good football and overpower their opponents if they actually played to their true strengths. I'm not the only person who thinks so. I think they are an awesome attacking side. However, they seem to be putting focus on keeping their defence tidy at the same time. Maybe a little too much defensively. But hey, they've won every game so far, so Bert van Marwick has no reason to change his style. I'm looking forward to seeing Robben and Van Persie in full flight tonight.

Uruguay should have won the Ghana game easily but they made it difficult for themselves and almost lost the game if not for Suarez's heroics on the goal line. However, Suarez will be suspended for tonight's game and I don't really think his replacement will be as effective as he was. Diego Forlan will have to shoulder the huge burden and try to get something going for this Uruguayan team.

Looking at the overall team strength, I think the Dutch have a stronger squad. I would think that the Dutch will as usual, do just enough to win this game and not more. Win by a single goal margin. Netherlands to win this 1-0 or 2-1.


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction Quarter Finals #2

Yesterday, Brazil were shocked by the Dutch when they were defeated 2-1. Looking at Brazil's 1st half performance, you would have thought they would go on to win this game 2 or 3 nil. However, their inability to make full use of their dominance cost them the game. The Dutch came into the 2nd half and played more aggressively, giving the Brazillians no time on the ball. And when they got a player sent off, the writing was already on the wall for them. Fair play to Arjen Robben, he was so good and irritating that almost 50% of the Dutch's free kick were resulted from him being fouled.


Uruguay qualified for the next round as expected, but only by the skin of their teeth; on penalties. Luis Suarez, in my opinion, was Uruguay's hero. He showed that he's not only adept at scoring goals, but also stopping goals (His save on the line with his hands would have made his country proud!). No doubt he got a red card and will be suspended from the next game, but he was the reason to why the Uruguayan even survived to make the penalty shootout.


Okay, enough about last night's actions. here are my predictions for tonight:




Argentina vs Germany


Another mouth watering clash between 2 in-form teams. Both teams are extremely talented, and both were not given much hope of winning the tournament. But they have shown that they are a forced to be reckoned with and its unfortunate that one of them has to go home tonight.


The Germans have played attractive attacking football (surprisingly) and Argentina has managed to gel together after going thru a bad qualification round. I think both sides are evenly matched and its hard to seperate these 2. One thing for sure, this game won't end in a 0-0 draw after extra time. I expect goals and I think Argentina will have a little edge over the inexperienced Germans. Argentina to win this 2-1 or 3-1 in normal play. If it goes to penalties, i still think the Argentinians have more experience to see it thru.




Spain vs Paraguay


This game, in my opinion, as well as many others, is the easiest to predict among all 4 quarter final clashes. Spain are in form and they controlled the game very well against the Portuguese, despite winning only 1-0. David Villa is in goal scoring form, and I expect Torres to break the duck in this match. The Paraguayans do not have enough quality, man for man against the Spanish, unfortunately.


It is difficult to imagine the Spanish losing this game, and if it does, it will be as big of a shock as their defeat to Switzerland was 2 weeks back.


Spain to win this by at least 2 goals. 2-0 or 3-1






Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction Quarter Finals

Its gonna be short and sweet. Dont have too much time before i head out to gym and catch the game thereafter.

Netherlands vs Brazil

Both sides with tonnes of attacking qualities but have so far held back as they were very disciplined in defence. I wont expect many goals out of this match but I feel BRazil are a better team all round compared to the Dutch.

Brazil to win this by the odd goal. 1-0 or 2-1 to BRazil. There might even be a chance for this game to go into extra time.


Uruguay vs Ghana

This game looks pretty straight forward to me. Although the rest of Africa will have thier hopes on Ghana, I feel that this is as good as they can get. They didn't really play much good football. Just barely enough to qualify. Whereas Uruguay are in red hot form. Scored plenty of goals with Forlan and Suarez chipping in and have conceded few goals.

Uruguay to win this by 2 goals. 2-0 or 3-1





Lets hope for a night of great football!!








Boodyboy, out!!!!

B O O D Y B L O G: FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Round of 16 #4

I could have almost gotten the Netherlands vs Slovakia score right. If only they didnt concede the last minute penalty. The Dutch performed to my expectations and duly deserved their victory.

The Brazil vs Chile game was easy to predict as well. Nothing too challenging for the Brazillian team. They will definitely face a stiffer test against the Dutch next round.

TOnight's games:

Paraguay vs Japan

Paraguay emerged as surprise group winners but the truly deserved their place with good attacking football. However, they do not have the goals to show for it. Same can be said with Japan. They were not expected to do well as they lost form just before the World Cup, but they played some enterprising football for the past 2 weeks. They have great set piece takers and Paraguay should not concede fouls near the penalty box.

While I truly hope for Japan to go thru, i think Paraguay has the firepower to beat the Japanese. This match might go to extra time with Paraguayans edging this by a goal. 1-0 or 2-1


Spain vs Portugal

Match of the Knockout round. Also match of the tournament so far. Since the Portugal vs Brazil match was a farce to watch. THis should be good for neutral fans as it is the knockout rounds. 2 attacking minded teams with lots to prove. Europeans Champs Sapin will now try to live up to their favourite tags in this game while Portuguese does not want to go home so early, not by losing to their neighbours.

I expect a freeflowing football from both sides and hopefully goals galore. Hopefully Torres will find his goal scoring form in this game. This game is too difficult to predict as I think both teams are evenly matched on their day.

2-1 to Spain or 4-2.


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Round of 16 #3

Predicted the Argentina – Mexico game right. It was a pretty good match and after 4 2nd round matches, the quality of the matches has improved tremendously. Nobody is complaining about the ball now. The ball has been and will always be an excuse for poor performance.

The England game was a shocker. Some people have claimed that it is no surprise since England has not played well at all in the World Cup. While I know that to be a fact, I was surprised at how naïve the English players were. They were caught on the counter attack numerous times and 3 of the goals they conceded were from counter attacks.

I get that you must chase the game when you are a goal or 2 down, but that doesn’t mean that the other team will just sit back all the time and wait for wave and waves of attacks to come in. The defence literally went to sleep when England were attacking. Kudos to Germany though, they played precision, sharp and quick football. Much like German technology ;-p

On to tonight’s match predictions!


Brazil vs Chile

Brazil have beaten Chile in the previous 2 meetings. Both are good attacking teams but I feel that Brazil would have fresher players after resting several players in their last group game against Portugal.

Robinho, Elano, Kaka all will return to the team tonight and I think that Brazil will have too much for Chile to handle. While Brazil have not been the best defensive team, Dunga has so far been able to keep it tight at the back. Chile will have to work really hard tonight just to break the Brazillian defence.

Brazil to win this by 2 goals. 2-0 or 3-1


Holland vs Slovakia

The Slovakians are the surprise package from the team which consisted of Paraguay and Italy. They comfortably beat the very poor Italians 3-2 in the final game to qualify for this round. While they look dangerous and and a high work rate, I don’t think they can overcome the Dutch.

The Dutch emerged from their group with a perfect record of 3 wins and I see them extending their run in this game. They are a very good attacking side and have not conceded a goal in 3 games. Robben is fit to play although I think they want to protect him and call upon him only when they need him.

Holland to win this by 2 goals as well, but game may go to extra time. 2-0, 3-1


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Round of 16 #2

I was quite impressed by South Korea's determination last night. Of course, based on the game we saw, neither team deserved to lose, but thats how football works. the Koreans have nothing to be ashamed of, they played really well and if they continue to progress in terms of football development, it won't be a surprise if they go further in the next World Cup.

I expected an American victory last night, but it went in to extra time and the Americans lost concentration right after the kick off whistle. It's a shame but Ghana has worked hard and will now face the in form Uruguay in the quarter finals.

My predictions for tonight:

England vs Germany

A fierce rivalry in football that streteches back to at least half a century ago. I'm not sure if the football is going to be as good as the intense rivalry among supporter. Germany has had a start-stop campaign so far while England only managed to squeeze into the round of 16 by the skin of thier teeth.

Crashing out at this stage will be considered a failure for either team, so victory is a must. I do have a feeling that this game will go into extra time. England has great individual players while Germans have exceptional teamwork and work rate. If it oes to penalties I'd favour Germany as Englad still has a poor record at this stage.

England to win this 3-2, or 2-1. Penalties will be Germany.


Argentina vs Mexico

2 good attacking teams will play each other tonight. Both are in goalscoring form and at the same time, both are not known for their defensive abilities. I really hope that this game will be a high scoring game, for the sake of the viewers and me as well. This could be the match of the tournament so far if both throw caution to the wind. The edge of course lies with Argentina, who have a host of attacking talent. Any football club would dream of having their line up.

Argentina to win this by 2 goals. 3-1 or 4-2



Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Round of 16 #1

A quick one since the match is about to begin as i type this:

Uruguay vs South Korea

Both have ultra fit squads but i do believe that the Uruguayans hold the edge in terms of technique and flair. Koreans are more hardworking but I dont think they have enough creativity to beat Uruguayans. Forlan to play a big part in this match. I do feel that there is a huge chance this game could be going into extra time tonight.

I think Uruguay will win this by the odd goal. 1-0(Full time) or 2-1(After Extra Time).


USA vs Ghana

Ghana have not played exceptionally well, but did enough just to qualify to this round. The Americans, however, have played really well so far in the tournament. They have looked dangerous as well as looked very fit, scoring tonnes of late goals.

I favour the Americans to go through if they continue to play the way they did. Landon Donovan is in fine form, looking dangerous, as well as Clint Dempsey.

Americans to win this 1-0 or 2-0



Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 8

My wish for Mexico to win came true last night. It looks like Les Blues are gonna get the blues real soon. THe Argentina game has got to be the best so far in the tournament. They beat South Korea 4-1, and the score was flattering. The Koreans pushed them all the way and had great chances themselves. The shock for me came from the Greece vs Nigeria game. But that game turned because of a red card incident for Nigeria.

I think from today onward I shall give 2 score predictions and 1 Asian style gambling prediction.

Tonights matches:

Group D: Germany vs Serbia

The Serbians looked like a team without ideas in ther previous game. Though they are good defensively, its hard to see them create a goal unless it is coming from a set piece. Germany however, are on a high after the 4-0 demolition of Australia in the previous game. However, the only fear is that their young team maybe suffering from overconfidence due to the good press they've been getting.

But then again, man for man, the Germans have the edge as well as the form. German to win this 2-0 / 2-1. Asian style would be Serbia +1 (means Serbians get 1 ball)


Group C: Slovenia vs United States

Both teams are relatively good and I think for the US team particularly, they will be on a high after managing a draw against England. I still think that England will top this group, and whoever who win this tie will be placed 2nd. I have a feeling that the Americans could nick this game, just a gut feeling. United States to win this 1-0 / 2-1. SLovenia + 1/2 (Half ball)


Group C: England vs Algeria

The Algerians are the poorest team in this group and I think all they could hope for at most is to park the bus and maybe get a lucky draw. The English will be looking to get the score right this time and show they mean business. I just hope that the players do no get too affected over Capello's selection policy.

England to win this by at least 2 goals. 2-0 / 3-0. Algeria 1 1/2 (1 and a half) / 2 (2 balls)

Lets hope I get all 3 right this time around =)


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 7

Got 2 results right again last night,but the wrong scores.
I, together with most pundit would have gotten the Spain vs Switzerland game wrong. It was a great upset.

Tonight's predictions;


Group A: France vs Mexico

Now i term this match a do or die match. The team who loses this game would almost have an uphill task to qualify seeing that Uruguay destroyed South Africa last night. French are still out of form, while the Mexicans are still playing attractive, good football.

I'd love to see Mexico win this game but in all likelihood, I think this match would be a draw. 1-1 for me (but the hopeful side in me would like to see Mexico win this 3-2)


Group B: Argentina vs South Korea

Both teams won their 1st game of the tournament and a second victory would guarantee qualification. I think the Argentinians would be on fire after dominating their earlier game and would like to set the record straight by piling up the goals. I think there is too much quality in Argentina for South Korea to handle.

Argentina to win this by at least 2 goals. 2-0


Group B: Greece vs Nigeria

I think Greece would end up bottom of this group. Otto Rehaggel should have retired after leading the Greeks to European glory 6 years ago. Now it looks like he won't be leaving in glory. Greeks are a bit too poor compared to the Nigerians.

I tip the Nigerians to nick this by a single goal margin. 1-0


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 6

Got 2 out of 3 right again. The scores were wrong though. North Koreans did very well and played with lots of determination. At times, they did play pretty good football. The Kiwis surprised me by managing a last gasp goal to snatch a draw off Slovakia. The Slovakians would be bitterly disappointed. And as for the Portugal vs Ivory Coast game, I was surprised that Drogba came off the bench to play! There was Ronaldo brilliance, but it went off the goal post.


Here are my predictions for tonight’s matches.


Group H: Spain vs Switzerland

Both the Spanish and Swiss have their own injury problems. The Swiss captain, Alex Frei is out injured while for Spain, Torres might be unfit to start the game, as with Fabregas. But in this group, the Spanish are my favourties to top the group.

I tip Spain to win this by 2 goals.


Group H: Honduras vs Chile

Hondurans will make history as the 1st team with 3 brothers in their squad. The Palacios brothers are the only highlight this team has. They have been very unconvincing in the previous 5 friendlies, scoring only 2 goals. Chile on the other hand, has been impressive. Overall, man for man, I think Chile has a better team.

Chile to win this by 2 goals as well.



Group A: South Africa vs Uruguay

This is the 2nd game of Group A. South Africa played out of their skins to manage a draw the previous game and almost stole victory at the death when one of their shots hit the post. Uruguay however, played an uninspiring game against the French last time out. I’m not sure that will boost the morale of the players. I don’t see much into this game. If the SA team played like they did in the 1st game, we would see a draw again.

But I still think Uruguay has a stronger team, and as such should be able to nick this game. Win by 1 goal margin.



Boodyboy, out!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 5

Got 2 out of 3 right again. The Japan result was a surprise. I expected Italy to do better, but being a Italian fan, I knew a draw was coming.

The Dutch disappointed despite winning by 2 goals. The match was a bore despite both being attacking minded teams.

Here are my prediction for tonight’s matches.


Group F: Slovenia vs New Zealand

A game to decide who will end up at the bottom of the group. Italy and Paraguay are favourites to qualify, leaving these 2 to fight for face-saving rights.

I’d tip Slovenians to win this game 2-0 partly because I think the Kiwis do not have the sufficient strength in depth for the World Cup. The only reason they are here is because Australia left Oceania region to compete under the Asian banner.


Group G: Brazil vs North Korea (DPRK)

North Koerans are an unknown side in this tournament. All their players play inside the country. And the few glimpses have been in friendlies. They are a very very hardworking side, but against Brazil, it will be difficult.

I tip Brazil to win this by either 3 or 4 goals. They have the teamwork and firepower. My only reservation is whether coach Dunga will allow his team to go all out attacking when they have control of the game.


Group G: Portugal vs Cote D’Ivoire

The Ivorians are still the strongest African team in my opinion, even without injured Drogba. But without him, their task is definitely much tougher. Another hardworking team here with lots of stamina. Portugal have not played well in previous friendlies and their performances have not been encouraging at all. Ronaldo will be out to prove a point that this tournament is not the Lionel Messi show. I think both these teams are pretty evenly matched.

I think its is highly likely that this match would be a score draw, 1-1, 2-2 wont surprise me. However, I do think a moment of brilliance for Ronaldo will allow Portugal to sneak this as well.


Boodyboy, out!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 4

Again, since the matches are due to being in less than an hours time, its gonna be a quick and short prediction for tonight.


Group E: Netherlands vs Denmark

2 relatively strong countries from the European continent face off. The Dutch team are one of my tips for the title, but unfortunately they are in the same half as Brazil and Spain. In this group however, I think its pretty straight forward. Netherland looks like they have the best team in the group on paper. And based on the results of thier previous friendlies, I think the Dutch are capable of winning by 2 or 3 goals tonight.


Group E: Japan vs Cameroon

Cameroon is also another strong African team, led by Samuel Eto'o. The Japanese team, however hardworking they maybe have not fared well in recent friendlies. They have also never won a World Cup game away from home.

Cameroon to win by 1 or 2 goals.


Group F: Italy vs Paraguay

The Italians are my favourite team in the tournament. Paraguayans are playing very attractive football with the right results at the moment while the Italins have stuttered and stumbled. However, I think italy's squad may still have the advantage, despite having a lot of old player from the previous World Cup. Its either a 1-1 draw or a narrow victory for the Italians.


So far based on 2 days of predictions I've gotten 2/3 right (may not be the score but the winning team). I think thats still not too bad, after all, group stages are easy to predict.


Boodyboy, out!!!

FIFA World Cup 2010 : My Prediction for Day 3

This comes in a bit late as I've been out the whole day. The 1st match is being played as I'm typing this.

A short post this time around for my predictions due to lack of time, so i won't be able top elaborate on why I predict the scores.

Group C: Algeria vs Slovenia

I think this match is too close to call. Both also weak teams, but I still believe Slovenia has a little edge in terms of quality. Narrow win to Slovenia or a score draw.


Group D: Serbia vs Ghana

Ghanaians are just about the strongest African team other than Ivory Coast. The Serbian defence, on th other hand is very strong. I see a draw for this match, if not then Serbia might steal victory from a set piece.


Group D: Germany vs Australia

Good news for Aussies is that Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell are fit to start the game tonight. Germany have lost their captain in Michael Ballack, but i think are still too strong for Australia. The best result Australia can hope for is a draw here. Germans to win this 2-0 or 2-1.



Boodyboy, out!!