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 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!!