Brazil vs Chile:
Chile played their hearts out. Julio Cesar ROBBED the Chileans countless of times, especially in the penalty shootout. Brazil got lucky, the host nation could have easily exited. You could feel the whole stadium gasp with that late crossbar! Rest easy for now Brazilians.
Colombia vs Uruguay:
Without Suarez, Uruguay was considerably the lesser side. James Rodriguez was too skillful; Cuadrado made sure of that on the insurance marker with a stellar cutback header. Colombia will give Brazil quite the challenge. Excitement level for that Quarter Final game = HOT HOT HOT!
France vs Nigeria:
I was not able to watch this match, but from what I understand, France had a flurry of unlucky opportunities! I feel Pogba finally showed his true abilities as well, breaking out of his finishing slump. He could not find the net in the group matches, so hopefully he's found his rightful footing now. Nigeria, I've got nothing for ya... Bye bye!
Germany vs Algeria:
German engineering. They found a way to get past the pesky Algerians! It took extra time to do it, but in the end their class rose to the top. That Schurrle back flick goal was nasty (in a good way). France vs Germany will be quite the match-up as well. Excitement level = SIZZZZLE!
Netherlands vs Mexico:
If anyone was going to down the Dutch it was going to be El Tri. Their fast paced, shoot-from-anywhere style is what made them so exciting to watch. They stunted the Dutch counter attack and it almost worked. Ochoa stood on his head once again, but in the end the Oranje attack prevailed. Robben took advantage of Marquez's toe stomp and Huntelaar pounded home the PK (that ninja-kick to the flag cele was one of the best of the tournament)!
Costa Rica vs Greece:
Hmm the least interesting of the 8 matches. Nonetheless, Costa Rica is the Cinderella story and they deserve this progression! Who would have guessed this?! Los Ticos are the most favourable opposition for the Netherlands, although I hope they aren't taken too lightly. Excitement level = Tssssssss on a frying pan. (But HUP HOLLAND HUP because I'm a Dutch supporter...)
Argentina vs Switzerland:
Collapse on Messi was the strategy! It worked for a full 90 minutes, but dang, there is still extra time. One act of brilliance was all it took. Messi received the ball in transition from a turnover and BANG, he drew in 4 defenders, leaving Di Maria wide open for the precise low shot to the corner. Victory. The Swiss held their own and showed some fine foot skill, but they played for penalties... You can't do that.
Belgium vs USA:
One word: HOWARD. He recorded the most saves in a game since '66. Outrageous. The Belgian attack had 27 shots on target! However, extra time was the spotlight and both teams performed valiantly. De Bruyne 'rang around the rosie' to deliver the first goal and the youngster Green proved his worth. But the difference was Lukaku's beastly form, in which he delivered the first assist and match winner late in the extra frame. If only that ingenious free kick by the US turned for the better...
Belgium vs Argentina is going to be another barn burner. Excitement level = YEEEEOWWWWW THAT'S HOT!
For our pool, Jonny "Balls" continues to dominate the way. He just might hold out for the victory. We'll see how the Golden Boot and Glove pan out however.
Here are the
The theme for the Round of 16 was Extra Time MADNESS! Cannot wait for what lies ahead in the Quarter Finals.
Cheers.
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