World Cup Final Eight
I must admit, despite the fact that my beloved country absoulutely sucks at soccer/futbol, I am hooked on the World Cup. I really think it is one of the greatest sporting events in the world. I honestly have found myself enjoying every minute of the games. The fans of the countries are hilarious. They stand and cheer and sing through every minute of every game, living and dying with every goal and every result. I think it would be fantastic to see this euphoria translate into American Football games, though then you would have someone yelling at you to sit down. That said I figure I would give you my predictions of the final eight teams.
Germany vs Argentina - The Argentinians have looked stellar in the early matches and Germany has given the home crowd lots to cheer about. I have to go with Germany here, as the home court advantage really matters in soccer. Winner - Germany, in penalty kicks.
Italy vs Ukraine - The Ukies have benefited from playing the softest competition in the cup. Italy has looked lackluster for most of the tournament, plus they were tied by the USA and only beat Australia thanks to the referees. I will pick the Italians because they are a much more talented team then the Ukrainians. Winner - Italy, 1-0.
England vs Portugal - I believe this match will be the best of the quarterfinals. The Portugese had years of not living up to their potential, including a devastating loss to the USA four years ago. This time around they have been playing lights out and are undefeated in their first four games. The English have been doing just enough to win their matches, despite playing fairly uninspired soccer. Winner - Portugal 3-2 in overtime
Brazil vs France - Brazil is equivalent to the 1960’s Boston Celtics, 1990’s Chicago Bulls, and 2000’s New England Patriots. They are the best in the world, time and time again. France is one of the few countries in the world tha thas success against the Brazilians, defeating them in the World Cup Finals in 1998, but that was in Paris, so screw the French. Winner - Brazil 2-0
So that sets up semi-finals:
Germany v Italy - Germany carries hometown momentum over the Italians. Since the World Cup resumed after WWII, either Germany or Brazil has played in every World Cup Final except one (1972 when Argentina defeated the Netherlands). This Year is no different as the krauts push through to contend for the finals. Winner - Germany 2-0
Brazil v Portugal - It is very very difficult to pick against the Brazilians. Plus I am still not all that convinced that Portugal will beat the Brits. Brazil - 1-0, in OT
Finals:
Germany v Brazil - Much like in 1998, a superior Brazil team will fall to the hometown heros. Germany 1-0.
June 28th, 2006 at 10:31 am
I agree, except on Portugal getting by England. No way they make it with Deco and some other guys out with red card suspensions after their ridiculously penalty filled match with the Netherlands. England goes on to play Brazil in the semis, where they fall. Germany beats Italy, but then loses to Brazil (come on…they are ridiculous, and they haven’t even gotten up to full speed yet).
July 5th, 2006 at 12:59 pm
I was rooting for England, and expecting Brazil v. Argentina. I am watching France/Portugal now and just appauled that one of these teams have to play Italy. Boo Italy, they suck!