Saturday, June 24
Germany over Sweden
No-brainer. Seriously, besides the Swedes, who else thinks Germany could lose? This is a classic open and shut case - why are we even talking about this? The only slightly interesting aspect of the match is the bad blood between the two sides since 1958 when Sweden defeated then West Germany 2-1 in the World Cup semifinals (in Sweden). But it's not even close to the level of traditional hatred between Brazil and Argentina for example.
Upset factor : 0/10 (I am going to rot in hell if Sweden wins)
Argentina over Mexico
The coach of Mexico, Ricardo Lavolpe knows a thing or two about Argentina: he was the second-choice goalkeeper of the World Cup-winning Argentina team in 1978. (Remember those guys - Mario Kempes, Daniel Pasarella, anyone? )
That might be of some help, but the overall record of Mexico against Argentina is not a morale-booster for them. Of the 14 played, Argentina won 5, lost 2 and 7 games have been drawn.
How does it look for the Mexicans? Not good, not good at all. Argentines are too sharp in their attack, controls the midfield with more assurance and simply put, are more talented.
On the top of it, Argentina has flourished, while Mexico has been far from being impressive so far.
Upset factor: 1/10.
To be continued...
Article comments
1 - RJ Elliott
You were right on both counts. Too bad I couldn't be in Germany to taunt the Mexicans with chants of "President Polk! President Polk!" during their national anthem...