Article
Bracketology 101; 2014 FIFA World Cup…breaking down the June Madness!
Part 1: The Identity
To some people, the month of March means the beginning of spring. To others, such as my family, my newfound friends in Australia and even me; it signifies summer is coming to a close and winter is drawing near. Yet others even see the month of March as a time to party for St. Patrick’s Day. However, for football enthusiast the world over, March; especially this year, means only one thing: the World Cup is just around the corner…and…inevitably with March come discussions of who will advance, who will disappoint and who will ultimately hold up the cup in Rio when it is all said and done.
Being born and raised in the United States, I have grown-up knowing the month of March to signify something much different on the American athletic calendar; March Madness, so named because the majority of the NCAA Men’s Division 1 Basketball Tournament takes place in March and is the culmination of a college basketball season that begins in November. For the teams invited to play, it’s their chance to prove they’re the best in the country. However for fans, it’s something completely different. While some people genuinely want to see their favourite team win the title, others just want to see the bracket they filled out win the office pool. For some, basketball doesn’t even factor into the equation. They treat the bracket as a puzzle or brainteaser. Yet, still others don’t care for basketball or the challenge of the bracket. They just want to have some fun with their co-workers, family or friends.
Having lived in Australia for the last 28 months and thus being not just a whole day ahead of the NCAA Tournament, but also being in a location where even if I was able to find a tele or internet feed of tournament games they were taking place smack-dab in the middle of the night, my fondness for the March ritual of filling-out numerous brackets and following them as the tournament progresses has never swayed. That is more-than-likely because my history with March Madness Bracketology goes back into my earlier days and will always have a place in my heart. However, the game of football has long-since taken the driver’s seat in that regard and while I still filled-out my own March Madness NCAA Bracket; this year I find myself more excited to delve into the bracket that is the 2014 FIFA World Cup that begins in June, as opposed to March; hence my referral to it as “June Madness!”
So, a question that may be bouncing around in the back of your mind about now is, “how do we break down the World Cup bracket and best guarantee that your individual bracket will bring you success?” Analysts, sports casters, networks and amateurs have all tried to nail down the perfect technique for picking teams using “Bracketology,” or the study of the brackets, for the NCAA Tournament for years and they’ve all hit the same conclusion: There isn’t an exact science to guarantee a winning bracket. However, there are things to consider that can give you a leg up on your competition.
To the bracket novice, the process can seem a little daunting. Where do you start? What teams should you advance? What can you do to make sure you select the most correct winners? Well, that’s why I’m here! So, just read on to find out everything you need to know concerning the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil; tips to help you win the bracket and the bragging rights that invariably come along with it.
Let’s Begin by Taking a General Overall Look at the Entire Bracket
There are a lot of misconceptions about evaluating a bracket. Due to the specific arrangement of the World Cup bracket in which it begins with round robin group play before melding itself into one-and-done elimination rounds of which are established by criss-crossed placements due to the finishing placements in the respective groups…WOW…you can see how ominous it can be to not just understand, but more-less begin to predict.
Basically, you have to look at each individual match within each individual group during the group stage and then rank them 1-32. Once these rankings are done, the teams are split back up into their increments of four, or back into their respective groups. The last eight teams on your list of 32 are automatically the fourth-place (or third and fourth place if two fall in the same group) teams in their respective groups and the first eight teams on your list of 32 are automatically the first-place (or first and second place if two fall in the same group) and represent what is called the “Power Eight.” Once I break the teams back-up into their respective groups, it is easy for me to see where one team maybe should finish ahead of another. Once I’ve done this and after all teams are seeded within their groups, I make sure to note the “bottom eight” and the “Power Eight” to keep full radar on teams for when I begin to break-down individual matches.
As far as selecting teams, my process is not really as complicated as it first appears to be. Remember, I am only selecting 16 teams because only the top two from each of the eight groups advance to the knock-out rounds. During the group-stage, I use the current FIFA World Rankings to start me off in beginning to determine who my two advancing bids go to. Once I have these teams selected, I rank them 1-16. I rank these teams based on factors like geography, travel, how they played during qualification and leading up to the World Cup, etc…, with special focus on certain characteristics like quality wins and strength of schedule. I look at each team independently within their respective groups, so I try not to let previous results have too much of an effect on my bracket. I believe it is OK to have a natural bias towards South American teams in this World Cup, for example; especially with the history of success they’ve had in them when being held on their own soil. Never-the-less, I try very hard not to let this bias be a major influencer within my bracket.
For my personal bracket, I used previous competitions between teams along with my own research about them. I would refer to the FIFA Rankings as a reference for who is “expected” to be good; usually the only time I would really ever call upon these rankings for bracket purposes. I am interested to see how the shift of power towards the major federations affects not only group outcomes, but also matchups in later rounds. CONCACAF teams, as well as the African and Asian nations all lost consistently to teams based in Europe and South America. However, there have been some shifts among the low-major nations that will have minor impacts. Bottom line: previous tournament reputations will be more irrelevant than ever and there will be a period of feeling-out within the group stage that is surely to bring several unexpected results and surprises.
In my opinion, UEFA returns as the best region, but CONMEBOL is not far behind. CAF and CONCACAF are about equal, while AFC continues to lag slightly behind, despite having some impressive individual performances of late. This concoction will make the 2014 FIFA World Cup as competitive as always.
So, without further ado; let’s begin our course on “Bracketology 101; 2014 FIFA World Cup.”
A More Detailed Look at the Tournament Field
The next few months may drag on with stories of roster changes, stadiums that aren’t finished, protests in the streets, etc…, but once all of that is put aside, there is certainly no shortage of talking points.
At first glance there is an immediate jostle between Group B and Group D for the coveted title of the “Group of Death,” with the latter featuring a greater spread of quality across the four teams; England vs. Italy in particular may be arguably the most high-profile dual-European affair in the entire group stage. Yet, the former includes both finalists from the 2010 World Cup, along with Chile, one of the most exciting and up and coming national teams. Group B, in particular, features four sides that all play possession-based systems, meaning it should also create the most attractive, attacking matches of the entire group stage.
At the other end of the spectrum there is also a battle for the weakest group between Group E and Group H. France will no doubt be delighted by the relative ease of which they should progress; however given the country’s penchant for self-destruction at recent international tournaments what appears a poor group on paper could well turn into one of the more fascinating. Likewise for Group H, which features no one single outstanding side, but rather a cluster of middle-range teams, although Belgium and Russia will both fancy their chances of finishing top.
The rest of the bracket tosses up plenty of plot lines. Group G appears to be nothing short of a FIFA sponsored reunion. Germany and Ghana were also paired together in the group stage at the last tournament and Ghana were the United States’ opponents in the Round of 16 clash in South Africa that sent the Americans home (at the hands of Ghana for the second consecutive World Cup, I should point out). Even without Portugal Group G would have been fascinating, but the inclusion of the European side; who boast arguably the tournament’s most decisive player in Cristiano Ronaldo, takes the group’s dynamic to a whole other level.
I’ve heard many make the claim that this is the strongest pool of teams to ever assemble together and compete at a World Cup. Even though, I’ve heard this said about almost every World Cup that I can recall, casting an eye across the other groups leads me to believe that the claim does become somewhat hard to argue. There are a host of tantalising matches that should provide plentiful entertainment. For example; Bosnia whom are competing in their first-ever World Cup, will take on Argentina who rather ominously have been placed in a group that means a potential Macarana final against the hosts is certainly likely.
Speaking of the Samba Kings; Brazil, meanwhile, will be pleased with the challenge presented by their opponents beginning with an opening round fixture against Croatia. The millions in Rio will think this a fantastic way to launch the tournament and yet another reason to party!
Now, before we can go any deeper into the individual matches, let’s take one final look at some of the obvious favourites and get them out of the way.
The Big Five
Brazil
The Canaries are going into the 2014 FIFA World Cup as favourites. Not only are the Brazilians a tremendously talented team with the quality to win a World Cup, they are also the host nation. These two factors put them as one of the favourites, if not the overall favourite. If the Selcao can replicate the form they showed at the Confederations Cup, they could be lifting another trophy.
Spain
The Spanish are the defending champions. That in itself makes them a favourite. Take that and add the quality of the players that Spain’s team is littered with and La Roja will go far. Spain’s issues are in the back and up front. They still haven’t settled on a number nine and struggle in central defense. Throw in the fact that Iker Casillas may be rusty and slowing down by the time June rolls around and you have some problems. Spain could face some major issues against complete teams like the Selcao, Germany and Italy. The midfield dominance will win Del Bosque’s team some games and keep them in some others, but upper-tier countries will give Spain significant problems.
Italy
Spain won’t be the only European power that could topple Brazil’s apple cart. The Azzurri will also be strong. Italy may not come off as a side that belongs in the “Spain, Brazil, Argentina and Germany” discussion, but that may be the best thing possible for the Italians. Since Cesare Prandelli has taken over, the peninsula’s football team has gained a reputation of playing strong in big tournaments. Prandelli likes to use friendlies as a way to experiment with his team, trying different players in different formations. All that experimenting has led to strong showings in top competitions. Italy redeemed themselves in Euro 2012 not only by playing Spain tight in two matches, but also beating England and demolishing Germany on their way to the final. Italy has performed well in tournaments, but they are also the “bogey” for many teams. The Italians have never lost to England in a World Cup and are unbeaten against Germany in all competitions. They also hold the distinction of being the first team to figure out how to crack the puzzle that is the Spanish.
Germany
A rare mix of technical efficiency and physical dominance; Germany are one of the favourites in Brazil. Like Spain, their strength is in their midfield. Toni Kroos, Bastian Schweinsteiger and friends are almost a younger, more athletic version of Spain’s midfield. Sticking to similarities with the Spanish, Germany could have problems at the number nine spot. Miroslav Klose is getting older by the minute and there are injury concerns with other strikers, so goals from that spot could be a problem. The Germans will have no issues at the back, however, as Manuel Neuer remains one of the best keepers in the world.
Argentina
Brazil’s closest competition from a geographical and possibly a football standpoint; the Argentines’ strength is a ruthless attacking force that includes Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, Gonzalo Higuain, Erik Lamela, Ezequiel Lavezzi and of course, arguably one of the worlds’ best in Lionel Messi. Argentina’s attack is so absurd; I’m not even going to write about their “mediocre” defense. The Argentines’ success will depend on their attack and to an extent, Messi. If Messi is on, the South American side will be tough to stop. On the other hand, if Messi is injured, or off his game, then this team will be somewhat easier to beat. Argentina’s offense will carry them. Whether that leads to a World Cup remains to be seen.
That should get you started thinking. Now, get your World Cup brackets printed and grab something to write with because in Part #2 of this series, we’re going to dive right into each and every group and dissect them from top to bottom, inside and out.
Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia
The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.
Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.
Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.
Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.
In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.
Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.
Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez
Colombia
With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.
In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.
Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.
Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.
Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba
Key Stats
- Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
- Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
- Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
- A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.
Match Deciding Duel
Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)
Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.
With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.
Prediction
Argentina 2-1 Colombia
The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.
Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final
As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.
Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.
In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.
Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.
A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.
Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.
We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.
Team News and Predicted XI
Spain
Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.
Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.
Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams
England
England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.
Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.
Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Key Stats
- A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
- A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
- Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
- England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.
Match Deciding Duel
Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)
Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.
Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.
Prediction
Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)
England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.
Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A
Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.
A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.
On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.
This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.
Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.
Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez
Canada
Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.
Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and Alphonso Davies.
Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin
Key Stats
- Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
- Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
- A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
- Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.
Match Deciding Duel
Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.
Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.
Transfer Watch
Jonathan David
The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.
David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.
Prediction
Argentina 2-0 Canada
Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.
- Liverpool14 years ago
Raheem Sterling Age 17 Kids 3 Women 2
- Arsenal13 years ago
Etienne Capoue To Become An Arsenal Player In Summer
- Arsenal13 years ago
Arsenal Defender Nacho Monreal Doesn’t Agree The Direction The Club Is Going.
- Arsenal13 years ago
Robin van Persie wants to move back to Arsenal
- Arsenal13 years ago
Report: Arsenal Could Sign A Striker Next Week
- Headlines13 years ago
Manchester United Preparing A (Javier Hernandez + De Gea + 55 Million) Bid For Ronaldo
- Arsenal13 years ago
Arsenal Planning To Bring In ‘Next Fabregas’
- Headlines13 years ago
Three Reasons Why Manchester United Must Sign This “Next Vidic”