What to Expect From Thursday Jun, 26 2014 World Cup Matches

Thursday Jun, 26 2014 World Cup Matches

Portugal Vs. Ghana

The vote of no confidence, the current world footballer of the year gave his team, will spur them to show that they are no average team. Ghana will feel the brunt of Ronaldo's teammates' fury. Not that Ghana isn't a good enough team, in fact on the contrary, last edition's quarter-finalists are excellent. But they suffer from the same defensive naiveté that affects African teams at this level. Ghana's eye-ball-to-eyeball performance against the Germans, assures them that they can compete with the very best.

Prediction: Portugal 2 vs. Ghana 1

Man to watch: Gyan

Germany Vs U.S.A 

Team U.S.A has developed the penchant of exceeding expectations and are hugely underrated because of the perceptions that their citizens do not take soccer; as it's called, seriously. Millions of dollars have gone into building the soccer culture in the homeland. And with South Americans sipping through the border to reinforce their league, the MLS is as competitive as any in Europe. The Germany will want closure and avoid any embarrassment which will dent their mystique of invincibility. Besides they remain one realistic hope of Europe winning the tournament in South American soil for the first time. They may abandon the false nine system and revert to the trusted arrow head in attack with Klose at the tip. Either way, Team U.S.A remains resilient especially with Tim Howard in goal.

Prediction: Germany 1 Vs U.S.A 1

South Korea Vs Belgium

No disrespect to the Koreans but Belgium will win this. Eden Hazard will like to share in the adulation currently meted out to Messi and Neymar. 

Prediction: South Korea 1 Vs Belgium 3

Algeria Vs Russia

The Algerians have a best chance of the African teams, of   joining Nigeria as the second African team to progress to the second round. But they will face a stiff test in the Russians. Not that the Russians have overly impressed. The Capello-tutored don't score many goals and have to win this game.Sadly, they won't. 

Prediction: Algeria 2 vs. Russia 1