So now we get a couple of days' break to savor the Quarter Finals. It is the first time in the history of the World Cup that the final 8 are all nations that topped their group tables. Yet so many games were so close. How the USA forward put the ball wrong side of the post when it looked easier to score in last moments of normal time is beyond me: What a chance to advance. Argentina were grateful to Messi for making the goal that got them though in last couple of minutes of extra time. On such fine margins are fortunes decided.

USA fans can be proud of their team, but it is all over now.

It is even at 4 teams from The Americas and 4 from Europe. Here is how they line-up, China timezone:

Friday July 4 at 11.30 pm - tune in for warm up with a Midnight kickoff

France v Germany

Saturday July 5 at 4 am

Brazil v Columbia

Saturday 5 July at 11.30 pm - tune in for warm up with Midnight kickoff

Argentina v Belgium

Sunday 6 July at 4 am

The Netherlands v Costa Rica

Argentina and Germany fans have hope for now

PREDICTIONS

Germany to overcome France in a tight game

Brazil have it all to do - heart hopes that they will, but head says form team Columbia might put Brazil out!

Argentina are relying on Messi to save them - if he works magic again, they will be through. If not, Kompany and company are better balanced and a big threat.

The Netherlands (2010 finalists) to overcome Costa Rica (Ticos delighted to finish in top 8)

A Messi fan on Beijing streets - Will Belgium see his team off?

By ColinSpeakman

International Educator, Economist, goal of helping to increase understanding of China by the West

 

 

(Opinions of the writer in this blog don't represent those of China Daily.)