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From the Milton Sports Guy:
There are several tantalizing matchups in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 including Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal taking on pre-tournament favourite Spain.
16 nations are left standing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which continues this morning in South Africa.
As expected, there are some juicy matchups on tap in the round of 16, but the biggest shock of the tournament so far was the implosion of both of the 2006 finalists.
France and the defending World Champions from Italy both failed to advance past the group stage. France played some horrible football and folded amidst internal strife and controversy, finishing their tournament with a 2-1 loss to the previously winless South Africans. Italy also managed nary a win, and were shocked by upstart Slovakia 3-2 in their final group stage match.
Don’t worry about any kind of drop off in play from the remaining teams though — all 16 nations currently alive are more than deserving. Although of the matchups should be good, close, hotly contested affairs, we’re looking forward to these:
United States vs. Ghana, Saturday June 26, 2:30pm
The U.S. rallied late to defeat Algeria earlier in the week and they look to be setup for a run to possibly the semis. If they can get past Ghana, they’ll face the winner of Uruguay/South Korea — not necessarily World powerhouses. Ghana represents the host continent’s only chance at the championship.
England vs. Germany, Sunday June 27, 10:00am
Two of the most historically successful footballing nations as well as the two with arguably the biggest sense of entitlement.
Argentina vs. Mexico, Sunday June 27, 2:30pm
The explosive Argentines, arguably the best team in the tournament so far, against a tough Mexican team which is always dangerous.
Brazil vs. Chile, Monday June 28, 2:30pm
Despite losing to Spain, Chile has played some great football in this tournament and faces their continental rivals, the always favoured Brazilians, who haven’t looked quite as polished as we expected. This one has upset written all over it.
Spain vs. Portugal, Tuesday June 29, 2:30pm
Defending Euro champion and pre-tournament favourite Spain takes on their geographical neighbour Portugal led by Cristiano Ronaldo. This one should be an absolute classic with one of these very talented clubs exiting the tournament early.
Here is the full schedule for the Round of 16 and be sure to take our poll below — who will advance to the final 8? Enjoy the matches!
Uruguay vs. South Korea, Saturday June 26, 10:00am ET
United States vs. Ghana, Saturday June 26, 2:30pm ET
Germany vs. England, Sunday June 27, 10:00am ET
Argentina vs. Mexico, Sunday June 27, 2:30pm ET
Netherlands vs. Slovakia, Monday June 28, 10:00am ET
Brazil vs. Chile, Monday June 28, 2:30pm ET
Paraguay vs. Japan, Tuesday June 29, 10:00am ET
Spain vs. Portugal, Tuesday June 29, 2:30pm ET
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The Milton Sports Guy is regular contributor to MiltonSearch.com.
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