Groups G and H include heavyweights like Portugal and Germany in the mix and could well and truly decide which of the teams will progress further and which do not.
Groups G and H include heavyweights like Portugal and Germany in the mix and could well and truly decide which of the teams will progress further and which do not. Belgium too have staked their claim in the Round of 16 but need to win the remaining game in order to avoid a top side in the further round. Here is the preview of today’s games that have been lined up as schedule:
Group G:
Portugal vs. Ghana
Likely result – Portugal to win 1-0
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal face a heartbreaking early exit from the FIFA World Cup on Thursday even if their world footballer of the year produces scintillating form in their final group game against Ghana. The Real Madrid player came to the World Cup bracketed alongside Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Brazil’s Neymar as one of a ‘superstar’ in world football but injury and poor Portugal display might just do them in.
Germany vs. USA
Likely result – Germans to slaughter the Americans
It’s the battle of the German coaches as Germany lock horns with the USA in a crucial tie of Group G. Both countries have four points in Group G and a draw would put both through to the next round, with Germany as group winner on goal difference. The Americans, meanwhile, need a win to avoid Belgium in the next round.
Group H:
Algeria vs. Russia
Likely result – Algerian victory
Algeria can make history by qualifying for the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in four appearances at the tournament when they face Russia on Thursday. Algerians will be assured of their place in the last 16 with a win, but should also progress with a draw so long as South Korea doesn’t beat the already qualified Belgium by at least three goals in the other match in Group H.
Korea vs. Belgium
Likely result – Belgian victory
Struggling South Korea need some ‘magic’ if they are to beat the unbeatable Belgium on Thursday in a crucial group tie. After drawing with Russia and losing 4-2 to Algeria, Group H’s bottom side need to win big against already-qualified Belgium if they are to stay in the tournament.
With the final two groups awaiting their results tonight, one can expect an exciting contest!
