The World Cup playoffs are in full swing, with three bright matchups at the center of attention. The U.S. team will try to take revenge on Belgium for their 2014 1/8 final defeat, the reigning World Cup champions from Argentina will face the relentless Egypt, and Switzerland and Colombia will clash in a tactical duel. Let's analyze the chances of each team.
USA vs Belgium
- Historical chance for USA: the Americans have never won three matches in one World Cup and are eager to repeat their 2002 quarterfinal run. However, they miss their top scorer with three goals due to suspension.
- Belgium's playoff experience: «Red Devils» have won 5 of their last 7 matches in the Round of 16 at the World Cup. In the previous round, they pulled off a miraculous comeback, equalizing from 0:2 and scoring on the 124th minute.
- Offensive potential of both teams: both USA and Belgium regularly score goals, but also make defensive mistakes. The game is expected to be open, with plenty of chances for both goalposts.
Youth and energy of the hosts against the experience and composure of Belgian veterans. USA will play with their top player and create many dangerous chances, but Belgium is a team that knows how to wait and punish mistakes. Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku could decide the episode individually. A goal exchange in regular time is likely.
Argentina vs Egypt
- Unmatched Messi: 39-year-old Lionel Messi has already scored 7 goals at the tournament and could become the first Argentine in 100 years to score 8 goals in a single World Cup. The team plays for him.
- Egypt – dark horse: the team has not lost a match at the tournament (1 win, 3 draws) and beat Australia in the Round of 16 in a penalty shootout. Egypt's defense is disciplined, and Mohamed Salah is dangerous on counterattacks.
- Physical condition: both teams have played extra time in the previous round, but Argentina has a much deeper bench, which will allow them to keep freshness in the end.
Argentina will take control of the ball from the first minute, while Egypt will focus on defense and rare attacks. Egyptians can hold 0:0 for a long time, but the individual brilliance of the Albiceleste will expose any defense. Salah may score from a set piece or after a mistake, but that will not be enough for progression. Argentina is likely to solve the issue in the second half.
Switzerland vs Colombia
- Tactical discipline of Switzerland: Switzerland has won 3 of 4 matches, conceding only 3 goals. Their game is built on organization, set pieces, and leadership from Granit Xhaka in the center.
- Reliability and stars of Colombia: Colombians are also unbeaten (3 wins, 1 draw) and have the best defense – only 1 goal conceded. Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez are capable of deciding the match individually.
- Expected «low-scoring» match: both teams prefer not to take risks in attack. A bet on both teams scoring is risky, as matches involving these national teams traditionally result in low-scoring games.
This will be a classic tactical battle – closed, tight, with minimal chances. Switzerland will try to neutralize Diaz, while Colombia will try to break through Switzerland's defense through the wings. The outcome is likely to be decided by one goal or a set piece. Colombia has a slight advantage due to a more vibrant attack, but Switzerland is capable of taking the game to a penalty shootout.
Conclusion
The tournament is entering its decisive phase, and each match promises its own intrigue.
USA vs Belgium — this is a clash of youth and experience. Americans are eager to create history, but Belgian veterans know the value of the playoffs and are unlikely to miss their chance. A tough battle is expected, with Belgium looking slightly more favorable due to experience and star players.
Argentina vs Egypt — a classic case where the favorite must win. Egypt can cause problems, especially on counterattacks, but the reigning champions are too strong individually and as a team. Argentina should progress without serious hiccups.
Switzerland vs Colombia — the most unpredictable match at this stage. Everything will be decided by one incident, a set piece or an individual action. Switzerland is reliable, Colombia is more vibrant in attack. A slight advantage goes to the South Americans, but a surprise in the form of Switzerland advancing is not out of the question.
Overall, we are in for three completely different scenarios, and each of them may bring a surprise. This is exactly what makes the World Cup playoffs the main football celebration.
Disclaimer
All predictions presented in this material are purely informational and analytical in nature. They reflect the subjective opinion of our editorial team, based on available statistical data (including materials from Opta) and the current form of the teams. Football remains an unpredictable sport, and any match may bring a surprise. We do not guarantee that the predictions will match the actual results and urge you to approach any betting decisions responsibly, keeping in mind the possible risks. The final choice always remains with you.