by Ethan Johnson
June 29, 2006

Note: The following predictions are provided for entertainment purposes only. I am not responsible for any lost bets, and am entitled to half of the proceeds from all winning bets. Actually I'll reserve the right of first refusal as a hedge against any weird wagers. Glad that's settled. On to the uninformed prognosticating!

Germany vs Argentina: Oooh, this is a tough one. Both teams are playing well, and both have the firepower and will to win. This could come down to penalty kicks. Or, one side will melt down and face scorn and ridicule for four years. I am going to go with the host country (Germany). They have never won the Cup, and while Argentina is heavily favored this is a home game for Germany, big time.

Italy vs Ukraine: Ukraine has already defied expectations by getting this far. However, Italy has a "frowny face" next to their entry on my bracket (this is true) because of the suspect penalty that was called in the waning moments of the Italy/Australia game. Italy should be able to beat Ukraine, but then again, they drew against the bungling USA, and worse, scored on themselves to force the draw. And correct call or not, that penalty call against Australia struck me as more of a lucky break for Italy than anything. I am going to be contrary and go with Ukraine. I'll just have to scrap my plans of vacationing in Tuscany, well, ever.

England vs Portugal: Ugh, this is another not-fun match to decide. Portugal has a 16 game (!!) winning streak right now. England has Beckham. Hmmm, this is a tough one. I really expected more out of The Netherlands in the 16s, but Portugal seems to find a way to win. Portugal also dominated the Group Stage with 3 wins compared to England's 2. But England also finished first in their group and beat Ecuador. I'm going to go with Portugal if for no other reason than I like their streak, and they've theoretically got the momentum going their way. Either way, this should be worth watching.

Brazil vs France: Brazil, hands-down. Unless they get fat heads and think ahead to England or Portugal, and ignore the French scoring attack. Brazil seems to be thriving on the accusations of being "overrated". Yeah, real overrated there. They dominated their group, beat Ghana, and Ronaldo is 3rd in the running for the Golden Boot™. Brazil. Braaaazil. Bra-ziiiiiiiilllll, Braaaa-zillll, la la laaa la la laa la la...

There are only 11 calendar days until all of this madness is over, but at least as the field pares down and the intensity heats up it is easier to focus on fewer games and try to guess at who will advance to the Grand Finale. I'm just hoping for no rioting. <EM>