So the best team in the tournament couldn’t manage to beat the Belgium B team. I’m a little worried about our chances of winning the whole thing now but, then again, I’m sure they’ll step up once they have to play a better side. The result also means that there won’t be an England vs Japan clash (unless it’s in the final, or course). Image facing a school of Japanese kids if Japan were to get a result against England. The only worse thing would be being Scottish and having to explain, no doubt in vain, that you don’t come from England.

Anyhow, I thought that now we’ve reached the second round that I would make some further predictions.

France vs Argentina

France have been okay; Argentina have been pants and are lucky to have qualified. France win.

Uruguay vs Portugal

Tricky one. Uruguay haven’t set the world alight but are a very difficult team to beat. They play a very rigid formation. I’ll go with a Uruguayan win.

Brazil vs Mexico

I’ve always thought that Brazil are overrated so would be tempted to bet against them but Mexico had some problems qualifying. They qualified despite losing their last group game to Sweden 3-0. I can only guess that some other results within the group went their way. All I’m saying is that Germany “did an England”. Brazil win.

Belgium vs Japan

Strong as Belgium are everybody has consistently written Japan off. Plus I’m looking for England vs Japan in the final. Japan win.

Spain vs Russia

Spain have probably been the best side so far. Russia have surprised but they can only go so far. Spain win.

Croatia vs Denmark

Croatia have been another rather good side all be it a bit weak up front. Denmark haven’t been pulling up trees. Croatia win.

Sweden vs Switzerland

A difficult tie to predict as both are a bit crap. I predict a penalty shoot-out. Toss a coin to see who will win it.

Columbia vs England

England, of course.