a day away

now, on to predicting the quarterfinals (round of 8)...

"bracket a":

germany v. holland: a grudge match of epic proportions. the dutch would flood the border to buy up tickets and reduce germany's home advantage as much as they possibly could. it wouldn't matter, though, as holland is a stronger squad than germany and usually the more motivated in this clash. holland through to the semifinals...

u.s. v. tunisia: not a quarterfinal matchup most will predict, i would bet. the run for "the atlas lions" would come to an end here because the u.s. have too much team depth and more competent attacking options than do the north africans. america advance to face holland in semifinal 1.

"bracket b":

england v. cote d'ivoire: this would be a nightmare matchup for most english supporters because of the ivorians' style. however, a healthy rooney paired with a resurgent michael owen would be reason for confidence. again, england prevail, though it won't be easy, because of rooney's genius and the midfield play that his presence allows to flourish. heaven help all of us, especially 70 million englishmen and -women, if this goes to a penalty shootout...

czech republic v. ukraine: the czechs are ranked #2 in the world, though most people don't realise it. though ukraine have been rampaging for the past several years to get to this point, they can't overcome the tough and resilient czechs, who march on to face england in the semifinals.

tomorrow, it all begins and i'll give my semifinals and finals predictions that i know you all are waiting for...!