Weekly Roundup, Part 2

With both coming off multi-goal losses, the US and Colombia had nothing to play for, but a medal and for pride. Colombia would end their scoring drought in the 31st when Carlos Bacca got on the end of a cross and scored from a tight angle into the side netting. The US would come close with a Clint Dempsey free kick in the 51st which was punched away by David Ospina, and a shot from Bobby Wood that hit the post. That strike off the woodwork was a minute after Juan Cuadrado's chip for Colombia hit the crossbar. In the dying minutes of injury time, Michael Orozco of the US and Colombia's Santiago Arias were both sent off for a hit to the face and a flop. But the US could not get an equalizer to tie it, and Colombia got 3rd.
                  In the final, both Chile and Colombia had few chances. In the first half, both teams saw a red as Chile's Marcelo Diaz got a second yellow in the 28th, while Argentina's Marcos Rojo got a straight red 15 minutes later. Gonzalo Higuain of Argentina had a golden chance wasted when a Chile pass was broken up by Higuain, but his shot over Chile's Claudio Bravo went just wide of the left post. He also missed a tap-in by his teammate Ezequiel Lavezzi in the last minute of regulation. Argentina out shot Chile Chile 16-4 in regulation and extra time, but the best chance was from Chile in extra-time in the 99th. Alexis Sanchez had a header deserving of a Sergio Romero dive to block the shot, and the Argentinean keeper kick started a chance a minute later that had Sergio Aguero's chance get a tip save from Bravo. In penalties, Arturo Vidal's shot was saved by Romero, but Messi gave up his chance for the lead when his shot went over the bar. Chile converted their next 3 and Argentina kept pace until Higuain's went over the bar. Francisco Silva sealed the trophy for Chile, and frustrated Messi, who has yet to win a senior trophy for his nation, albeit reaching the final 4 times. After the game, Messi declared his international retirement from the game and his country Argentina.

Weekly Roundup, Semi-Finals (Part 1)

And now for the final week report. Last week was started off by the semi-finals, beginning on Tuesday with the US against Argentina. Argentina got a quick lead in the 3rd minute, when Ezequiel Lavezzi got a lovely cross from Lionel Messi, and chipped it over US keeper Brad Guzan. Messi got a goal of his own in the 32nd, curling a free kick just inside Guzan's left post, which gave Messi the current leader for most goals by an Argentinean player in his career. Gonzalo Higuain scored the last 2 goals for Argentina to put the icing on the cake by putting the ball past the line in the 50th and 86th minutes, via a tap-in and strike. The US, considered huge underdogs, had not a single shot on net.
                  The following day's game was Chile vs. Colombia. In a rain-soaked atmosphere in Chicago, it gave both teams a neutral playing field. Chile would jump off to a comfortable lead just 11 minutes in, scoring in the 7th when Charles Aranguiz volleyed home a strike past keeper David Ospina after Colombia failed to clear it away. Chile would make it 2-0 in the 11th when Alexis Sanchez' s shot hit right post before Jose Fuenzalida tapped it home. Colombia would have more frustations due to the wet turf and a second yellow given Carlos Sanchez in the 57th. Colombia failed to get any clean shots on target. 

Predictions for Final and 3rd Place

Although I have not done my semi final recaps (I'll have a final week roundup soon coming after the final), here are my predictions for the last 2 games.

Who: Colombia vs. USA

When: Saturday, June 25 @ 8 PM ET

Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

Watch: FX, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)

Prediction: 2-0 Colombia: Once again Colombia will beat the US by 2 and also shut the US out. Even with the current run of wins, excluding Argentina vs. US, the US struggle against the best and Colombia will get 3rd place.

Who: Chile vs. Argentina 

When: Sunday, June 26 @ 8 PM ET

Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

Watch: FS1, Univision (TV); Fox Soccer 2Go, Fox Sports Go, UDN App (Streaming)

Prediction: 2-1 Argentina (AET): Another rematch, the same result. Like the how the US started against Colombia losing 2-0, Chile will lose on their rematch (both of last year's Copa America title and the opening game this Copa America) to Argentina. This will be the closest game for both teams, as both teams experienced routs on their way to the final. Lionel Messi will assist or score the GW goal. 

Prediction for Semi-Final #2

Who: Chile vs. Colombia
When: Wednesday, June 22 @ 8 PM ET
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Watch: FS1, Univision, (TV); FOX Sports Go, UDN App (Streaming)
How Chile Got Here: 1-2 L, 2-1 W, 4-2 W, 7-0 W
Started off by losing to Argentina before needing a penalty to beat Bolivia. Easily beat Panama and then routed Mexico. After the rout, Chile looks like a team ready to repeat as Copa America championship.
How Colombia Got Here: 2-0 W, 2-1 W, 2-3 L, 0-0 (4-2 PK) W
Handily got past the US, needed a wonderful stroke from Paraguay to make it close, then followed it up choking its first place position by losing to Costa Rica. Won in penalties over pesky Peru, this team can pull off the slight upset.
Prediction: 1-1 (4-3 in PK) Chile: This game will be much closer than the USA-Argentina game and will feature great defending, offense, and goalkeeping. Arturo Vidal will score in PKs and the goal in the 90 minutes for Chile, and will deliver his squad to the final for a rematch with Argentina.

Prediction for Semifinal #1

Who: USA vs. Argentina
When: Tuesday, June 21 @ 9 PM ET
Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Watch: FS1, Univision (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
How the US Got Here: 0-2 L, 4-0 W, 1-0 W, 2-1 W
Lost to Colombia in the opener before routing Costa Rica and narrowly beating Paraguay and Ecuador. The US have made expectations but will be missing some star players due to cards. They do have a ton of depth, though.

How Argentina Got Here: 2-1 W, 5-0 W, 3-0 W, 4-1 W
Easily beat all their opponents, Chile, Panama, Bolivia, and Venezuela, and look to be the clear favorite to win the tournament. Lionel Messi or not, this team is for real and is scary good.
Prediction: 2-0 Argentina: Argentina is too good to lose to a North American team. Sure, the US have met expectations and even surprised many, and Mexico had a 22 game unbeaten streak, but Argentina has more depth, more talent, and Lionel Messi. They will win, but the deficit will be closer than you expect.

Recaps: Routs Push Argentina and Chile Through

Two of the most hyped games of this tournament so far came to be two of the biggest routs of this tournament. In the first game, Argentina vs. Venezuela, Lionel Messi started his first game of the tournament and had a chance at goal when his chip from outside the box landed in the arms of Venezuela's keeper Daniel Hernandez. 2 minutes later, Messi's shot just went wide of the far post. In the 8th minute, Messi assisted on a goal after a beautiful cross was laid to Gonzalo Higuain, who tapped it past Hernandez. Messi thought he was fouled later in the 22nd when Arquimedes Figuera tripped him up, but there was no call. Higuain got another goal in the 28th when he intercepted Figuera's pass, danced around the keeper, and rolled the ball into the net. Venezuela had a couple of chances to make it 2-1, but nothing work. Argentina's Sergio Romero saved Solomon Rondon's blasting shot, and then Rondon's header hit the post. But the worst came in the 44th, when Venezuela had a chance from a penalty kick, Luis Seijas tried to do a slick chip, but Romero didn't have to move to stop the ball. Messi finally scored in the 60th when he got the ball from Nicolas Gaitan, and five-holed it past Hernandez. Rondon got one back when he skimmed a header that hit post and in, but Erik Lamela kept the score deficit at 3 when his slow shot deflected before going under Hernandez's hand. The US are the next to host Argentina.
             
              The other, more hyped game was Chile-Mexico. Mexico had a 22 game unbeaten streak, and Chile are the defending champs. However, the final score signified the exact opposite. Edson Puch scored in the 15th for Chile when Alexis Sanchez found Marcelo Diaz free outside the box. Diaz's shot was well blocked Mexico's keeper Guillermo Ochoa, but Puch was there for the tap in. In the 44th, minutes after  Eduardo Vargas's offside, disallowed goal, Vargas made it 2-0 for Chile when Jean Beausejour crossed the ball in for Vargas to strike in. The worst for Mexico came in the next 15 minutes, when they gave up 3 goals. In the 49th, Sanchez tapped in Arturo Vidal's pass. Vargas scored the next 3 for 4 goals overall in the game, scoring in the 52nd, 57th, and 74th minutes to make it 6-0. Vidal had two open chances, but those went just over the bar. The final score was 7-0, after Puch scored in the 87th to anger the Mexican fans. It was truly a historic night for both teams; for one excitement, and for the other team to forget quickly. Chile plays Colombia Wednesday in the semifinal.

Recap: Colombia Advances Through Penalties

Colombia became the second team to make the quarterfinals, winning 4-2 after a scoreless draw. During the game, Colombia had an early chance when Carlos Bacca had an early run and a chance that went straight to Peru's keeper Pedro Gallese. Peru's best oppurtunity in the first half came when Paulo Guerrero's cross to Edinson Flores was headed over. In the 22nd minute, Colombia's James Rodriguez had a curler just outside the box hit the right post and Bacca's rebound went wide of the other post. Rodriguez had a free kick early in the second half that went straight to Gallese. Bacca also had a chance when his header also went towards Gallese. The best chance from both sides came in the 2nd minute of injury time, when Christian Ramos' header forced Colombian keeper David Ospina to make a jump to prevent the ball to pass the line. In penalties, Rodriguez, Juan Cuadrado, Dayro Moreno, and Sebastian Perez converted their shots for Colombia. But, Peru's Miguel Trauco had his saved by Ospina's foot, and Christian Cueva had his shot go over the bar, sealing the win for the Colombians.

Predictions for Final Quarterfinals

Who: Argentina vs. Venezuela
When: Saturday, June 18 @ 7 PM ET
Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Watch: FX, Univision (TV); Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Argentina: Lionel Messi will be a part of both goals, and I think he may even start the game. Like Peru, Venezuela will end its Cinderella story against a way more efficient team. Argentina will score both its goals to avoid the upset and with the short rest coming up as they will have 2 days of fewer rest than their next opponents, the US.

Who: Chile vs. Mexico
When: Saturday, June 18 @ 10 PM ET
Where: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
Watch: FX, Univision (TV); Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-1 Mexico: This is the most highly anticipated match this round considering the US-Ecuador match is over. Both teams boast a strong offense, a good keeper, and favorites to win the trophy. However, Chile's keeper Claudio Bravo gave 2 goals to Panama on Monday, and Chile struggled against Bolivia and Argentina (with no Messi), while Mexico easily beat Uruguay and Jamaica before slightly struggling vs. Venezuela. Mexico wins and keeps their unbeaten streak alive.

Chile's Claudio Bravo can't have another bad day in net.

Recap: US Make It To Semis

The US prevailed in the first quarterfinal match by beating Ecuador 2-1. In the 22nd minute, the US got on the scoreboard when Bobby Wood passed back to Jermaine Jones, who crossed it into the box to see Clint Dempsey score on a wonderfully placed header. Dempsey managed to get over his defender and his header went easily past keeper Alexander Dominguez. In the 37th minute, the game started to become chippy. Antonio Valencia kicked US defender John Brooks in the chest, earning himself a yellow. Then, in the 52nd, Valencia kicked out Alejandro Bedoya's legs from behind, earning himself a second yellow and red. But, the US had to pay its consequences. A scuffle immediately happened, and Jones, who put his hand on Michael Arroyo's face, got a straight red. Jones, along with Wood and Bedoya's 2nd yellows of the tourney, are out next game. In the 65th, Gyasi Zardes scored after heading a cross to Dempsey, whose close range shot got tapped in by Zardes. The score made the US have a bit more leeway in the game. Ecuador would get one back in the 74th when Arroyo got a low cross and blasted it one time past US keeper Brad Guzan. Guzan preserved the US lead in the 45th from a nice kick save, but had no chance saving Arroyo's. Enner Valencia had the best chances for Ecuador's equalizer 3 and 4 minutes later, albeit those shots weren't on goal. Brooks almost scored an own goal in injury time, however, Guzan saved the day with another save.

Prediction for Quarterfinal #2

Who: Peru vs. Colombia
When: Friday. June 17 @ 8:30 PM ET
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Watch: FS1, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Colombia: Although Peru pulled a massive upset on Brazil, Colombia is too good of a team to fall to Peru, more or less be in a close scoreline game. Colombia will get two goals, even though I predict they will get plenty of more on target chances. Peru's run comes to an end here against the #3 ranked team in the world.

Paolo Guerrero is Peru's best bet to score goals this game.

Prediction for Quarterfinal #1

Before we get to the prediction, I went 12 for 24 on group stage predictions, getting the result right 12 out of 24 times. Also, I got 6 out of 8 teams predicted to make the quarterfinals, with my exceptions being Uruguay and Brazil.

Who: USA vs. Ecuador
When: Thursday, June 16 @ 9:30 PM ET
Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Watch: FS1, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 1-0 USA: With DeAndre Yedlin out, Ecuador could get some good crosses into the box. But US keeper Brad Guzan, alond with defender John Brooks, have been solid the last 2 games, shutting out Costa Rica and Paraguay. I believe the US can win this game, while close, and also shut out Ecuador. No extra time needed for this one.

I predict Clint Dempsey will for the 3rd time score the GW goal.

Recaps: Chile Secures Last Berth, Argentina Gets 1st

               The last of the group stage games ended with goals galore. In the first game, Chile vs. Panama, the winner would make the quarterfinal and the loser would be eliminated. Panama took an early lead in the 5th minute off a bad giveaway and Miguel Camargo's long range shot hit the hands of Chile keeper Claudio Bravo before falling into the net. After 10 minutes of pressuring, Chile got on the board after Alexis Sanchez's was saved by Panama's Jaime Penedo but the rebound was knocked in by Eduardo Vargas. Vargas would score again in the 43rd when he headed home a cross from Jean Beausejour. Chile would improve their lead in the 50th when a wide open Sanchez smashed the ball into the top of the netting. Abdiel Arroyo would get one back for Panama, who needed a win, in the 75th, when his header hit Bravo's hands and deflected into the side netting. However, Chile, who had 9 shots on target, sealed the win in the 89th when Sanchez had a header hit perfectly into the left side of the net. With the win, Chile are in as Group D runner-ups while Panama is eliminated.
               Because of the rout against Panama and Chile's low GD, Argentina would be first regardless of the upcoming result. Still, Argentina easily found the net when in the 13th Erik Lamela had a free kick deflected leaving Bolivia's keeper Carlos Lampe on the oppostite side where the ball was. Two minutes later, Ezequiel Lavezzi pounced on the rebound from Gonzalo Higuain's saved header that went straight to Lavezzi. It was 3-0 when Lavezzi's cross in the 32nd found Victor Cuesta who put it in the net. Lionel Messi came on right after halftime ended, and almost scored in the 53rd when his free kcik just curled wide. After the game, it was reported Argentina had 86.1% of the possession.

Recaps: Mexico Get 1st, Uruguay Win For What It's Worth

                Mexico continued its unbeaten streak, extending it to 22 games with a 1-1 draw with Venezuela. Venezuela would pull ahead in the 10th minute when Jose Velazquez scissor-kicked the ball into the roof of the net after retrieving a header following a free kick. Mexico's keeper Jesus Corona had no chance of the save, and Venezuela got the early lead. In the 45th, Mexico had an appeal for a handball in the penalty area when a Mexican header hit the arm of Wilker Angel, but the ref denied the PK chance. Mexico would still cause problems for Venezuela's keeper Daniel Hernandez, but he made seven saves on the night. His saves included a save from Chicharito in the 70th from Chicharito's header, and a fantastic double save in the 74th, stopping Diego Reyes' header and a point blank shot from Andres Guardado soon after. But Mexico would get the tie when Jesus M. Corona went through 5 defenders before slotting it past Hernandez, giving El Tri the tie and first place in the group.

Cavani had no goals at the Copa America 2016 tournament.

               With Mexico and Venezuela in, Jamaica and Uruguay had nothing to play for. Uruguay got 3 past Jamaica's keeper Andre Blake and his net for a 3-0 win. Blake, however, made many saves, including Abel Hernandez's shot and Edinson Cavani's chance that went straight to Blake. Cavani, despite many chances on net during the group stage, couldn't find the net at all throughout the tournament. Hernandez would score in the 21st when he was able to blast his strike into the top of the net just before Blake got to the ball. Hernandez caused more trouble for Jamaica, but Blake kept the game at 1-0 at the half. Jamaica had a chance to tie when Michael Hector had a curler, but Uruguay's Fernando Muslera saved it. It would be 2-0 when a Uruguay cross hit Hernandez and then Je-Vaughn Watson's hand before hitting the back of the net. Cavani's chances went begging, including kicking a defender instead of the ball, a begging ball  cleared away by Wes Morgan following a massive save from Blake, and a header way wide on the last play of the game. 3-0 would come in the 88th when sub Matias Corojo got the ball from Watson's error before striking it home. Now, both teams are now packing their bags home after disappointing showings at the tournament.

Recaps for Group D: Round 3

The final games of the group stage are here, with one determining who will be first and who will be last, and the other determining the final spot into the quarterfinals. Predictions we go:

Who: Chile vs. Panama @ 8 PM ET
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Watch: FS1, UniMas (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Chile: The game that decides a berth for one team and elimination for another is the last, most meaningful game of the group stage. Chile has struggled with offense, winning against Bolivia by a PK and scoring off a free kick against Argentina. But Panama just got routed by Argentina and Chile has always been crutch in do-or-die tournament games. Chile scores early, and then late to clinch the win.

Who: Argentina vs. Bolivia @ 10 PM ET
Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
Watch: FS1, UniMas (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 4-0 Argentina: It's hard to imagine whether Argentina will play actually, or just rest its starters for the quarterfinals. For me, I think they actually play to clinch first (they probably due to +6 GD) but will still win regardless starters or not. Lionel Messi comes on as a sub and scores at least twice to guarantee the win.
 Panama would need a win against defending champs to make it past the group stage.

Ecuador Cruises Past Haiti, Peru Advances on Controversial Goal

Group B did not fail to disappoint on Sunday's prime-time games as we saw Haiti be routed once again and Brazil in a game decided by one controversial call.
               The first game was Ecuador-Haiti. Ecuador needed a win to move on as the Group B runner-up, while Haiti had nothing to play for. Ecuador got off to the right start in the 11th minute when Enner Valencia put the ahead with a nice, low strike past Johnny Placide, Haiti's keeper. Placide would get beat 9 minutes later when Valencia was up against him, before Valencia dished it to Jaime Ayovi to tap in. Jerome Mechack had a header late in the game for Haiti, but it went off the crossbar and soon enough Ecuador's lead got bigger. In the 57th, Christian Noboa chested Jefferson Montero's cross before hitting the middle of the net. Ecuador would finish the scoring in the 78th when Valencia passed it a wide open Antonio Valencia, who walked into the net with the ball. Ecuador will face the US Thursday in the quarterfinals.

The goal that put Brazil out and Peru, champs.

                With Ecuador in, both teams knew that only one would make it past, and also win the group. Brazil started out of the gate strong with Peru's keeper Pedro Gallese stopping Filipe Luis' chance early before Gabriel's turn around shot was blocked by Gallese in the 26th. Three minutes earlier, Brazil claimed for a penalty when Christian Ramos ran into Lucas Lima. Then, Peru claimed for a penalty when Edison Flores went down from Renato Augusto. Gabriel had another chance with a powerful strike in the 41st, but Gallese deflected it away. In the last half, Philippe Coutinho had an attempt well saved by Gallese before the controversial call minutes later. In the 75th, Andy Polo went down the right side before crossing for Raul Ruidiaz, who clearly used his hand to put the ball in the net. After the goal, the assistant ref talked for two minutes with the official before allowing the goal. Even with 6 minutes of injury time, Brazil failed with any chances and lost the game, making Peru Group B champs and Brazil eliminated.

Predictions for Group C Round 3

Who: Mexico vs. Venezuela @ 8 PM ET
Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Watch: FS1, Univision (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-1 Mexico: A battle for placing in the quarterfinals has Mexico getting the 1 seed in Group C. Venezuela are certainly the Cinderella team this year, winning against Jamaica and co-favorites Uruguay. But Mexico is unbeaten in 21 straight matches, and the streak doesn't stop here. Plus, Mexico would most likely want to avoid Messi with the win.

Who: Uruguay vs. Jamaica @ 10 PM ET
Where: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
Watch: FS1, Univision (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Uruguay: Uruguay will finally have Luis Suarez as a sub, and Uruguay will finally win a Copa America game. This game is meaningless for both teams, but Uruguay sure doesn't want to end the tournament being a top 10 team in FIFA's rankings but not getting a win in the Copa America. Uruguay handily wins this one.

USA Advances, Colombia Get Upset and 2nd Place

In the first two games of round 3 of the group stage, there were 2 surprises that stood out. One was the standings of Group A, and the other, a shocking result from 2 teams.

                The first game was Paraguay-USA. The winner would advance to the next result, while the other would be eliminated. In the 11th minute, Paraguay had a 3-on-1 counterattack chance, but US defender John Brooks blocked Miguel Almiron's shot. Clint Dempsey had a free kick go over the bar minutes later, but Dempsey would find the net in the 27th. Gyasi Zardes was against 2 defenders on the end line, but managed to pass the ball into the box, where Dempsey struck it home for a 1-0 lead. After US keeper Brad Guzan stifled a header from close range, Paraguay had yet another chance to score when Dario Lezcano was alone with Guzan, but once again Guzan stopped the shot. Tempers became loud as DeAndre Yedlin of the US got two yellows seconds apart after two tackles on the Miguel's, the first on Almiron, the second on Samudio. Nevertheless, US still had chances including a Zardes chance that went straight to the keeper. Paraguay would still have chances, though Guzan came up big with 2 shots saved with his feet from Almiron and Jorge Benitez. Paraguay found the net in the 89th, but the goal was offside and disallowed, allowing the US to win and move on.

                With the US win, Costa Rica was eliminated but still going strong. Colombia had 10 of its starters rested because of the clinched berth, but it determined Colombia's place. In the 2nd, Costa Rica's Johan Venegas curled one into the far right post for a quick lead. Five minutes later, Frank Fabra got a nice pass and poked the ball past Costa Rican keeper Pat Pemberton. Fabra would score another one, but this one was an own goal after accidently hitting a Costa Rican cross into the wrong net. Costa Rica kept the scoring going in the 58th when Celso Borges fired in a Bryan Oveido cross. Colombia would get one back with Marlos Moreno's header, but Costa Rica held on for the win. Colombia, because of the loss, finished 2nd, and the US ended 1st.

Group B: Round 3 Predictions

Who: Ecuador vs. Haiti @ 6:30 PM ET
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Watch: FS2, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 3-0 Ecuador: Ecuador is simply the better team than Haiti and will want to win by a lot to certify a spot if there is a 3 way tie between Brazil, Peru, and them. Haiti has nothing to play for but spoiler, but they aren't going to help Brazil anyway after their 7-1 loss.

Who: Brazil vs. Peru @ 8:30 PM ET
Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Watch: FS1, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Brazil: Brazil is a better team, and found a way to find consistency throughout the match last week. Peru is not Haiti, but they are not as talented as Peru. They will fight, but fall up short when they realize Ecuador won against Haiti

Who Will Make It?: 1st: Brazil and 2nd: Ecuador 

Possible Scenarios For Each Team

As Round 3 of the group stage kicks off tonight, here's how each team can make it to the quarterfinals:

Group A
Colombia: Clinched a spot, clinches first with a win/tie, or US loss/tie
USA: Clinches spot with win OR tie and Costa Rica result other than Costa Rica winning by 6+ goals; Eliminated with loss
Paraguay: Clinches spot with win AND Costa Rica loss/tie, Eliminated with loss/tie
Costa Rica: Clinches spot with US tie/loss and win, AND Also wins tiebreaker of GD, Eliminated with loss/tie

Group B
Brazil: Clinches spot with win/tie; Eliminated with loss
Peru: Clinches spot with win OR tie/loss and Ecuador tie/loss, Eliminated with tie/loss AND Ecuador win
Ecuador: Clinches spot with win AND Peru/Brazil loss; Eliminated with loss/tie
Haiti: Eliminated

Group C
Mexico: Clinched a spot, Cliches first with with win/tie
Venezuela: Cliched a spot, cliches first with win
Jamaica: Eliminated
Uruguay: Eliminated

Group D
Argentina: Clinched a spot, clinches first with win/tie OR Chile tie
Chile: Clinches spot with win/tie; Eliminated with loss
Panama: Clinches spot with win; Eliminated with tie/loss
Bolivia: Eliminated  

Lionel Messi shines with Hat Trick, Chile Win by PK

As the Copa America moves on, the games get better and better. Friday's games did not disappoint, as viewers saw Lionel Mess play on US soil and Chile win with a PK in the 100th MINUTE. Recaps we go:
             Chile vs. Bolivia was put as a must win for both teams, as the loser could possibly be eliminated. After tons of chances in the first half, along with tons of stalling during restart plays from Bolivia, Chile entered the locker room scoreless, and tied, after 45 minutes. But, the fury was released when Arturo Vidal got a nice give and go from his teammate Alexis Sanchez and scored 30 seconds into the last half. Vidal easily took care of the ball and slid it past keeper Carlos Lampe. In the 61st minute, Bolivia tied from a goal-of-the-tournament strike from Jhasmani Campos. Campos' free kick curled from outside to inside the back net, thanks from a lucky hit off the crossball and tip of the ball from Chile's keeper Claudio Bravo. Stoppage time would get horrific, as Ronald Eguino was kicked in the head, 8 minutes were added on, and a late penalty from Chile after a controversial handball on Luis Gutierrez. Vidal converted the PK, however, Bolivia nearly tied it a minute later in the 101st when Rodrigo Ramallo's shot hit the skinned the right post. With the loss, Bolivia is eliminated.
             Argentina vs. Panama saw a battle for first place and the return of Messi. Argentina would strike first when Nicolas Otamendi headed a nice free kick cross from Angel di Maria into the back of the net in the 7th minute of play. Di Maria got injured, though in the 43rd minute, and was subbed off. Panama's luck continued to worsen as Anibal Godoy slapped an Argentinean player and reeived his 2nd yellow in the 31st. As Messi came on in the 61st, fans stood and clapped for the entrance of their most favorite superstar. He would not disappoint, scoring 3 goals in the 68th, 78th, and 87th minute. The first, a ball hit off Gonzalo Higuain's face which fell to Messi, who struck in the left side of the net. The second was a free kick that curled inward, into the top left corner of the net. And the third, a little chip past Panama' Jaime Penedo. Argentina would finish the scoring as Messi got an assist off an excellent cross that was sent to Marcos Rojo, who headed it to Sergio Aguero to head in from close range. Argentina has qualified to the quarterfinals, while Panama will have to fight for second against Chile on Tuesday.

Predictions: Group A, Round 3

                     The predictions for the last round of group play has began. Along with my predictions on who win/tie the matches, I will also put the two teams advancing based off the current standings AND my predictions.

Who: USA vs. Paraguay @ 7 PM ET
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Watch: FS1, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-1 USA: This will hopefully be a much closer match than the US-Costa Rica game. The US have always stepped up when in the face of elimination, but as long the US get a non-losing result, the US should be in. A lead will be key, as it basically puts Paraguay in a 2 goal hole. There should be no need for the US to watch the later game, which is:

Who: Colombia vs. Costa Rica @ 9 PM ET
Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Watch: FS2, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 1-1: Costa Rica will be pressing early, but Colombia are just too good of a team to concede tons of goals. Colombia will allow a sensational goal from los ticos, but Costa Rica don't have enough to win. Also, Colombia may want to get a point to be first place in Group A.

Who Will Make It?: 1st: Colombia and 2nd: USA

Recaps: Uruguay-Venezuela and Jamaica-Mexico

                 A day with 2 down to the wire of games, Thursday provided drama, heart break, and joy to fans of the sport. The first of these two games was Uruguay vs. Venezuela. Uruguay's leading scorer overall, Luis Suarez, was listed as injured, and wasn't under the substitution category nor the starting XI. After both teams caused early offensive pressure, the scoring broke open in the 36th minute, after Salomon Rondon's close, kind of mishit, bouncing shot. After Alejandro Guerra stole the ball, he caught Uruguay's keeper Fernando Muslera off his line. He blasted a 58 yard shot, that tipped off Muslera's hand, off the crossbar, and in the box. Rondon capitalized on it to give his side the lead. Venezuela almost doubled their goal total, after a no-penalty call lead to a counterattack that had Adalbento Penaranta shooting one from outside the box. Muslera made a foot save and covered it up. In the 90th minute, Edinson Cavani had a great chance to tie. After juking a defender, he had a golden 1-on-1 chance, but his shot went off frame to the right. Cavani had another chance a minute later, but his mishit the bouncing ball and went straight to the keeper. Uruguay's Suarez, though, was the talk of the match. Suarez acted like he was a sub, warming up, and doing some drills, and demanding the staff to be put in. However, he could not be put in, and the frustration showed as Uruguay is eliminated from the tourney.
                With Venezuela in and Uruguay out, Mexico needed just a win to secure its placed in the final 8. They got off to the best start possible in the 18th when Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez scored off a headed cross from Jesus Corona. Before then, Jamaica had a great chance to lead in the seventh when Clayton Donaldson's clean shot on goal was wide. In the 39th, Mexican keeper Guillermo Ochoa made a point blank save from Michael Hector. Jamaica then was furious about a no-call penalty in the 64th when Donaldson fell down after being tackled by Corona. Donaldson had another chance in the 68th but his left footed shot went just wide right. Oribe Peralta would seal the win in the 81st when his left footed shot hit the right post and in from close range. With the win, Jamaica is eliminated and Mexico would face Venezuela for the battle for first place Monday.

Salomon Rondon after the game winner.

Predictions for June 10

Who: Chile vs. Bolivia @ 7 PM ET
Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
Watch: FOX, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 3-0 Chile: In a must win for both teams, I believe the defending champions will easily roll by Bolivia and put on the brink of elimination. Bolivia's best chance to win, like Haiti and Jamaica, passed by, and will need at least an upset to move on. I do not see that happening over the current champs.

Who: Argentina vs. Panama @ 9:30 PM ET
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Watch: FOX, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Soccer 2Go, Fox Sports Go, UDN App (streaming)
Prediction: 3-0 Argentina: Another 3-0 prediction? On the same night? Well, Argentina is simply the better team, but last World Cup, and still today, they play more defensively, even with a well-known offense. Hopefully we can finally see Lionel Messi play a meaningful game in the US, who is still recovering from an injury. Messi or no Messi is a gamechanger, but it will truly be a shock if Argentina has trouble not destroying Panama.

After last week's win, Panama would need a huge upset to get at least a point.

Recaps: Brazil-Haiti and Ecuador-Peru

               Yesterday marked the start of Round 2 for Group B. Brazil vs. Haiti got off to a fast start after their disappointing draw against Ecuador. After a high free kick from Willian in the second minute and then having Philippe Coutinho force Haiti keeper Johnny Placide with a save minutes later, Coutinho finally put Brazil on the board when he shot inside Placide's right post from outside the box in the 15th. 15 minutes later, 2-0 was on the board, as Coutinho scored into an open net after Dani Alves' 1-on-1 chance was blocked by Haiti's defenders. 20 minutes after the first goal, 3-0 came. Alves got the ball back from Placide after his save, and sent in a cross that had open Renato Augusto who easily made a goal. Gabriel Barbosa made it 4 in the 59th when Elias gave him a through ball for him to pounce on and shoot past Placide. Lucas Lima, an early sub, scored the fifth in the 67th, when Alves assisted thanks to another cross. Haiti would score to end the clean sheet, when Allison made a close range save which deflected out of his hands. James Marcelin was open found the bouncing ball, ran to it, and lashed it into an open net to provide a heartwarming moment for Haiti's people and fans. Placide would make several saves (6 overall), including preventing Willian to score in the 83rd, but it became six when Augusto got a loose pass and scored. Coutinho would complete his hat trick and the 7-1 score on the final play of the game. Haiti has been eliminated from quarterfinal contention.
               The other Group B game was Ecuador-Peru. Just like the other game, the scoring came early as in the fifth minute, Peru's Christian Cueva scored a sensational goal after spinning around, nutmegging a defender, and ceasing on the 1-on-1 chance with a goal. Peru made it 2 eight minutes later when Edison Flores scored. Flores span around his defender too, and shot a difficult strike just outside the box inside the left area of the goal. Ecuador would come back in the game with 2 of its own. The first was Enner Valencia beating keeper Pedro Gallese. Valencia patted the crossing ball with his cross, beating the keeper to make it 2-1. And Ecuador would complete the comeback in the 48th when Jefferson Molano made it a 3-on-1, who crossed it to Miller Bolanos to tie it all up. Gabriel Achilier got a second yellow on a tackle in the 92nd, and will not be playing in Ecuador's group stage finale.
               

Predictions for June 9

Who: Uruguay vs. Venezuela @ 7:30 PM ET
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Watch: FS1, UDN, UniMas (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-1 Uruguay: Hoping Luis Suarez starts for Uruguay, I predict Uruguay will win by this score. However, without him, it's much different. Uruguay struggled offensively Sunday against Mexico, with their only goal from a set piece header. Without him, I see Venezuela contending and possibly getting a upset win or a draw.

Who: Mexico vs. Jamaica @ 10 PM ET
Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
Watch: FS1, Univision (TV); Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go (Streaming)

Luis Suarez of Uruguay could play against Venezuela.

Prediction: 3-0 Mexico: Sorry, Reggae Boyz, I don't see the upset. Mexico destroyed and controlled easily the other co-favorite 3-1, with or without the extra man. For Jamaica, their best chance to advance past last Sunday, with 1-0 loss playing with a man down. I see Hector Herrera and Chicharito scoring at least ONCE for Mexico.

Recaps: USA-Costa Rica and Colombia-Paraguay

              After a disappointing loss last Friday, the US needed a result to advance out of the group. Indeed they did, beating the los ticos 4-0. The US took the lead off a PK from Clint Dempsey in the 9th minute. The PK was awarded when Bobby Wood got pushed down from Christian Gamboa during a USA cross. The goal turned down the early pace Costa Rica had, and suddenly the US had the more of possession. Gyasi Zardes had some chances for the US, but he failed to convert. It was 2-0 when Dempsey ran down the field with the ball, before passing to an open Jermaine Jones, whose far right shot went inside the net and past the hand of Costa Rica's keeper Pat Pemberton. It was three-nil in the 42nd minute, 5 minutes after the second goal, when Dempsey got another assisting after passing to Wood, who was just in the box and fired one to Pemberton's right. He got a piece of it, but the ball redirected into the net. In the last half, Costa Rica started to own more possession, but couldn't produce goals. They got close in the 67th, when Bryan Ruiz had a header hit the left post. Graham Zusi, a late sub, made it 4-0 in the 87th when he stole the ball and shot it to his right, just past Pemberton. The US is currently 2nd place in Group A.
           The later game was Colombia-Paraguay. Like the US, Colombia got off to a fast start in the 12th minute. James Rodriguez sent in a nice corner, and defender Carlos Bacca headed it in for a 1-0 lead. In the 30th, Rodriguez would score after a chaotic turn of events. After a turnover by Paraguay, Colombia had some tricky passing in the box, before it sent Rodriguez open in the box striking a blazing shot past keeper Justo Villar. Paraguay would come close many times but it was not enough. In the last play of the first half, Dario Lezcano's free kick caromed of the crossbar. Another play came when David Ospina of Colombia robbed Victor Ayala's crowded header in traffic. Ayala would bring his team within 1 with his beatifully executed long range shot in the 71st, but their comeback ended when Oscar Romero got two yellows in the 79th and 81st, putting Paraguay to 10. With the win, Colombia has advanced to the quarterfinals. 

Predictions for June 8

Who: Brazil vs. Haiti @ 7:30 PM ET
Where: Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
Watch: FS1, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN app (Streaming)
Prediction: 2-0 Brazil: A week ago I would maybe say 3-0 but their weak performance on Saturday abolished that idea. Brazil SHOULD have their chances, and they are by far a better team than Haiti. However, the struggle like Saturday could continue with inconsistency. My opinion? They will still have weak points, but they are a much better team.

Who: Peru vs. Ecuador @ 10 PM ET
Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
Watch: FS2, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN App (Streaming)
Prediction: 1-0 Ecuador: Given the lack of scoring this tournament, I expect the scoreline to be close, though the play of both teams may not be. Ecuador is clearly the favorite over these S. American teams, and something other than a win would be shocking. Still, Ecuador will produce many shots, and will take the lone goal for the 3 points.
 Ecuador's squad

Recaps: Panama-Bolivia and Argentina-Chile

               The first Group D matches proved to be entertaining to watch and good football to see. The first game was Panama vs. Bolivia. Like many, I predicted Panama to have not a chance to get out of the group, but this result surprised me and many others. Blas Perez put Panama up in the 11th after getting a nice pass from Alberto Quintero and firing the ball past Bolivian keeper Carlos Lampe. After a deflection from a well-taken free kick from Martin Smedberg-Dalencr, Juan Carlos Arce leveled it for his squad with a rifle of a shot in the 54th minute. Bolivia had a golden opportunity for the game winner in the 85th when Luis Tejada had tons of space in Panama's box, but he shot it high and wide. Two minutes later, it stung Tejada as Perez scored again, this one the winner, driving in a ball into an open net after a nice cross from Abdiel Arroyo. With the win Panama are in the polar opposite sides of Group C, with Bolivia last and Panama first.

               The other game was Argentina-Chile, a rematch of Copa America's final last year, which Chile won (in penalties). This game was a fantasy for everyone who loves soccer and offense, as shots, counters, and chances were galore. Superstar Lionel Messi of Argentina was from the bench but did not come on to the field as he is recovering from an injury. However, his side did not need him. In the 2nd second minute, Argentina's first of many chances was a Nicolas Gaitan header that hit the crossbar and out. Angel Di Maria also caused problems with some chances, but his shots were wide or at the Chile keeper Claudio Bravo. Chile's best chance of the half was when Argentina keeper blocked Alexis Sanchez's shot in the 29th minute, and Sanchez's free kick 6 minutes later. Entering the match scoreless was a disappointment for Argentina, but they scored immediately into the last half. In the 51st, off a giveaway, Di Maria found the ball after a pass from Ever Banega and struck it with his left inside Bravo's left post for a 1-0 lead. Di Maria would repay Banega later when he assisted with a goal that saw Banega's reminiscient shot of the first goal take a deflection for a 2-0 lead. In the 85th, sub Sergio Aguero almost it 3 when his header had a chance but was wide. Chile would pull one back in the last minute off a header from a free kick by Jose Fuenzalida, but it was too late to tie.

Predictions for Group A: Round 2

Who: Colombia vs. Paraguay
Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA

Watch: FS1, UDN. UniMas (TV); Fox Sports Go (streaming)                                                Prediction: 2-0 Colombia: Colombia showed the world that they are no joke about being #3 in the FIFA rankings, by easily defeating the US 2-0 Friday. I believe, that because of their simple defeat of the US, they will also beat handily Paraguay with at least a 2-0 score. This will help the winner of Costa Rica-US by handing the winner a opportunity at advancing. 

Who: USA vs. Costa Rica
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Watch: FS1, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Soccer Go, UDN App (streaming)
Prediction: 2-1 US: I believe the US have what it takes to win a must-win game. They have done it earlier this year against Guatemala, which they have won 4-0, but Costa Rica is no Guatemala. They may not be as good without Keylor Navas, or as good as the 2014 WC squad, but they can get tough points. That said, I think the US will win at home and get the points they need before the finale against Venezuela. Expect tons of shots from each side.

US squad ready for a second chance against Costa Rica.

Recaps: Jamaica vs. Venezuela and Mexico-Uruguay

The other game was Mexico vs. Uruguay. Mexico took a quick lead in the 4th minute off Uruguay's Alvaro Pereira scored off Andres Guardaro. Guardado intended for Hector Herrera, but his mistimed his jump and hit an unaware Pereira. Things kept on looking high for El Tri when Uruguay's Matias Vecino was sent off in the 45th with his second yellow following a mistimed tackle. Without Luis Suarez (injured), Uruguay had trouble the entire game. Their only shot on goal in the first half was from Edinson Cavani's chance, but El Tri's keeper Alfredo Talavera quickly came out and stopped it. In the second, Mexico came out slow, and Uruguay made Mexico punished. Guardado caused a foul that earned his second yellow, losing Mexico's advantage and earning Uruguay a free kick that led to their only goal. Diego Godin headed one outside the six yard box following the kick, giving the game at the time, a stalemate. Mexico would break it in the 85th, when Rafa Marquez fired one from a tight angle up high just under the crossbar for a 2-1 lead. Mexico would seal in the 92nd, when Herrera headed in a cross from Raul Jimenez for the win. Mexico leads Group C, with Uruguay at the bottom.  Uruguay vs. Jamaica

The first game yesterday was Jamaica vs. Venezuela. Before the main moment of the match, Jamaica's Je-Vaughn Watson had a header hit the crossbar in the 12th minute. 3 minutes later, it came to punish Jamaica. Josef Martinez got a good pass from Arquimedes Figuera and shot it five hole past keeper Andre Blake for a 1-0 lead. 10 minutes, Jamaica found itself on the wrong side of luck. After a "studs-up" tackle Tomas Rincon, cap Rodolph Austin was sent off with a straight red, albeit he got a piece of the ball on the tackle. This allowed Venezuela to stop the Jamaica counters, and to get more possession. Jamaica would not go down without a fight. Michael Hector had a curler hit the post in the 50th minute, and Jamaica had some nice counter plays, but none would work. Blake would come up big for his team, in the 70th, stopping a diving header from Wilker Angel by diving himself, stopping the ball with his arm, and recovered nicely to try and stop Salomon Rondon's blasted from point blank. Jamaica could not get a goal, and Venezuela held on for the win. They both play their next games June 9.

Recaps: Peru-Haiti and Brazil-Ecuador

              In the second match of Saturday's tripleheader came an up-and-down match. Peru prevailed in the must win game, 1-0, while Haiti will rue its last moment chance. Peru striker Paolo Guerrero shot a volleyed effort wide and high over the net in the 39th minute. Minutes earlier, Haiti's Mechak Jerome just missed his free kick, which went over the crossbar. In the 45th, Guerrero laid a nice pass to Edison Flores, whose shot from 25 yards struck the side of the post, but somehow stayed in play. Flores would eventually make it up for Peru and Guerrero by giving him a cross that had Guerrero easily head it in from six yards out without being manned (below, celebrating with #10 Jeff Louis after the goal). The 60th minute goal made Guerrero Peru's all time leading scorer. Haiti's best chance of the game came 40 seconds before the end. Sub Kervens Belfort was amazingly open along with a teammate 4 yards from goal after the free kick, but he mishit the ball, and it went agonizingly wide of the goal. With the result, Peru is in first, while Haiti, last.

            The other Group B match was also entertaining between Brazil and Ecuador. With most of Brazil's well known stars resting for the Olympics later this summer, Brazil struggled offensively and the second scoreless of the day came to life. Brazil mostly had long range shot, including Philippe Coutinho's 25 yard wide strike in the 17th minute. In the 36th minute, Ecuador's free kick from Enner Valencia was covered by Brazil's keeper Alisson. In the 66th minute was when the controversy came. After a nice pass from Antonio Valencia, Miller Bolanos fired a shot straight to the keeper off the end line. Alisson bobbled the ball and gaffed up the ball into his own net (below, left). However, the assistant ref ruled the ball passed the end line, though replays showed the main part of the ball was on the line.In the 75th, Brazil tried its luck from long out, but Lucas Moura's shot blazed over the crossbar. The closest chance for Brazil came in the 85th, when Moura's header inside the ball hit the side netting ruining Brazil's chances at 3 points. But, Brazil should be pleased, considering the controversial no-goal.

Predictions for June 6

Below are my predictions for the Group D matches this upcoming Monday, June 6:

Who: Panama vs. Bolivia @ 7 PM ET
Where: Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
Watch: FS1, UniMas UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN App (streaming)
Prediction: 1-0 Bolivia: Like the Group B game with Peru and Haiti, this is a must win game for both squads if they want to have just a percent of making it past their group. I think Panama will struggle with its offense and its opportunities throughout this tournament, while Bolivia may have trouble defending. However, Bolivia, I predict, will create chances in front of Panama's net and score at least once for the win.

Who: Argentina vs. Chile @ 10 PM
Where: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
Watch: FS1, UniMas, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN App (streaming)
Prediction: 1-1: the last game of round 1 of the group stage is sure to be entertaining. A rematch of last year's final, both are given high chances and both will disappointed if they do not host the trophy. Since these 2 squads are so evenly matched, I see a tense battle but no clear winner, so a 1-1 draw is what I see. Great goalkeeping, talented offenses, and solid defending is what makes a soccer match so exciting, and this could be the best soccer game this tournament. Each team, though, could be happy or disappointed with the result.
 Argentina's Lionel Messi could be a huge impact for Argentina's chances at winning the whole tournament.

Costa Rica vs. Paraguay

After a thrilling match between Colombia and the US, the next match was a snoozer as there a scoreless draw between the two teams. With 5 yellows and a red card, the most entertaining part of the game, some might say, was the water break in each half. In the 15th minute, Paraguay's Paulo de Silva headed a ball just wide off a corner. Two minutes later, Costa Rica had a chance when mid Bryan Ruiz headed one to Paraguay keeper Justo Villar. Villar would make 3 more saves, including his punch off Christian Bolanos' strike in the 88th. Costa Rica's keeper Pat Pemberton would make his only save from Bruno Valdez's mistimed header in the 47th. One of the rare snooze parts of the match came in the final minute when Costa Rica's Kendall Watson recklessly fouled Nelson Valdez. Watson was behind Valdez, and had no chance of getting the far ahead ball. Watson got a red, and will miss the game against USA on Tuesday.  Ref shows red to Watson (19) after harsh tackle on Valdez (on ground).

Predictions for June 5

After last night's thrilling opener, we now look forward to 3 games tomorrow and a barrage of "2 games a day" for nearly two weeks. Here are my predictions for the game this Sunday:

Who: Jamaica vs. Venezuela @ 5 PM ET
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL

Watch: FOX, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN app (streaming)

Prediction: 1-1: Jamaica will be pleased with a tie, while Venezuela will be disappointed that their tournament woes will continue. Jamaica could very well be the 2014 Costa Rica squad (they're from Latin America, placed in a hard group, and have a strong keeper in Andre Blake; who's below next to ball). I expect Venezuela struggling with most of their chances, and Jamaica getting only a few shots, but they make it count with an eventual equalizer. 

Who: Mexico vs. Uruguay @ 8 PM ET

Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

Watch: FS1, Univision, UDN (TV); Fox Sports Go, UDN app (streaming)

Prediction: 2-1: Like I predicted in the group stage article, this could be very well entertaining. Expect Mexico and Uruguay to trade goals in the first half, before I see Luis Suarez score the game winner for Uruguay in the last half. I also see great goalkeeping from Uruguay's Fernando Muslera and Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa (or whoever starts for Mexico). I see Edinson Cavani (Uruguay) and Javier Hernandez (Mexico; below) also scoring.