Day 10 of the World Cup brings major pressure in Groups E and F, with teams like Netherlands, Germany, and Ecuador all stepping into critical second group-stage matches.
Netherlands vs. Sweden
Ronald Koeman’s Team Oranje have a tough task against their European rival from the north.
Sweden sits on top of the Group F table, which is surprising given their dismal performances during qualification. The Dutch were not all that convincing in their opener, conceding a late goal against Japan that sealed a 2-2 draw.
A victory here would be a big step forward for the Netherlands as the favorite to win the group. For the most part, Sweden had its way with Tunisia, the weakest team in the group, but do not expect Sweden to have the same space and time in the final third against the Dutch.
There are also suspect signs defensively, where Sweden could be vulnerable to the counterattack. This is the game of the day, and it will help determine if the Netherlands is indeed a legit contender for the Cup.Pro Paul’s Pick: Netherlands wins.
Germany vs. Ivory Coast
After an initial scare, Die Mannschaft ripped off goal after goal, defeating newcomer Curaçao 7-1 and restoring Germany’s status as a legit contender to hoist the Cup.
Ivory Coast has so much talent and will be hoping to carry the momentum from its heroic winning goal in the last game. The Elephants are powerful, athletic, and capable of creating danger in transition, which should make this a mouthwatering soccer match from start to finish.
Both Germany and Ivory Coast are trying to book a trip to the knockout Round of 32. Germany has the experience and attacking rhythm, but Ivory Coast will not make this easy.Pro Paul’s Pick: Germany wins.
Ecuador vs. Curaçao
From possession to momentum, Ecuador was the better side in its opener but came up short with a heartbreaking loss.
Now Ecuador needs to bounce back and secure a victory and three points, especially because they face Germany in their final group match, which will likely determine their fate.
Curaçao knows how tough this game will be, especially knowing just how good Ecuador is. They will be determined, organized, and passionate, but there should also be a fiery intimidation factor in the back of their minds. Ecuador may have lost its opener, but their South American quality is real.
Expect Ecuador to come out aggressive, push the pace, and create enough chances to finally break through.Pro Paul’s Pick: Ecuador wins and over 2.5 total goals.
Tunisia vs. Japan
This game marks the 1,000th FIFA World Cup match, though I do not think that adds much flavor to the mix for either team.
Japan is on fire, bringing skill, calm, poise, and confidence into this match after tying 2-2 with the mighty Dutch. Tunisia, on the other hand, enters after taking a thumping from Sweden, conceding five goals in a 5-1 opening loss.
Japan will be without star player Takefusa Kubo, who left the field and has been ruled out due to a knee injury. Normally, an injury to such an elite player would drastically hinder a team, but in Japan’s case, they have depth, flexibility, and enough quality to adjust.
Anticipate Tunisia to open up its game and become more aggressive offensively in an effort to recover from the huge loss to Sweden. That should create more space for the Japanese attack, allowing Japan to use its quick passing and movement to find chances.
