World Cup Picks

We're into the second round of the World Cup now, and since I've been following it fairly closely, I'm going to make some picks for the second round:

Germany over Sweden
The Swedes have looked sharp so far, especially in their last game against England. Still, I have to go with the home side, who dominated group A.

Argentina over Mexico
Mexico came into the tournament thinking they had a real chance to win, but so far they haven't played up to the expectations. Argentina, on the other hand, has looked like the best team in the tournament so far.

England over Ecuador
My English side has been pretty shakey so far, but I'm still going to pick them to win. After two early wins, Ecuador's offense has been figured out, and I think England will murder them even without Michael Owen.

Portugal over Netherlands
This one I'm definitely not sure about. Both teams have been playing very well, but I think Portugal is a little more on their game.

Italy over Australia
I don't think this one is as safe a bet as most people would think. Australia has been the big surprise of the tournament, and looked sharp even in their loss to Brazil. Nonetheless, Italy came out on top of the Group of Death, and it's hard to argue against such a powerhouse country.

Switzerland over Ukraine
Neither team is known as a great soccer nation, but the Swiss have looked sharp while the Ukraine made it through second in a weak group.

Brazil over Ghana
Ghana has been an exciting team to follow, but it's hard to think they have much of a chance against Brazil.

Spain over France
France has looked dull, making it through on a couple of lucky ties and a win Togo, the worst team in the tournament. Spain, on the other hand, has been extremely good so far.

So yes, I picked all the group winners to move on to the next round. Not a bold prediction, but an honest one. Oh, and right now I'm going to predict Argentina over Brazil in the final.