Knockout Stages Facts and Figures

This World Cup started off breaking records when Russia recorded the biggest margin of victory by the hosts in an opening World Cup game since 1934. Since that first game, this World Cup has not failed to deliver.

We mentioned the introduction of VAR in a previously article Could VAR be England’s 12th Man? and we have certainly seen its effect through the number of penalties awarded. There have been 18 across the Group stages, this culminates to more than any other previous World Cup, even before the knockout rounds start.

Is the Tide Changing for Old Rivals?

Italy didn’t qualify, Germany are out, Argentina are struggling yet England recorded their biggest win in World Cup history, beating Panama 6-1. Who would have thought that would be the case, especially with England coming into this World Cup with the youngest average squad age (26) in the whole tournament.

With the favourites struggling, from England’s perspective its really opened up that half of the draw following their defeat to Belgium and arguably looks a lot easier on paper. Colombia will prove a stern test, Sweden or Switzerland will be dogged but I think you would much prefer to face any of those sides rather than the likes of Brazil and France.

It’s a real possibility that England could reach the Semi Final, potentially facing an ageing Spanish side that they would fancy their chances against. Ok granted Spain have lots of match winners, have been there and done it before but given the alternatives I think any England fan would take having a shot at them. With that said Spain still have to potentially navigate a tricky tie in the Quarter Finals against the SPORTSvox selection Denmark. Granted Croatia have been playing some great football. They have talent across the pitch, but underestimate Denmark at your peril. They can play, are well organised, extremely fit and will fancy their chances against anyone.

SPORTSvox Knockout Predictions

Samba Boys to Shine in Russia?

If you are a genuine football fan you probably have Brazil as your ‘alternative’ team. Always entertaining, full of tricks, great goals and special players, but this team has more than just flair in their armory. As Dunga was famously labeled they have a couple of ‘water carriers’ who can also play some football in Fernandinho and Paulhino. The latter an ever present and seems to thrive in his current role. Brazil seem to be just starting to click and although France have some young, raw talent in their side, I just think overall Brazil have a bit more between the ears to get through.

Ronaldo, Messi etc you haven’t mentioned them, surely they will feature in the knockout stages? Well they might for a game or two but i just don’t think the team(s) around them are good enough to compete with the rest in that side of the draw. Argentina may well have the best attacking force in the competition, but they don’t know how to play together and are weak at the back in my opinion. Ronaldo, sorry Portugal are very reliant on one player and almost expect him to produce every game. More often than not he does but you cannot rely on that in every game.

Uruguay will give anyone a game, solid at the back and with one of my favourite players in Suarez upfront you will always have a chance. Not sure what they will be like if they go behind, they have a game plan and execute very well. Taken out of that comfort zone it will be interesting to see how they perform.

My Name is Harry Kane and I have Golden Boot

You could say that attack is the best form of defence for England and one player that has benefited from Southgate’s approach is Harry Kane. Having scored 5 goals already and leading the Top Goalscorer charts there is no reason why Kane should not go on and secure the first English winner of the Golden Boot since Gary Lineker in Mexico 1986.

Based on the stats so far and who we think will progress in the latter stages I only see two potential threats for Kane. If Spain are to progress then Costa will have to continue his great return so far from this World Cup.

• Diego Costa – Matches Played (3) Shots on Target (3) Goals Scored (3)

Spain play Russia who although have performed well so far, got hammered by Uruguay and I think an on form Spanish side will put a few past them in the last 16.

The other threat comes in the form of a player well know to fans of the Premier League, Romelu Lukaku. Already scoring 4 goals in just two starts, Lukaku is a real hand full for defences and a lightweight Japan might really struggle to contain the big man.

• Romelu Lukaku – Matches Played (2) Shots on Target (4) Goals Scored (4)

For all of the talent in the Belgium squad i think their journey ends against Brazil and therefore if Kane can get his total to 7 overall I think he will remain in front.

Pre Tournament Harry Kane was around 12/1 to lift the Golden Boot and was featured in our Race for The Golden Boot article. He is now 6/4 to take the mantle, everyone here at SPORTSvox will be cheering him on.