It's time for predictions. All the top teams have made it to the quarters. The road to the semi finals is full of speed bumps and potholes and the team that negotiates these tight curves and bends best will reach the top four. Ahead of the epic clashes, we pick our favourites:
France vs Germany
This one is steeped in history. Ever since that infamous World Cup semi final clash in 1982, every time these two teams meet there is a very palpable sense of something going off.
Both teams have world class players who can change the course of the game with a special performance. The match would be particularly interesting in some of the personal clashes that it has in the offing. Pogba vs. Khedira; Muller vs. Benzema; Lloris vs. Neuer.
It is a tough match up, but Germany just might edge through simply due to experience. French look a little raw around the edges and the Germans could just about scrape through.
Prediction: Germany
Brazil vs. Colombia
The hosts were one of the favourites to win the tournament ahead of the June 12 kick off. But as the tournament has progressed, chinks have started to emerge in Luiz Felipe Scolari's side. The biggest concern is the error-prone defense and a lack of a quality striker up front.
Over reliance on Neymar for goals leaves Brazil vulnerable against an in form Colombia. The Coffee Men have a golden boot contender in James Rodriguez and look like a team which is ready to cause a major upset when they take on Brazil.
Prediction: Colombia
Argentina vs. Belgium
Many termed Belgium as the dark horses for this world cup and they have so far, lived up to their billing. Belgium is unbeaten so far and expect them to give Argentina a good fight.
Messi, expectedly, will hold the key. He is the man who is at the centre of Argentina's fortunes in Brazil and unlike some of the other stars; the Little Master (if I may borrow an overused cricket term) has carried his team rather successfully.
Prediction: Belgium may put up a fight but I expect Argentina to outclass them.
Netherlands vs. Costa Rica
I expect this one to be the most straight forward. Despite Costa Rica's dream run, the Dutch have looked like a really tough team to beat. Under Louis Van Gaal, Holland has managed to score the most goals. Something that not many were expecting from his 'defensive' 5-3-2 line up.
Arjen Robben has been on fire, and while the inexperienced defense could be a matter of concern for LvG they have too much fire power up front to go down to Costa Rica.
Prediction: Netherlands
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