By Tam Nguyen, Nguoi Viet
When Argentina and Belgium meet on Saturday in the World Cup quarterfinals, both will have played tough games to get there. Argentina defeated Switzerland 1-0 in extra time and Belgium also won in extra time, defeating the United States 2-1 to reach this round. The winner will play either the Netherlands or Costa Rica in the semifinals.
Switzerland midfielder Valon Behrami, right, and Argentina’s forward and captain Lionel Messi vie for the ball during a Round of 16 match between Argentina and Switzerland held Tuesday. Argentina won to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals. (Photo by Juan Mabromata AFP/Getty Images)
Kickoff: 9 a.m. PDT, ABC
Players to watch
ARGENTINA: Lionel Messi is mainly a striker but his passing skills are exceptional, too. Messi has the ability to break free from defenders as well, making him a threat to score. Messi also has the skills to draw defenders toward him and pass the ball to the nearest open forward for a scoring chance.
BELGIUM: Kevin De Bruyne was sensational in the win against United States. De Bruyne only scored one goal in the game but could have scored four. He will be a threat against Argentina and will be the main striker for Belgium.
Keys to victory
ARGENTINA: Team Argentina must keep possession of the ball and get scoring chances in the box. Argentina needs to control of the game and force Belgium to take the long shots.
BELGIUM: The Belgians should attack the net and put more players up front against the weak Argentina defense. The wingers need to drive the ball in and cross it to the midfielder for the quick strike on goal.
Prediction: The teams are evenly matched, so it will be a close game and fast-paced. Both teams will find holes in the defenses and get scoring chances, and it is going to be the battle of the goalkeepers to see who can reach the semis. The game may be scoreless and decided in extra time or penalty kicks.
Final score: Argentina 0, Belgium 0 (Argentina 4, Belgium 3 in penalty kicks)
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