Welcome back to the Lewnau Sports Bureau! So far the Confederations Cup has followed my script as Portugal, Mexico, Germany, and Chile all advanced to the knockout rounds. Cristiano Ronaldo has dazzled through Portugal’s group, stage scoring twice and assisting on another occasion. Germany’s young bloods have played their typical technically sound style of football. Chile has been industrious in their work. Mexico has produced enthusiastic and acrobatic goals. And Russia, is now just a spectator after failing to beat El Tri in game three. So much for Russia winning the Cup on its home soil eh Putin? Anyway, the stage is set for what should be two terrific semifinal matches midweek, and a dandy of a third place and final game come Sunday. Therefore, let’s get you ready for the fantastic futbol ahead.
Semifinals
Portugal vs Chile
Kazan Arena, Kazan, Russia
Wednesday, June 28th 2:00PM EST FS1
On tap first is Portugal vs Chile! The reigning champions from the globe’s two most demanding footballing contents, Portugal (Europe) and Chile (South America), are poised to put on a show for us fans. There will be plenty of high scoring players taking the pitch as Ronaldo, Andre Silva, and Bernardo Silva highlight Portugal’s trident of tricks. Meanwhile, Chile will be led by Gunner Alexis Sanchez and Bayern bruiser Arturo Vidal. Speaking of bruising, I’m rather interested in seeing how the Seleccao squad, Ronaldo included, will handle Chile’s physical style of play. After watching the past two Copa Americas and seeing Leo Messi get pulled, battered and bruised against La Roja in 2015 and 2016, ultimately holding Argentina scoreless in both finals (I know, know, if it wasn’t for Higuain’s blown chances— Damn Higuain), I simply can’t wait to see Ronaldo and company handle the physical pressure put upon them. This without a doubt is the key to the game.
LSB Prediction: While Portugal is UEFA’s current champs, they slithered by time and again during the Euro’s routinely winning either on penalties or in extra time. Combine the Seleccao’s thin margin for error with Chile’s fierce play and it’s a recipe that not even Ronaldo can muster. 1-0 Chile
Germany vs Mexico
Fisht Stadium, Sochi, Russia
Thursday, June 29th 2:00PM EST FS1
The second semifinal brings us a familiar scene, as the German national team is once again in a semifinals match. As defending World Cup champions, Germany is unquestionably the favorite in this match against North America’s best in El Tri. Mexico must convert their chances when given the opportunity, we’re looking at you Chicharito, because they’ll be few and far between. Plus, with Draxler and Werner in fine fettled form, the Mexican backline must communicate, track back, and keep a compact shape or things could get ugly.
LSB Prediction: The Germans will have a field day against the men from Mexico. Running rampant will be Julian Draxler, Leon Goretzka, and Joshua Kimmich, as they feed young buck Timo Werner en route to victory. 4-1 Germany
Third Place Playoff
Portugal vs Mexico
Spartak Stadium, Moscow, Russia
Sunday, July 2rd 8:00AM EST FS1
Come Sunday fans will have a double dose of footballing fun. First up is the early bird special pitting semifinal losers against each other in a battle for the bronze medal. As I see it it, the fixture will be a rematch from the group stage between Portugal and Mexico. The first meeting ended in a 2-2 draw, however Mexico was the deserved winners, despite needing a late equalizer. El Tri dominated possession, but Ronaldo, on a well timed run, played provider in making Mexico pay for the opening goal. Then in the second half, Portugal was the beneficiary of a deflected Cedric Soares shot. The ball veered on goal and past Ochoa for the second. Outside of those two instances, the Seleccao did virtually nothing offensively. Meanwhile, Mexico had chance after chance. They converted two, but left many more opportunities begging.
This go round Portugal needs to play a more inspired attacking game, which the Seleccao should be able to do with the likes of Cristiano and company. As for El Tri, Chicharito must convert his chances with regularity, like a starting striker should. He will also need to capitalize on set pieces, as they did in game the first match.
LSB Prediction: Ronaldo will still be fuming after his squad’s midweek meltdown against Chile. Thus, I fully expect a spirited performance from him and his Seleccao. Ultimately Ronny will bag a hat trick and Chicharito will be left scratching his head wondering how on earth his six yard shot is still sailing into the sky. 3-2 Portugal
Final
Germany vs Chile
Saint Petersburg Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Sunday, July 2nd 2:00PM EST FOX
Sunday’s main event, the Confederations Cup Final, will provide World Cup winners Germany against CONMEBOL champions Chile! This will be another exciting affair between two squads featuring differing styles of play. The Germans will pose problems for La Roja with their technical superiority. Meanwhile, Chile’s ruggedness will aim to alter Die Mannschaft’s passing prowess and link up play. In addition, Chile will have the edge in experience as La Roja will feature a veteran laden team. Conversely, Joachim Lowe chose to bring a bushel basket of fresh meat to the tournament, as the vast majority of the German squad members are participating in their first major international competition.
LSB Prediction: Despite Die Mannschaft’s tender age, this squad possesses top notch talent, and the Confederations Cup will serve as a coming out party for the next great generation of German futbol win or lose. But the word “lose” is not in DFB’s vocabulary, thus Draxler will dazzle and Ter Stegen will stonewall Sanchez in Saint Petersburg! 1-0 Germany