The 7 World Cup Games to Watch This Week

Trying to figure out what games warrant slacking off work this week? Total Sports Live has you covered. Here’s the 7 World Cup games you should definitely be watching over the next few days.

Monday, June 23

1. Netherlands vs. Chile (12:00 PM)

Both teams are already guaranteed advancement, but don’t knock the importance of this match. The winner will likely avoid Brazil in the next round, and that will certainly play a role in the efforts of both teams. Even ignoring the implications, this was always going to be a fun side, as both clubs are offensively gifted and attacking minded sides that can create with possession or off the counter. Missing Robin van Persie will hurt the Dutch attack, but there’s more than enough talent to make up for the striker’s absence. Chile will be full of confidence after successive victories and eager to set themselves up for a real run in the knockout stages after falling in the Round of 16 in South Africa.

2. Croatia vs. Mexico (4:00 PM)

The name of the game is simple for Croatia. If they win, they go through, otherwise Mexico goes through. It’s always fun watching a loser-goes-home game, especially when a side as offensively talented as Croatia is part of the proceedings. Mexico, of course, acquitted themselves well against Brazil, and seem like a dangerous team to face in the knockout rounds. Both teams are capable of winning this game, and it should be a fun one to watch, especially if Croatia scores first.

Tuesday, June 24

3. Italy vs. Uruguay (12:00 PM)

Both Italy and Uruguay were favorites to get out of this group and outside contenders at the crown itself, but Costa Rica’s surprising victories over both of these squads means that one of these talented teams will be leaving Brazil earlier than planned. Italy holds the advantage due to goal differential and would advance with a tie. There’s more than enough star power on display between Balotelli, Pirlo, Suarez and Cavani, and both sets of fans will be fervently praying for victory in the upcoming days. It would be incredibly surprising if both sides didn’t score in a game that means everything for their World Cup hopes. This might be my favorite group stage matchup left. If you can only watch one, make it this one.

4. Greece vs. Ivory Coast (4:00 PM)

This is another game where a victory pushes the winner through, although Japan has an outside shot if they can pull off a victory against Colombia, the leader of Group C Ivory Coast will be favored, but Greece is famous for stacking inside their own box and closing up the easy lanes towards goal. The pattern of the game should be very much Ivory Coast attacking for long stretches, Greece parrying a multitude of attacks and then hitting on the counter. If Ivory Coast doesn’t score an early goal, this could end up being a very tense affair for both sets of supporters.

Wednesday, June 26

5. Nigeria vs. Argentina (12:00 PM)

If Nigeria pulls out a victory, they win the group and avoid France in the next round. And while Argentina is favored, anything can happen in a single soccer game at this level (as almost seen when Argentina barely pulled out the victory against Iran.) Chances are that Argentina has learned from their scare and will right the ship in time for their last group stage match, but Nigeria knows a victory means a much more winnable game in the next round. Both teams will be eager to do whatever they can to avoid playing the video game version of the French national team currently steamrolling opponents. And of course, if you have a chance to watch Lionel Messi, you take it.

Thursday, June 26

6. Portugal vs. Ghana (12:00 PM)

Of course, I’m sure all American eyes will be on United States/Germany, but even without the implications of this game on the US chance of survival, the Portugal/Ghana game is one of the most tantalizing games left. The Group of Death always brings the promise of six important matches, and this year’s Group G has certainly delivered. Portugal and Ghana are both quality teams who need to win to have a shot at advancing, and that means both teams will have to play somewhat recklessly. Plus, with Portugal needing a large margin of victory, there should be a vivid display of attacking football throughout, no matter who strikes first.

7. Russia/Algeria (4:00 PM)

This is very similar to the Greece/Ivory Coast matchup, where Russia (like Greece) can advance with a victory despite only having a single point so far. Highly paid Russian coach Fabio Capello is on the hot seat unless he can get Russia to advance, and Algeria will be desperate to capitalize on their decisive showing against Korea. Expect both teams to leave everything on the pitch.