Local soccer experts pick Fridays quarterfinals games

Thank you to the local soccer experts for picking the upcoming quarterfinal games at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Uruguay vs France – although the numbers might tell a different story (25 picking France and just 3 picking Uruguay) most think it will be a close game. It is looking unlikely that Cavani will play due to his hamstring injury and several felt Uruguay could win with him in the lineup. Many have been impressed with Uruguay’s collective work ethic which promises to challenge a French team that looks to be hitting their stride. In the end, most (but not all) would prefer the talented French roster.

Picking Uruguay

Kelcey Chaidez
Renee Ziemer
Antonio Garcia

Picking France – it’s tempting to join the three that chose Uruguay but add CZ to the list…let’s do this France

Tim Maycock
Mike Friesen
Emiria Salzmann
Crystal Chaidez
Vinnie Cortezzo
Kai Edwards
Marcus Ziemer
Andrew Ziemer
Jeremy Gunn
Ian Mork
Don Shaffer
Andy Farrant
Matt Bernard
Benjamin Ziemer
Sally Ziemer
Ely Ziemer
Gabby Ziemer
Kevin Christensen
Gabe Rood
Marty Kinahan
Joe Hunter
Lee Summerscales
Chris Daly
Margi Osmundson
Roy Vega
CZ

Brazil vs Belgium – on a different day, this game could have been a semi-final or championship game with two heavyweights going toe to toe. Our experts favored Brazil (17 for Brazil and 11 for Belgium) but many were torn on this game. Belgium’s come from behind win over Japan impressed some whereas others might have felt it was a crack in their amour. How can you look at either lineup and pick against them? Many feel Brazil is the best chance to keep the tournament from becoming a Eurofest…others think Belgium provides the best chance at a first time winner. That is the beauty of the World Cup knockout rounds…only one can advance!