Hello and welcome to the Gillette Boot Room for the two remaining quarterfinals for the 2014 World Cup!
Happy Saturday to you, nomalcatt.
After yesterday’s drama which saw Germany and Brazil secure a juicy semifinal clash by dumping out France and Colombia respectively, we move onto today’s ties – and first up, it’s Argentina vs. Belgium which kicks off at Estadio Nacional de Brasilia in around 25 minutes.
Alejandro Sabella makes three changes as Lucas Biglia, Martin Demichelis and Jose Basanta all make their first starts at the tournament, while Divock Origi carries on up front for the Red Devils at the expense of Romelu Lukaku.
Then we’re off to Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador for Netherlands vs. Costa Rica, as Louis van Gaal looks to further prolong having to actually take over at Manchester United by seeking to actually go all the way in Brazil. Los Ticos will have to be wary of the slaloming threat of Arjen Robben, but Jorge Luis Pinto’s men have shown more than enough in Brazil to make history and reach the semis.
Welcome back Morty - I'd expect the officials to be right on the decisions today, as the referee allowed that Brazil vs. Colombia game to get out of control, and now we're without Neymar.
Rojo is suspended after picking up a yellow against Switzerland.
Welcome back JC - Origi's pace vs. Demichelis is perhaps the one battle I'm looking forward to the most.
Welcome back RMF! You're here now, and that's all that matters.
Just under 20 minutes to go now - predictions, please!
For what it's worth, I think Belgium will edge it 2-1.
Brush, I think he's been dropped due to a poor performance against Switzerland. Most people think that's the correct decision - what about you lot?
