The finals for the 2014 FIFA World Cup are now set. So let’s look at the two final matches:
In the third place game, host country Brazil takes on the Netherlands. Brazil was badly beaten 7-1 by Germany in their semifinal match. The Netherlands lost 4-2 in penalty shots to Argentina after their game ended 0-0 after extra time. The two countries have played 11 matches at the World Cup with three wins each and five draws. In those 11 matches, both teams have scored 15 times. Brazil is the #3 team in the world, while the Netherlands are ranked #15. Netherlands have only lost one game at this tournament, in the semifinals. Prior to their lose to Germany, Brazil’s worst game was a draw.
In the title match, Germany takes on Argentina. Argentina has nine wins against Germany at the World Cup, while Germany has won five matches against Argentina. The two teams have also played to five draws. Both teams have scored 28 goals against each other. Argentina has won every game they have played at the World Cup, while Germany had only one tie (a 2-2 draw against Ghana) during the tournment.
I expect Brazil to recover from their loss to Germany in the semifinals to win the third place match. And for the title, I am expecting a close game with Germany coming out ahead at the end of the day.
Edward Brain's Blog 