​The race to become Dan’s Just Arsenal World Cup Predictions League champion is now down to four competitors after another entertaining round of quarter-final action. With tie-breaks, convincing victories, and another set of excellent predictions, the tournament has certainly delivered on its promise. Congratulations to everyone who has taken part so far, but the focus now shifts to the semi-finals, where a place in the final is at stake.
The quarter-finals produced these results: NT Gunnerz 4-2 Mrs B, GAchizzy 2-6 J Knights, Kia 0-7 GB, Stephanie 5-5 Ackshay (Stephanie progresses on the second tie-break). That sets the semi-final lineup as follows: NT Gunnerz vs J Knights, GB vs Stephanie. Please ensure all predictions for the first semi-final fixture are submitted before kick-off.
Some players have expressed concern that they post all their predictions early, only for their opponents to wait until the following day to make strategic selections based on those predictions. That approach undermines the spirit of the competition, so any predictions submitted after kick-off in the France vs Spain match will not be accepted. If you prefer your opponent not to see your predictions before kick-off, you can email Dan directly.
Remember: Predictions are for 90 minutes only. If you believe a match may go to extra time or penalties, predict a draw.
Spain might possess the only system capable of halting France’s attacking threat. The Spanish have conceded just one goal at the World Cup, and that is not due to miraculous saves by their back four or their goalkeeper; their defence is protected by the volume of possession they control. Logically, opponents cannot hurt you if they don’t have the ball.
By the law of averages, France have so much attacking talent that they will eventually conjure a moment of magic. It simply depends on how much possession they can secure. On this side of the draw, these two teams haven’t received the same praise as the other semi-finalists, which is odd considering one of them is the reigning world champions.
Of course, in today’s game, we live in a world where people are quick to tear others down, and if that’s their agenda, they’ll always find something to criticize. If you’re dissatisfied with how your country has reached a World Cup semi-final, ask yourself why you’re even watching the sport.
No one can question either team’s character or spirit. Both have consistently found ways to survive and win. I do think, though, that on paper England possess more individuals capable of producing a decisive moment, and they certainly have stronger depth from the bench. If the Three Lions play what’s in front of them rather than getting carried away by the occasion, they should have enough to prevail.
Dan Smith
With just four players remaining, the pressure is on as the race for World Cup Predictions League glory intensifies.
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