Another World cup Day yet another Giant Slayed, Hosts Russia put 2010 winners to the sword.
One has to appreciate the effort of the Russians for being able to see the match out to the penalty stage where they came out victorious. Spain have themselves to, they had the ball for most of the encounter but lacked the creative nous to do make anything out of it. For all the creative players the have, they were only lucky to take the lead from an own goal. Clearly they should have done better.
Croatia won the second match of the day to set up a Quarter final meeting with Russia. The encounter with Denmark was a nerve racking one as the tie was open. The contest went into extra time, with Luka Modric missing a penalty late in extra time.
Brazil vs Mexico
This encounter, considering the attacking nature of both teams should be an exciting one to watch and any one of them can win. With the early exit of the GOAT's it's time for Neymar to step up and seize the day, the world cup will be looking for headline acts going forward and one would hope the bulk of Brazilian stars and upcoming stars of the Spanish squad, would serve a sweet encounter preferably filled with goals.
Belgium vs Japan
Like Neymar, Hazard will hope to be take the bull by the horn and fire his country to victory as they face Japan. Though Belgium appear to be favourites, anything can happen as the World Cup gave continued to remind us.