European football dominates World Cup knockouts

Belgium survive Brazil onslaught

The clash between Belgium and Brazil was the most mouthwatering quarter-final on paper - and it lived up to its billing. It was a thrill-a-minute clash which ended with the Belgians moving on to the semi-finals thanks to a 2-1 win. However, Brazil played their part and will feel aggrieved not to have at least taken the match to extra time - as they had a very valid penalty claim waved away.

This World Cup just keeps giving fans more and more, and this particular match had a bit of everything. It had fierce attacks, astute defending, drama, classy goals, and some wonderful saves. Kudos to both sides for putting on a match worthy of the world's attention, and we simply cannot wait for France against Belgium in the semi-finals. What a clash that is going to be!

France too strong for Uruguay

After a so-so start to the World Cup, France have really stepped up their game in the knockout rounds. After their thriller with Argentina in the Round of 16, many predicted a more relaxed clash with Uruguay. While it wasn't as action-packed, France did exactly what they had to do, nullifying the strongarm tactics of the South Americans and finding the goals they needed to progress - even if the one was thanks to some horrendous goalkeeping from Fernando Muslera in the Uruguay goal.

England march on in mediocre fashion

It was kind of a given that England against Sweden was going to lack real fire, and that is exactly what happened. However, winning is all that matters right now, and England did what they needed to. Sweden are a bit of a boring team to watch, and the game followed their lead, but for Harry Kane and his side, a win is a win is a win. Onto the semi-finals the Three Lions march.

Croatia flatter to deceive again

If you were to pick a World Cup winner at the end of the Group Stage, Croatia would have been high up on the list. They were excellent in their group matches, but something hasn't quite clicked for them in the knockout rounds. Both their matches have gone to penalties and Croatia looked a little shellshocked during the games. It is almost as if the pressure is getting to them. As mentioned, winning is all that matters, but if they play poorly against England in the semi-final, they will get punished. While Belgium against France is the blockbuster match, Croatia against England is going to be a tight affair, but no less intriguing.

Thanks for the memories, Russia

It was a fairytale run to the quarter-finals for hosts Russia. Not many people gave them much hope of going as far as they did, but a strong team spirit carried them to within a penalty of reaching the semi-finals. They have done the tournament a service by staying in for as long as they did and it is kind of sad to see the host nation bow out. Regardless, the memories will live long of their run in the tournament and they can be extremely proud of that fact.

Also read: England finally banish their penalty hoodoo