With a fresh batch of eight matchups in store over the next few days, let's rank the round of 16 matchups from worst to best — and the U.S.-Netherlands may be among the most intriguing matches to watch
The defending champions showed their class against Australia with a 4-1 rout before grinding out a 2-1 win over the ultra-disappointing Denmark. But France's biggest question mark was answered in the 1-0 loss to Tunisia: Just how good are they without Kylian Mbappé?
It's too reliant on finding Messi in central areas to pull the strings, the midfield lacks proper balance and struggle to play progressive football and the backline is shaky when facing heavy pressure. The Green Falcons pulled off the upset, but Mexico and Poland weren't willing to take the game to them and suffered the consequence.
The problem is Spain's final product. The 7-0 thrashing of Costa Rica blanketed its ability to routinely create chances against teams with superior defensive structure, which came into play in the 1-1 draw to Germany and the 2-1 loss vs. Japan. Morocco will have to hold firm and capitalize on the few moments that'll present itself to pull off yet another historical upset. Brazil and South Korea played in a friendly in June -- and it was utter domination for the Seleção.
Senegal may not have the quality and depth on paper to upset England, but it gave the Netherlands 84 minutes of good fight and showed its resilience against Ecuador to advance in Group A without its marquee player, Sadio Mané. In his absence, Ismaïla Sarr has risen to the occasion down the left-hand flank despite playing on the right for most of his young career.
The United States are definitely coming into this as the underdogs and have the quality to pull off an upset, if the Stars and Stripes can find enough goals. This one will likely be a, as the Netherlands like to run with a back five while the United States’ back four has only conceded a penalty goal through three games.
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