Japan vs. Croatia (Monday, 3.00pm)
© Reuters
Resident World Cup 2022 giant killers Japan will endeavour to pull off another impressive scalp at the tournament when they tackle Croatia in Monday's last-16 clash at the Al Janoub Stadium.
Hajime Moriyasu's men remarkably finished first in Group E above Spain and Germany, while the 2018 runners-up were forced to settle for second in Group F behind Morocco.
We say: Japan 1-1 Croatia (a.e.t, Croatia advance on penalties)
With a penchant for lightning quick counter-attacks and a wealth of players in reserve waiting to make a difference, Japan have every right to feel that another shock is on the cards, and finding a consistent attacking formula has not been on the agenda for Croatia.
While we do expect the Samurai Blue to make the net ripple, trying to score more than once may prove to be a fruitless endeavour against a dogged Dalic-led defence, and we would not be surprised to see this one decided from 12 yards as Croatia deny Japan a first-ever quarter-final appearance.
> Click here to read our full preview for this match
> How Croatia could line up against Japan
> How Japan could line up against Croatia
Brazil vs. South Korea (Monday, 7.00pm)
© Reuters
South Korea will aim to pull off yet another World Cup 2022 shock when they take on five-time champions Brazil in Monday's last-16 showdown at Stadium 974.
The Selecao finished top of Group G on goal difference, while Paulo Bento's men stunned Portugal on the final day in Group H to qualify for the knockouts in second place.
We say: Brazil 2-1 South Korea
Possessing goal threats in all areas of the field, South Korea can feel optimistic of breaking down a ravaged Brazil backline, with Son and Hwang sure to be licking their lips after taking a look at the Selecao's full-back injury concerns.
Brazil's loss to Cameroon may have been a slight shock to the system, but Tite will now welcome back a plethora of first-team stars and could potentially have Neymar at his disposal from the off, so we still expect the Selecao's extensive attacking options to fire the five-time champions into the last eight and end the South Korean dream.
> Click here to read our full preview for this match
> How South Korea could line up against Brazil
> How Brazil could line up against South Korea
Matt Law
