Netherlands vs. USA (Saturday, 3.00pm)
© Reuters
The Netherlands and the USA will commence the World Cup 2022 last-16 phase when they lock horns at the Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Louis van Gaal's side topped Group A to secure their passage into the knockout stages, while the Stars and Stripes placed second in Group B behind England.
We say: Netherlands 2-0 USA
The Netherlands may not work the goalkeeper that much - as evidenced by their lack of shots on target - but the ruthlessness of Gakpo and the rest of Van Gaal's crop still makes them a highly formidable foe.
A stellar defensive record will also come in handy for the Dutch, and with the USA potentially having the likes of McKennie and Pulisic not quite at full fitness, we can only envisage Oranje marching on to the quarter-finals.
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> How the USA could line up against the Netherlands
> How the Netherlands could line up against the USA
Argentina vs. Australia (Saturday, 7.00pm)
© Reuters
After escaping their groups in dramatic circumstances, just three days later Argentina and last-16 opponents Australia meet at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Saturday.
Both nations' World Cup adventures now continue into the knockout stages, following the Albiceleste's recovery from a shock opening loss to Saudi Arabia and the Socceroos' defeat of Denmark in midweek.
We say: Argentina 2-0 Australia
Having avoided facing the reigning champions by topping Group C, Argentina will be determined to take advantage of their re-found form and fluency to reach the quarter-finals. While a plucky Australia side can keep them at bay for certain spells, if the Albiceleste demonstrate their undoubted quality in the final third there should surely be only one winner.
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> How Australia could line up against Argentina
> How Argentina could line up against Australia
Ben Knapton
