But I must admit I had a massive smirk on my face on Wednesday when Germany went tumbling out of the tournament.

The ever-diligent Betting Spy was on its way to the John Murphy & Sons summer party and keeping up with the game old school style on BBC text alerts.

By the smiles on the cab drivers’ faces at the Kings Cross rank it was obvious everyone had a soft spot for South Korea on a lovely afternoon when the sun was shining, the beer was cold and the holders has been humbled.

But enough of the also rans – let’s have a look at who should progress to the quarter finals…..

France v Argentina

France have been ordinary while Argentina have been almost as big a shambles as former hero Maradona. France to win 3-1.

Uruguay v Portugal

The Uruguayans haven’t let a goal in yet and hate to concede. Portugal to hit a blue and white wall as Uruguay win 1-0.

Spain v Russia

Spain in full flow are a beautiful sight and they will have too much for the hosts. Spain to win 3-0

Croatia v Denmark

Croatia have been impressive so far but this is a sterner test as Eriksen and Modric go head-to-head. A 1-1 draw with Croatia to go through after extra time.

Brazil v Mexico

Mexico’s humbling of Germany was one of the performances of the tournament while Neymar has been as infuriating as Brazil have been underwhelming. But they are growing into the competition so Brazil to win 3-1.

Belgium v Japan

Belgium will have all their big names back and will be too strong for the Blue Samurai. Belgium to win 2-0.

Sweden v Switzerland

Another chance for the camera operators to pick out their favourites in the Swedish crowd but this has the whiff of a cautious 0-0 draw. Sweden to win on penalties.

Colombia v England

A stern test but one England can pass. We’ll be hoping James Rodriguez stays on the treatment table and Falcao doen’t have a flashback to the days when he was one of the most feared strikers on the planet. Colombia looked rattled when Senegal ran at them so now is the time for Raheem Sterling to step up. It’s sure to be the usual roller coaster but I’m backing a 3-2 win for England.

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