[Sparks fly as Holland battles the United States.]
Time: December 3 (Sat) 23:00 Taiwan
Record: Netherlands 4 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss to United States (goal ratio 10:5)
Spotlight: Cody Gakpo vs. Christian Pulisic
Pre-match analysis: The Netherlands, top of Group A, took on the United States, second in Group B. The Netherlands deserved their lead. Jakob has been the scoring leader for the Netherlands with three goals in the group stage. With Memphis Depay out of form, whether Jakob can find a chance against the tight U.S. defense will be the key to the Dutch breakthrough. Dutch midfield control is in doubt, with a mediocre group stage performance despite a star-studded roster, and with Frenkie de Jong playing moderately well, it will be crucial for his teammates to improve their performances in the knockout stages. The United States is an excellent team overall, with a solid defense and a reliance on Pulisic on the offensive end, with Sergino Dest expected to provide support. With the Netherlands' chances of advancing high, limiting Pulisic will be key, and the US strategy may be to defend and counterattack. The tactical duel between Louis van Gaal and Gregg Berhalter will be the highlight of the match.
[Messi leads Argentina's challenge to Australia]
Time: December 4 (Sun) 03:00 Taiwan
Record: Argentina 5 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss to Australia (goal ratio 12:7)
Spotlight: Lionel Messi vs. Mathew Ryan
PRE-GROUP ANALYSIS: Group C leaders Argentina battled Group D's second-place finisher Australia for a place in the last eight. Argentina struggled in the group stage but rebounded with goals from Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez. Lionel Scaloni's tactical adjustments got the team back on track. Messi's performance as the heart of the organization was crucial to Argentina's attack. Australia, although seen as a soft touch, had a strong performance in the group stage thanks to their excellent physicality and defensive counter-attacking tactics. Mathew Ryan's play will determine the direction of the game. Argentina has the advantage in terms of strength, but the defense needs to be wary of Australia's counter-attacks, otherwise the possibility of history repeating itself cannot be ignored.
