Uruguay 1-0 Mexico
I don't expect much out of Mexico in the round of 16, as usual. They made it that far, but no further, in each of the last four World Cups, and for the second straight Cup they'll be facing Argentina, who I don't see them beating. 2006's matchup was reasonably entertaining - two goals in the first ten minutes, then nothing until Maxi Rodriguez's insane volley in extra time.
South Africa 2-1 France
It actually looked for a while - when it was 2-0 South Africa and 1-0 Uruguay - that the hosts might progress miraculously. Then France caught up with the game a bit and the dream was gone. However, I'm happy for South Africa that they got a win on home soil, and against a world power, albeit one in total disarray.
Argentina 2-0 Greece
Had Greece been any other team, they might have won this game. They're not.
South Korea 2-2 Nigeria
One of the more exciting games of the tournament so far. Yakubu's miss was simply astounding - as the announcers exclaimed on the radio call, it was easier to make than to miss - and with the Nigerians going home as the result of the draw, that's one that could haunt. At least he made the tying penalty shot and saved some face. South Korea went through as a result of this game and will face Uruguay; I'm inclined to say Uruguay wins that one considering how shambolic South Korea's defense looked in this game.
With South Africa and Nigeria joining Cameroon on the rubbish heap, there are three African teams left carrying the banner. Ivory Coast, while still technically alive, are basically done because of goal differential. That leaves Algeria and Ghana, who can both advance with wins tomorrow. Of course, I'm certainly going to be rooting for Algeria not to win. So really it just leaves Ghana. Let's go Black Stars! This would also be good because it potentially dumps Germany out of the tournament.
I'm not sure I've ever been as nervous for a soccer game as for US-Algeria. A loss here could set back soccer in this country 12 years.
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