FIFA World Cup 2018 Round of 16 predictions

Match #5 - Brazil vs Mexico

Brazil vs Mexico

Record 5-time World Champions Brazil who had a rather sluggish start to the tournament picked up the pace in the next 2 games as they won 2-0 against Costa Rica and Serbia to top the group face Mexico who will be disappointed to have not won the group after winning the opening 2 games which included an upset win over the defending champions. On paper, it is certainly all Brazil and they are overwhelming favourites to go through. This is the only clash which doesn't involve a European nation in the round of 16.

After not living up to the expectations in the opening game, Brazil got right back to business in the next game although they won courtesy of 2 goals in stoppage time. Any niggling doubts about their form were put to rest as they put in a solid performance against Serbia as a defeat meant they could be eliminated. 2 wins and 2 clean sheets would have certainly pleased Tite.

Mexico were on a high after winning the opening 2 games and looked set to qualify as group winners until Sweden ended their hopes with a 3-0 win in their final game. Mexico's defence will certainly have a tough task handling Neymar, Coutinho, Jesus, Willian and Firmino as they will be low on confidence after letting in 3 goals against Sweden. Mexico goalkeeper Ochoa made a name for himself with a stunning performance in the last World Cup against Brazil and the North American nation will rely on him to repeat that performance and keep the Brazilian attack at bay. On the other hand, they have to hope Hernandez, Lozano, Vela, and Layun finish any chance they get at the other end.

Prediction - Brazil 3-1 Mexico