Group play at the Men's soccer tournament at the Olympics 2012 will come to its conclusion on Wednesday.
Group B is arguably the widest open with every squad still in contention for a spot in the quarter finals. Mexico and Korea Republic are sitting pretty atop the group with four points apiece, but Switzerland and Gabon can still pull through with big wins.
Mexico Vs. Switzerland 12 p.m. EDT
Mexico just needs one point to get through to the quarterfinals while Switzerland needs a win by at least two goals in this one to advance. They can win with a smaller goal differential but that will force them to rely on Korea losing by at least two goals as well.
The Mexicans have been solid through two matches though not tremendously dominant. Giovanni Dos Santos has started on the bench in both matches against Korea and Gabon and his insertion onto the pitch has proven to be a difference in both matches. While he did not execute against Korea, he slowed down the free flowing offensive jolt of the Asians and created his own opportunities. Against Gabon he scored twice. At this point, it would be shocking to see the superstar on the bench to start the match against a desperate Swiss squad.
Swiss Keeper Diego Benaglio has been the best player for the Europeans through two matches and single handedly kept them alive against an aggressive Korean attack. He will be key to stopping Dos Santos and the other Mexican strikers on the pitch.
Prediction: 1-0 Switzerland. Switzerland reverts to its defensive style and shuts down Mexico. They convert on the counter and revert back to the defensive shell.
Watch Mexico vs. Switzerland Live Stream HERE.
Korea Republic vs. Gabon 12 p.m. EDT
Gabon played an aggressive match against the Swiss in the first match before keeping Mexico at bay for half a match. They eventually fell apart in the second half, but have exhibited assertiveness on the pitch that makes them dangerous. They need a win by more than three goals in order to secure passage no matter what. They must also pray for a Mexican victory or a tie in the other match to avoid too many complications in the scenario.
Korea meanwhile has looked like the potent offense that has become expected of them. They need only a tie to continue into the knockout stages but will look for a win. They have more skill than Senegal and will likely dominate possession.
Prediction: Gabon wins 2-1 as their aggressive style overpowers and surprises the Koreans.
Group Standings Predictions
Mexico: 4 points, 1 win, 1 loss, 1 draw, +1 goal differential
Korea Republic: 4 points, 1 win, 1 loss, 1 draw, 0 goal differential, Won match to Switzerland
Switzerland: 4 points, 1 win, 1 loss, 1 draw, 0 goal differential, Lost to Korea
Gabon: 4 points, 1 win, 1 loss, 1 draw, -1 goal differential
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