FIFA U-17 World Cup 2013: Predicting the Quarterfinal Outcomes

The quarterfinals for the U-17 World Cup 2013 are set and feature a prominent number of teams. Here is how the teams stack up against their respective rivals.

Honduras vs. Sweden

Honduras finished second in its group behind Brazil with one win, one draw, and one loss. Honduras then went on to face Uzbekistan in the round of 16 where it took down the Asian side 1-0 on a 74^th minute strike from Jorge Bodden. The Swedes finished third in their group with a record of one win, one draw, and one loss; the team managed a compelling 4-1 win over group minnow Iraq. In the round of 16, Sweden took down a heavily favored Japanese team 2-1.

Both teams should match up well in what could be the most even matchup of the quarter finals. Sweden should ultimately win 2-1.

Uruguay vs. Nigeria

The senior clubs of each nation met in the Confederations Cup and were then drawn into the U-20 World Cup earlier this year. The previous results favored the South American side and both games ended with 2-1 scorelines. History could continue to repeat itself against these high-scoring teams. Uruguay has recorded 14 goals in four games and recently took down Slovakia 4-2. Nigeria has scored 18 goals in four games and is coming off a 4-1 win over Iran.

Nigeria manages to defeat Uruguay 3-1.

Argentina vs. Ivory Coast

Argentina is a group winner while the Ivorians finished third in their group. Argentina has just defeated Tunisia 3-1 while the Ivory Coast is coming off a 2-1 win over Morocco. The South Americans are the favorites in this one, but the Ivorians are quick and should give Argentina problems.

Argentina wins 2-0.

Brazil vs. Mexico

This game pits two of the top contenders in the competition. Brazil is tied with Nigeria for being highest scoring club in the tournament (18 goals in four games) while Mexico finished second in a group that featured Nigeria and Sweden. Brazil took down Russia 3-1 in its round of 16 date while Mexico shocked Italy 2-0 in its matchup. Brazil holds the edge here as the only remaining team with a perfect four wins in four tries. Brazil will win 3-0.

The matches resume on Nov. 1 and 2.