Predict-o-Matic WC06

Okay, so my Quarterfinal predictions were pretty crappy - I went 4-4. But in my defense:

• the Italy-Australia match was crazy - nearing the end, Australia was in the driver's seat. If it had gone to extra time I am sure Australia would have won. Nevertheless, the winning goal was correctly called, heartbreaking, but correct.
  
• the Netherlands might have made a comeback had the two teams been playing an actual game of soccer.
  
• the Switzerland-Ukraine game was the ultimate toss-up and I even called their parity.
  

I've got nothing on France. They surprised me. I made the wrong call. But being wrong has never felt so right, as they say. Allez Les Bleus!

So, let's put my predicting skills to the test yet again.... my Semifinal picks:
Germany - Argentina

• This might be a toss-up.
  
• Germany has been looking better than I had originally thought. Again, they've got home field advantage.
  
• Argentina have been excellent. I hope they start Messi and/or Tevez.
  

Italy - Ukraine

• Ukraine is, as the Beatles say, getting better all the time. They are the dark horse.
  
• Italy are missing a key starting defender in Materazzi. All the pressure is on them as well - no one's really expecting Ukraine to win.
• It might come down to the wire, but I think Ukraine has it in them

England - Portugal

• England has shown that they are a fairly good team, although maybe not performing to their full potential.
  
• Portugal is hurtin'. No Deco. No Costinha. Possibly no Ronaldo (although reports are saying he has an 80% chance of returning). Maybe they'll lose their heads again, too. Who knows?

Brazil - France

• Again, a tough call. I want France to win, but the question is can they?
• France have been looking better. They have finally found some offence, particularly in Ribery. All they need is for Henry to light it up (and stay onside, for that matter).
• Brazil is just too good. THEY'RE TOO GOOD!!!
• Everytime I doubt France, they storm back. I hope it works again this time.