WORLD CUP-LATEST PREDICTIONS SATURDAY 26 JUNE

URUGUAY v SOUTH KOREA

The opening match of the last 16, and a fascinating one. South American teams were unbeaten in this World Cup up until last night when Chile lost. Japan and South Korea have both made it through to the second round from Asia, and both have impressed. Asian football is certainly on the rise, and it may only be two or three more World Cups until they become serious contenders.

Uruguay can point to history - but it's all a very long time ago for them. Victory today would see them through to the quarter-finals for the first time in 40 years, and back in 1970 they ended up as losing semi-finalists.

I can't imagine that either side will run away with this one. In fact, my gut says this is going all the way.

MATCH PREDICTION: Uruguay 1-1 South Korea (after extra time)

The Koreans will take the lead but get pegged back. And the two-time winners Uruguay will edge through 4-3 on penalties.

USA v GHANA

The only surviving African team in the competition - will that act as a spur or a burden for Ghana? The USA scraped through with a goal at the death against Algeria - could that be a launching pad for a decent run?

I find this a very difficult one to call. Neither side has the best defence so there could be goals.

MATCH PREDICTION: USA 3-2 GHANA

The States to just edge it and head into the quarters.