My piece for RantSports on some interesting international matches we have in store. They are numbered but not in any particular order of importance or anything.
Getty Images
International football is on display in the next few days with some good games in store. Qualification for Euro 2016 is coming down to the business end and it’s all or nothing for some teams. There are also some high-profile friendlies worth a watch. Here are the 10 best International games to watch during the break.
10. United States vs. Brazil
Getty Images
The USA set up a very tough test for themselves against Brazil. Neymar made his mark against the USA at the beginning of his international career and will be the highlight of the show. It will be interesting to see which version of these teams show up after some other solid friendlies.
9. Netherlands vs. Iceland
Getty Images
Netherlands can’t afford to fall any further behind in qualification. A loss to Iceland put them in this rocky position and nothing but three points will do. Czech Republic are ahead of them with two very winnable games, and Turkey behind them should get a win in their first. The Netherlands going for the win should make this fun to watch.
8. Turkey vs. Netherlands
Getty Images
Turkey and Netherlands have been disappointing in qualification so far. They sit fourth and third in the group, though that may change after the first set of games. However those pan out will have an effect on this game, but a loss for either side could mean the chance to qualify for Euro 2016 is lost.
7. Germany vs. Poland
Getty Images
Poland handed Germany their first loss in qualifying for quite some time. That means the Poles lead the group by one point with both teams having played six games. The World Cup champions are in transition but still have arguably the best team in the world. Automatic qualification is again key here.
6. France vs. Portugal
Getty Images
It’s not all about qualifying, though. France, the hosts of Euro 2016, have played a number of high-profile friendlies. Portugal are still finding their way with new manager, Fernando Santos. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Antoine Griezmann and Nani are just some players on display. It should be a good game.
5. France vs. Serbia
Getty Images
This is another high-profile friendly for France against solid opposition. Serbia have had a horrific qualification campaign and won’t be at Euro 2016. This still a good test for the French though, and it will be interesting to see where the hosts are. It may be a chance for certain French players to stake a claim for a starting spot.
4. Argentina vs. Mexico
Getty Images
Mexico’s second game under new coach, Ricardo Ferretti, will be a good one. Argentina are still stinging from the loss in the 2015 Copa America final. Mexico have to prepare for the CONCACAF playoff against the USA. There should be plenty of good football on display with Lionel Messi and company on the pitch.
3. Belgium vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Getty Images
Belgium and Bosnia and Herzegovina have plenty to play for when they meet. Wales can ensure themselves automatic qualification as the top team in the group, so a place in the playoffs meaning one of these sides could miss out on the tournament altogether. Both sides have plenty of talent and are looking to progress from the 2014 World Cup.
2. Spain vs. Slovakia
Getty Images
Spain sit three points behind Slovakia in qualifying. Why is that? They were beaten by this group in one of their first games. Spain aren’t the mighty side they once were but still have plenty of talent available. Slovakia have a solid side though, and don’t need to push for a win. That should make this game interesting.
1. Brazil vs. Costa Rica
Getty Images
Costa Rica will hope to continue their ascent as a CONCACAF powerhouse with a win over Brazil. Anytime the Brazilians are on display is cause for intrigue. There’s nothing at stake in this match, but that may make it even more interesting as the sides experiment.
Always Thinking Football 