Today's matches to close eighth-finals

Argentina takes the field later today as a strong favorite to stay for the World Cup finals. A large Argentinian crowd is expected at Arena Corinthians, the Itaquerão, in São Paulo at 1pm to urge their team on against Switzerland. The Latin American team has not yet lived up to its reputation.

Despite an all-wins group phase, such world-class footballers as Di Maria and Higuain have had disappointing appearances. Only top star Messi has displayed some of his quality leading the team to nine points in the first phase. To make matters worse, forward Aguero is injured and will probably be out of the game. Coach Alejandro Sabella is likely to send in Lavezzi instead.

On the other hand, Switzerland is coming from a rollercoaster campaign. After beating Ecuador, it lost to France and thrashed Honduras. The Swiss fans expect a good performance from midfielder Shaqiri, who scored three goals against Honduras, and Seferovic, who scored in the first game.

At 5pm at Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador, Belgium faces the USA. Belgium's attempt at the quarterfinals should rely on such players as Fellaini, Hazard, and Lukaku, whereas USA is trusting Dempsey and banking on coach Klinsmann's robust tactics. Plenty of goals are expected. The stadium seems to have been working like a goal charm, since 21 balls have been netted in only four games so far.

The winners of the two matches will face off in the quarterfinals in Brasília on July 5. All match times are stated in Brasília time.

Translated by Mayra Borges