We all have to admit, the 2010 World Cup has, so far, not been an exciting one. Whether the problem lies with the tired players from the European leagues, geographical issues surrounding some of the venues, the Vuvuzela drowning out the communications on the pitch, the much criticised Jabulani football by Adidas, or a combination of them all, we, as spectators, could only speculate. None of the less, this has been a tournament full of surprises. France, Italy and Cameroon being knocked out at the group stage, along with the Spain's defeat to Switzerland and England's inability to play to their best have all contributed. Let us hope the knockout phase of this showpiece event will give us more surprises along the way, but what I most want to see is a rise in the level of general performance by all the teams. After my partly successful predictions of the group stages, this is the time to carry on with my wall chart, here is my guesses for the round of last 16 matches: -

URUGUAY v SOUTH KOREA

Very difficult match to call as both teams have shown what they are capable of in the first round by getting through their groups containing France and Argentina. I would love to see South Korea go through as their work rate is just fantastic to watch. However, we have seen them faltered against an attacking side in the shape of Argentina and what Uruguay possesses is a very lively forward line. Therefore I think Uruguay might just edge it in a one-off match.

USA v GHANA

USA have been doing a great job so far in South Africa and have pipe England to qualify from the their group in first place while Ghana is a powerful and adventurous side capable of breaking down any teams. However, having seen Landon Donovan getting a late winner to get his team through, I am going to back the USA for this game based on this never-say-die attitude. This might be a very open game as both teams seem to be willing to attack so watch out for this game.

GERMANY v ENGLAND

Wembley 1966, Italia 90, Euro 96, fixtures between the two European super powers has always been entertaining. Both teams come into this game on the back of a victory but their overall form in the tournament so far has not been particularly good. Players to watch are without a doubt Germany's Mesut Ozil and England's Wayne Rooney. I fancy England's chances if they can contain Ozil as Germany usually plays a shaky zonal marking system at the back, which England can take advantage through longer balls from midfield and set pieces. Therefore, England to go through in my view.

ARGENTINA v MEXICO

I am not going to go against the general perception of Argentina going through this tie. Their forward line is simply the best in the World Cup and Mexico might find it impossible to contain them, especially Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero. The only chance for Mexico is to get at the uncertain Martin Demichelis but I really cannot see beyond an Argentine victory.

NETHERLANDS v SLOVAKIA

Although Slovakia played well to oust Italy out from the competition, the Netherlands have yet to hit top gear and with the return of Arjen Robben, it is hard not to back the Netherlands.

BRAZIL v CHILE

Since Dunga have taken over as coach, Brazil has adopted what seems to me a more cautious European approach than the Samba flair we have come to expect from Brazil. While they could have no problem against European teams, they seem a bit lost when it comes to playing against teams from Asia (as shown against the North Koreans) and even teams from their own South American Continent. Therefore, with the way Chile played in the first round, they might fancy their chances. So I am banking on a massive upset here and back Chile to beat the all mighty Brazil.

PARAGUAY v JAPAN

I must admit that I have previously been underestimated the Japanese and I apologise. They have shown great determination and techniques to get through their groups. Honda looks a fantastic player and I wish they could go further. But once again I am going to go against them and back Paraguay, they have been playing well and the defence looks very solid.

SPAIN v PORTUGAL