Quater-finals: Day 1

It seems like forever since a game was played, but after a two-day break, we finally get some action on the pitch.

Germany vs. Argentina
ESPN -11am ET

This might just be the most interesting game of the whole World Cup as these two teams have been playing the best soccer of the tournament. With the exception of the game against Mexico, Argentina has been fantastic, while Germany just keeps getting better.

Germany will probably field the same starting lineup as the Sweden match since Klinsmann has only made one non-injury related change to the lineup over the last three weeks. For Argentina, Luis Gonzalez will be back from his groin injury giving the side an additional offensive push.

With the fans overwhelming backing the home side, Argentina will need to come out and make a statement early. If they can take the crowd out of it, they will win, otherwise, Deutschland will again celebrate.

Prediction: Germany 2-1 Argentina

Italy vs. Ukraine
ESPN - 2pm ET

With Marco Materazzi out due to suspension and Alessandro Nesta still recovering, Italy will be hurting on defense, but with striker Andriy Voronin out because of a thigh injury, will the Ukraine, and Shevchenko, be able to take advantage of this?

The Italians have to hope their striking force is clicking as the Ukraine get Vyacheslav Svidersky and Andriy Rusol are back from suspension on defense. Look for Alberto Gilardino and Luca Toni to be backed up by an attacking Francesco Totti.

Ukraine will give the Italians a scare, but in the end, Italy will go through. The big question is will they need some help from the ref to make it happen.

Italy 1-0 Ukraine