World Cup Match Day 15 Predictions

Photo: Getty Images/FIFA/Sarah Stier

Curacao vs Cote d'Ivoire

The Elephants have looked organised and dangerous throughout the tournament and should have too much quality for Curacao.

Curacao have shown plenty of fight but have struggled to create consistent attacking opportunities against stronger opposition. Cote d'Ivoire's physicality and pace in transition could prove decisive as they look to secure another important three points.

Young midfielder Christ Inao Oulai impressed against Germany and is one to watch in this game.

Tip: Cote d'Ivoire wins 2-0
Goalscorer Tip: Christ Inao Oulai

Ecuador vs Germany

One of the most intriguing fixtures of the day.

Germany remain among the tournament favourites and have already locked up top slot in group E; but Ecuador have proven they can compete with anyone on their day and desperately need 3 points.

Their defensive structure and work rate could frustrate the Germans for long periods, with Germany likely to rest key players.

Despite this, Germany should enjoy more possession and create the better chances, but Ecuador's threat on the counterattack needs to click now, and just may be enough to earn a point against a second string German outfit.

Tip: 1-1 draw
Goalscorer Tip: Leroy Sane

Tunisia vs Netherlands

The Dutch have been one of the tournament's most entertaining sides and should enter this clash full of confidence following their round of 32 qualification.

Tunisia are more than capable of getting on the scoresheet against an attacking defence of the Netherlands, but the Netherlands' attacking firepower should ultimately prove too much.

The Netherlands are likely to rotate their side for this one, but behind the scenes, Tunisia has been a shambles and will struggle not to draw another blank in this game.

Tip: Netherlands win 3-1
Goalscorer Tip: Memphis Depay

Japan vs Sweden

Arguably the match of the day.

Japan have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, combining tactical discipline, relentless pressing and devastating attacking transitions. After dominating Saudi Arabia and dismantling Tunisia, confidence is soaring within Hajime Moriyasu's side.

Sweden will provide a far sterner test, however. Their physicality, defensive organisation and threat from set pieces make them a difficult opponent.

Expect a close contest, but Japan's movement and technical quality could be the difference once again, spurring the Samurai Blue onto a potential run to the final.

Prediction: Japan wins 2-1
Goalscorer Tip: Ao Tanaka

Turkiye vs USA

The United States possess plenty of attacking talent but will likely rest players in this game. Turkiye, led by their exciting young generation, have the quality to take advantage against a weakened USA side despite their consecutive losses.

Arda Guler continues to establish himself as one of world football's brightest stars and could be the player who decides this contest.

Turkiye have had 62 shots without a goal so far, and despite being knocked out of the World Cup already, have pride on the line and still need to produce a performance despite their appalling campaign.

Tip: Turkiye wins 2-1
Goalscorer Tip: Arda Guler

Paraguay vs Australia

The Socceroos have quietly put together a strong tournament and will fancy their chances of securing another positive result.

Paraguay are well organised and difficult to break down, so opportunities may be limited. Australia's defensive resilience has been one of their greatest strengths, and if they can remain compact, one goal could be enough.

A hard-fought victory would place the Socceroos in a strong position heading towards the knockout stages, and with Tony Popovic being pressured into starting an attacking trio of Nestroy Irankunda, Mohamad Toure, and Christian Volpato, Australia could seal a key win.

Tip: Australia wins 1-0
Goalscorer Tip: Cristian Volpato