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Here's a preview of what we can expect in the second round of matches of Groups C and D of the Olympic Games Soccer Competition
Olympic Games SoccerMen's First Round - Group C - Match 13 New Zealand vs BrazilNew Zealand were only a few minutes away from recording a historic 1-0 victory over hosts China, but ended up settling for a 1-1 draw. This time around the All Whites will be up against much more difficult opposition in a star-studded Brazil side, and are likely to struggle heaps. The Brazilians are one of the favourites to win the Gold Medal, but weren't at their best against Belgium in their 1-0 victory last week. Everyone is hoping former World Footballer of the Year, Ronaldinho, will finally return to his top form. Expect Ronaldinho and co. to fire on all cylinders. If Brazil play to their capacity they will surely thrash the New Zealanders. Prediction: New Zealand 0-3 Brazil Men's First Round - Group C - Match 14 Belgium vs ChinaBelgium may have had no idea when it came to attacking against Brazil, but their defense proved its worth. They kept the Brazilians at bay for almost 80 minutes, but ended up losing 1-0 courtesy of a sensational goal from Hernanes. The good news is that China aren't anything close to Brazil. The hosts will press in front of a large backing, and will attack Belgium in numbers, but the Europeans know that they are capable of winning the match. Like New Zealand, who broke down the Chinese on swift counterattacks time and time again, Belgium will be looking to do the same. Both sides know that anything less than a victory will put an end to their Olympic dream. Prediction: Belgium 2-1 China Men's First Round - Group D - Match 15 Cameroon vs HondurasQHD Stadium can expect a match between two unpredictable sides who have a lot to prove. The Hondurans couldn't have had a worse debut against Italy, and even missed a penalty in their humiliating defeat. Against Cameroon they will look to get a victory, but if their defense play the same as they did against Italy they will surely be eliminated. The Lions needed a late strike from Mandjeck to hold Korea Republic to a 1-1 draw in their group opener. Much like Ivory Coast did against Argentina, Cameroon threatened Korea down the flanks, and demonstrated that they are capable of playing exciting effective soccer. If they play to their capacity they should ease past a vulnerable Honduras side. Prediction: Cameroon 2-0 Honduras Men's First Round - Group D - Match 16 Italy vs Korea RepublicItaly cruised to a 3-0 victory over Honduras in their Olympic Games debut, but now face a much more stronger Korea side. The Italians proved their quality in an outstanding display, where Giovinco and Rossi played some excellent soccer, and should be able to overcome the Koreans. Korea, who drew 1-1 with Cameroon, are one of those sides who never give up, but although they are very balanced they lack certain quality when it comes to finishing off their goal scoring opportunities. They should give the Italians a run for their money, but unless they play their hearts out they are likely to end up on the losing side. Prediction: Italy 2-1 Korea Republic
The copyright of the article Soccer Olympic Games in International Soccer is owned by Gregory Sica. Permission to republish Soccer Olympic Games in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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