Spain 1, Italy 1

The Italians looked like a CFL team in South Africa two years ago, going three-and-out at the 2010 World Cup and causing panic back home in the process. But Italy always seems to rise up in the midst of scandal like the game-fixing one that is rocking the country right now. Defending champion Spain had best be wary of the Azzurri.

Croatia 1, Republic of Ireland 0

The heart goes with the Irish but the head gives the nod to Croatia. The Croatians are 10 spots higher than the Irish in FIFA world rankings (8 vs. 18) but no one has more fun than the Irish fans. Besides, can you imagine the party if Ireland wins?