Match-by-match predictions: Quarterfinals

The memory of Paul the psychic octopus — the only true animal incarnation of Nostradamus whose predictions were ever to be trusted — lives on through our prediction of each and every match at this summer’s World Cup.

Eight teams remain. 

For the first time in the history of the tournament, all eight group winners have qualified for this stage of the competition. At this point, anybody could find themselves lifting the trophy on July 13.

Yes, even Costa Rica.

France vs. Germany - July 4, 12:00 PM EST (Maracana)

One team comes into the match after some less-than-inspiring performances, while the other has been the most impressive European nation at the competition.

Quick, which one is which? That's why they play the games. France has been terrific, while Germany have been underwhelming since they annihilated Portugal in their opening match of the tournament.

Die Mannschaft had serious problems containing Sofiane Feghouli in their win over Algeria, and if Joachim Loew persists with his desire to play four center-backs across the defense, Mathieu Valbuena and Antoine Griezmann are going to feast on them.

Additionally, Les Bleus' midfield trio of Paul Pogba, Blaise Matuidi and Yohan Cabaye is one of the few in the world that can adequately combat the Germans' collection of riches in the center of the park.

Prediction: France 2, Germany 1

Brazil vs. Colombia - July 4, 4:00 PM EST (Estadio Castelao)

The pick of the round?

Colombia has looked the most convincing of any team at the tournament so far, led by the dominant James Rodriguez.

Los Cafeteros' defense has not been tested significantly as of yet, something that was aided in no small manner by the absence of Luis Suarez in their Round of 16 win over Uruguay. Neymar will provide their greatest challenge yet, and should be able to breach the duo of Mario Yepes and Cristian Zapata.

That said, Rodriguez is simply untouchable at the moment, and the fact that the hosts will be without defensive midfielder Luiz Gustavo through suspension is a massive blow. Paulinho will likely slot back into the lineup. He cannot stop the Monaco star. Expect some goals in this one.

Prediction: Colombia 2, Brazil 2 (Colombia win 4-3 on penalties)

Argentina vs. Belgium - July 5, 12:00 PM EST (Estadio Nacional)

We expected these two teams to score freely in Brazil. Instead, both have struggled to find the net, with the South Americans relying on the brilliance of Lionel Messi while the Red Devils have been saved by their substitutes.

There is plenty of attacking talent on the pitch between these sides, but neither has really been able to hit top gear as of yet. 

It might not happen in this match, but considering the sheer skill level on display, there should be plenty of end-to-end action, even if the goals are hard to come by.

Prediction: Argentina 2, Belgium 1 (AET)

Netherlands vs. Costa Rica - July 5, 4:00 PM EST (Arena Fonte Nova)

On paper, this is the simplest match to forecast. 

Pedigree, man-for-man talent and star power all point towards a victory for the Oranje. The same was true when Uruguay, Italy and England came up against Los Ticos.

Expect Keylor Navas to be busy and Joel Campbell to cause some problems with his pace against Ron Vlaar, but ultimately this is where CONCACAF's participation in this tournament comes to an end.

Prediction: Netherlands 1, Costa Rica 0

Check back next week when we cast our predictive gaze over the semifinals.

R.I.P. Paul.