The quarterfinals are traditionally where the real clear-out process happens, although this year we have already seen several powerhouses falling in the previous rounds. Friday will see Africa’s sole survivor Ghana take on Uruguay, after the big clash of hopefuls Netherlands against mighty Brazil. Nick Malkoutzis and George Georgakopoulos assess the first two matches in the tournament's top-eight.

Quarter-final 1

Netherlands v Brazil

Venue: Port Elizabeth

Time: 17:00, 14:00 GMT

Nick says: Brazil against Netherlands has all the makings of a classic. Two sides that are more about geometry than industry should ensure that this will be one of the most entertaining games of this World Cup. If their encounters in 1998 or 1994 are anything to go by, then we won’t be disappointed. However, in his excellent blog on Brazilian football, Tim Vickery, points out that it was the 1974 meeting between these two teams that was the seminal encounter, laying the seeds of doubt in Brazilian minds about the way they played “the beautiful game.” It should be pointed out though that the 1974 squad was a substandard Brazilian team – coach Mario Zagallo had failed to talk Pele out of retirement – that was poorly prepared for the tournament. The same cannot be said of Dunga’s team, who might not be the all-passing, all-singing samba boys many would like them to be but they have proved they are effective. They have shown that they can get goals when they need them and that for me will be the difference between the two teams as I don’t think the Dutch have really been tested and I am convinced that there are some frailties in their team.

Verdict: Netherlands 1 Brazil 2

George says: No doubt this is the big one of the day, with the Dutch being comfortable with the outsiders’ label but preparing to field a full-strength squad against a Brazil side with some problems in midfield: Elano is out injured, Ramirez is suspended and Felipe Melo is doubtful for this one. With Arjen Roben in full fitness, Holland will likely give the five-time champions a good run for their money, in what could turn out to be the best match of the tournament so far, decided in extra time.

Verdict: Netherlands 2 Brazil 3 aet (2-2 after 90 mins)

FINAL SCORE: NETHERLANDS 2 BRAZIL 1

Quarter-final 2

Uruguay v Ghana

Venue: Soccer City, Johannesburg

Time: 21.30, 18.30 GMT

Nick says: This is an evenly balanced game which could go either way potentially. And when I mean either way, it could turn out to be a game full of chances and skilful football or both teams could sit back and try to sneak a goal. They have both contributed positively to the World Cup so far, so it would be a shame if we get the second. Although I have been pleasantly impressed with Uruguay, who have proved at this tournament that they can play incisive attacking football, it would be such a great achievement for Ghana to make the semis at this particular World Cup. Their progress would make up for the disappointment of seeing the other African teams go out of the tournament so early. It would also be a reward for the west African country’s rich footballing history. My heart says Ghana and sometimes you just have to follow your heart.

Verdict: Uruguay 0 Ghana 1 (AET)

George says: Home advantage may matter little for the Ghanaians, although few would doubt that FIFA would love to see an African side reach the semifinals of the World Cup for the first time ever, in the first tournament held in this continent. Yet the Celeste possess the quality, experience and stamina to see this one through and reach their first World Cup semifinal in 40 years. Ghana have severalinjury worries and will field a below-strength team. In what is shaping as the ideal tournament for the South Americans, Uruguay should have their spot in the semis booked by Friday night. The Garra Charrua (Uruguayan claws) should prevail.

Verdict: Uruguay 2 Ghana 1

FINAL SCORE: URUGUAY 1 GHANA 1 (Uruguay win 4-2 on penalties)