The following 2007 World Cup matchups are scheduled for Tuesday, November 13th in Taiwan.

GROUP A

USA (4-1) vs. South Africa (0-5)
A big mismatch that should provide Team USA an assortment of options ranging from resting some guys while getting certain guys a few plate appearances or some mound work. If you want to see the Americans score a few touchdowns – ala Dallas Cowboys – don’t miss this Texas Barbecue.

Italy (3-2) vs. Japan (3-2)
A “huge” game for the Italians who are trying to sneak into the next round. Japan will have their top pitchers available but for how many innings? Italy has a couple of guys hitting the ball with authority and if this gets contagious, just maybe the Italians can pick up the upset. But look for Japan to throw down the gauntlet and eliminate Italy from contention.

Mexico (2-3) vs. Spain (1-4)
The Mexicans slim quarter-final hopes rest on Taiwan dropping their final two contests against Panama and Team USA. Mexico must first take care of business and dispose of Spain before checking to see how Taiwan is faring. Anything can happen but Mexico can blamea 3-2 loss to Panama as their tournament-killer.

Panama (3-2) vs. Taiwan (4-1)
Taiwan needs this game more than Panama and should have their top pitchers ready to clinch a berth in the quarter-finals. But Panama has played solid, competitive baseball and will be relaxed knowing that South Africa will be in the opposing dugout on Wednesday. Taiwan should take this one but remember Mexico?

GROUP B

Thailand (0-5) vs. Cuba (5-0)
Another huge mismatch with the Cubans likely approaching the 26 markers the Aussies posted against the hapless Thai squad. The Cuban faithful will have plenty of offensive stories to share as the tournament favorites rout Thailand in a fiesta-style blowout.

Australia (4-1) vs. Germany (1-4)
The Aussies have looked darn good thus far this tournament and should get past Germany with ease on Tuesday. The Germans only hope might be if Australia is looking ahead to the group finale against Canada but even that might not be enough. The Aussies and Cuba are headed for a showdown to see who plays for the tournament title.

Canada (3-2) vs. Venezuela (1-4)
A win over the Venezuelans would put the Canadians into the quarter-finals regardless of the outcome in their group finale against the Aussies. An upset by Venezuela would put Canada in a must-win game against Australia to advance. A huge, huge game for Canada.

Korea (3-2) vs. Netherlands (3-2)
This is a huge game for both teams as the winner will advance to the next round while the loser goes home early. The biggest game of the day pits two solid teams in a winner-take-all shootout that should be fun to watch.

Photo/IBAF

Tags: World Cup