LIONEL MESSI has won four consecutive man of the match accolades and this could well be his fifth. Although Argentina have failed to convince since the first game, the talisman, arguably the best in the game’s history, has been good.

Four goals and two assists in four games and Belgium will need much more than just hard work to stop Messi. The trouble for Belgium is that unlike Iran, Bosnia, Nigeria and Switzerland, they are considered favourites of some sorts. They also have it in themselves that they are better than Argentina thus far.

This would leave more room for Messi to exploit and Belgium will be more interested in killing the game, unlike the other minions Argentina have faced who played to contain the threat posed by Messi, Di Maria and Aguero.

But to come through this game, Argentina must cut over reliance on the little magician. Thus far, only Messi, Rojo (who is suspended) and keeper Romero have been playing with interest. Mascherano has only provided 50-50 in defensive midfield, Di Maria has flattered to deliver, while Aguero and Higuain can as well be counted nonperformers.

Belgium, though, are brimming with optimism. They have the squad that leaves Argentina wanting. They can call up the bench to boost the starting XI, something Argentina have no luxury for. But their defence is still suspect.

Argentina 3-1 Belgium

In the other quarter final, Costa Rica will be aiming for a record by making the semifinals of the World Cup. Theirs have been a Cinderella tale but unless they are Greece (Euro 2004), such tales end before the promised land.

Netherlands have the belief and the team. They have been playing well and scoring goals. But tonight, they will need someone to take over responsibility from Robben since the speedy winger looks a marked to referees after his admission that he went down too easily many a time during the Mexico clash.

Costa Rica 1-2 Netherlands