Olympics: Who needs what to go through?

Some teams may already be certain of a spot in the Olympic quarter finals, many others have everything left to fight for on Wednesday. Here’s an overview.

Group A

Argentina are already through to the next round and won’t be bothering too much versus Serbia, who in turn need a win to survive.

But Serbia also depend on the outcome of the other match. Ivory Coast have three points from two games, while the Serbs and Australians have only one.

If the Africans beat Australia in their final group match, they are certainly through to the next stage. In case of a draw, Serbia might squeeze through. And in the last scenario, an Australian win, everything depends on Australia’s and Serbia’s goal record.

Group B

The United States and Nigeria lead the second group with four points each, but face each other in their final match. This might allow the Netherlands to surpass their two rivals with a win over Japan. The Asians are already out of contention.

A win would send the USA, or Nigeria, through to the quarter finals. If the Netherlands beat Japan, they would go through as well.

If the Dutch win but the other match ends in a draw, goal records should provide more clarity.

Group C

The Brazilians will be more focused on their quarter final clash, but Dunga’s men do still have a match with hosts China ahead of them as well. China need a win to have a small chance of advancing, but all depends on Belgium’s result versus New Zealand.

A Belgian win would be enough for the Europeans to finish second in this group. A draw could allow the Chinese to move into second place, although the Asians would have to beat Brazil by three or more goals.

The better scenario for China is a New Zealand victory over the Belgians. New Zealand have one point – just like China – but their minus five goal record makes things practically impossible.

Group D

Of all groups, this group seems to have the fewest possible outcomes at this stage. Italy are already through after two wins, and face second-placed Cameroon in their last game. For Cameroon, a draw would be enough.

If Cameroon lose, this provides South Korea with a small chance of surviving this stage. The Koreans would need a comfortable win over already-eliminated Honduras.

Wednesday’s matches are scheduled to start at 5pm and 8:45pm local time.