By Yoni Ginsberg

Robinho celebrates in Ireland – photo credit: Belfast Telegraph

In preparation for the World Cup, there will be some International Friendlies this week. Lets take a look at the matches:

Ireland vs Brazil- Croke Park hosted the first game today with Ireland taking on the Brazilians. Keith Andrews had an own-goal for Ireland, but it was Robinho’s goal that will surely grab headlines tomorrow. The Santos striker is showing us that he will be ready for South Africa, despite a lackluster stint at Manchester City.

The remaining matches will be held on Wednesday.

Germany vs Argentina- The European powerhouse faces Messi and friends at Bayern’s Allianz Arena. This match should have a final feel to it as I’m sure each of these coaches will want to test his squad’s potential. Prediction: Germany with the home field advantage, 2-0.

Netherlands vs USA- American head coach Bob Bradley has filled his squad with non MLS players including Joze Altidore, Landon Donovan, and Maurice Edu (who most recently grabbed a game-winner in the Galsgow derby). However, the Dutch are always an extremely technical team with great passing and discipline. Prediction: Wesley Sneijder with a brace, Netherlands 3-1.

England vs Egypt- The Three Lions face the newly crowned African champions in Wembley Stadium.  Rooney, Lampard, and new captain Rio Ferdinand shouldn’t have trouble taking on Amr Zaki and Mido. Prediction: England 3-0.

France vs Spain- Perhaps the day’s most interesting and exciting match has Les Blues taking on the holding European champions.  The game is in the Stade De France and the crowd will surely play a factor in this one. France, however, will need to do a lot in order to keep up with a team (which I think) is better than they are. Prediction: 1-1, Benzema and David Villa.

What do you think?  Predictions anybody?