Canada’s last paddle to the podium:
A good chunk of Canada’s medals have come at Eton Dorney, the lake hosting all the majority of the rowing, kayaking and canoeing events. Canada will have two more shots at gold in 200-m kayaking. The first will come in the singles from Mark de Jonge, who posted the best semi-final time. The second chance will be in the doubles Hughes Fournel and Ryan Cochrane (not to be confused with Ryan Cochrane, Canada’s silver medallist in swimming of the same name and spelling). It will a final chance to push the nation up the medal standings.
Approximate time to watch: Men’s kayaking Saturday, 10a.m. Eastern/7a.m. Pacific CTV
Brazil’s last soccer crown:
Brazil is often regarded as the best soccer nation of all time. It’d be hard to disagree with their record five World Cup championships. The one thing missing from their nations resume, however, is Olympic gold. Look for Brazilian superstar Neymar, who will soon be one of the highest paid players in Europe, to show his country the way. That is, unless Mexico has something to say about it.
Approximate time to watch: Men’s soccer final: Brazil vs. Mexico Saturday, 10 a.m. Eastern/7a.m. Pacific CTV
Upset central:
There were two certainties going into the 2012 Olympics:
1. The Jamaican 4 x100-m relay team are a shoe-in for gold with the likes of Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake.
2. USA’s basketball “dream team” would crush the competition. This weekend, they’ll only get one chance to prove their worth. If either team loses, it will be an upset of epic proportions.
Look for USA’s 4 x 100-m relay team, anchored by bronze medallist Justin Gatlin, to be the team running for more than a silver medal. In the basketball gold medal game, it will be Team Spain, led by brothers Marc and Pau Gasol, to be the country looking to end any talks of Team USA being one of the all-time greatest.
Approximate time to watch: 4 x 100-m relay: Saturday, 4 p.m. Eastern/1 p.m. Pacific CTV
Men’s basketball gold medal final: USA vs. Spain: Sunday, 10 a.m. Eastern/7 a.m. Pacific CTV
The only way to end it:
Remember how spectacular the opening ceremonies were? The Queen jumped out of a helicopter with James Bond. An army of Mary Poppins fought Voldemort. Mr. Bean made a cameo in Chariots of Fire. The closing ceremonies won’t be as grandiose (or expensive), but expect some British wit and plenty of guest appearances from big name stars.
Approximate time to watch: Closing ceremonies: Sunday, 4 p.m. Eastern/1p.m. Pacific CTV