1. Brazil (last ranking: 1) – Went into cruise control against Portugal but still the best all-round outfit seen so far.
2. Argentina (2) – Blessed with magnificent attacking talents, the Argentines are stuck with a dangerous draw.
3. Spain (5) – Recovered seamlessly from disappointing opening defeat to Switzerland and now look strong.
4. Netherlands (3) – Yet to really burst into life but have the ability to go all the way.
5. Portugal (4) – Will Ronaldo lift them on his shoulders or will his single-mindedness cost them?
6. Germany (10) – Will go head-to-head with England in a clash with national pride at stake.
7. England (13) – Crept through from Group C despite three mediocre performances and low confidence.
8. Uruguay (7) – Diego Forlan’s attacking threat makes the two-time champion a sleeper to watch.
9. Paraguay (9) – Steady more than spectacular, but won’t be afraid of anyone in the knockout stage.
10. Chile (8) – The Chileans looked nervous and tentative against Spain and will be a huge underdog against Brazil.
11. United States (14) – A nice draw and a wave of confidence has good vibes flowing through the USA camp.
12. Mexico (6) – In-fighting and personality clashes are threatening to undermine El Tri’s challenge.
13. Ghana (17) – The last remaining African side has the pride of a continent to uphold in Rustenburg.
14. Slovakia (25) – Fine effort to get out of the group but surely the road ends here.
15. Japan (18) – Tremendous attacking soccer helped oust Cameroon and Denmark and set up a deserved last-16 spot.
16. South Korea (22) – Short on genuine firepower, but the South Koreans have exceptional fitness and resolve.
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