It's time to bid Adeus to the group stages!
Here's a look back at those who didn't quite make the grade -
Australia - the Socceroos actually did far better than many expected them too after such an average buildup, although is still doubtful as to whether they could have made the 2nd round from an easier group. Nevertheless, Australia should be proud of Tim Cahill, Mark Bresciano et al.'s efforts. It's now up to the likes of Tommy Rogic and Mile Jedinak to lead the next generation.
Croatia - the Croats can probably count themselves a bit unlucky - the straw that broke the camel's back was that penalty awarded to Brazil in the first game just as the Croats looked like they could hold on for a famous 1-1 draw. With Mexico eventually drawing with Brazil, it meant the Croats had to win two of their last games to qualify. Ivan Rakitic and Mario Mandzukic enhanced their reputations at this tournament and are a bit unlucky not to play on at this tournament.
Cameroon - probably one of the worst teams to feature at this World Cup. Scored one goal, conceded 9 - and it should have been 12 had the linesman in their first game against Mexico gone to Specsavers. The Indomitable Lions are no longer Africa's finest and with an aging squad, Cameroon might very well struggle to make another World Cup.
Spain - plenty has been said about the world champions no more. Age finally caught up with this greatest of sides and perhaps fitting for dramatics, they crashed out in stunning style. Villa, Torres, Xavi, Casillas probably said goodbye to international footie, their places set to be taken over by Mata, Koke and de Gea in years to come.
Out of the teams through -
The Dutch absolutely look like the best side in the world right now and the team to beat. But, the knockout stages are a different kettle of fish and the Dutch still have the hoodoo of all those failed Finals. Their charge to a first ever world title will be heavily dependent on Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben staying fit till the end - they've scored 4 goals between them, well ahead of the rest of the team. Should beat a much-improved Mexico though.
Brazil have shown that they are not that invincible after all and I have my doubts as to whether they can win the World Cup on their home soil. Defensively, they are not the best and they are far too dependent on Neymar for goals - as Mexico showed, they can be shut down and knockout football will see more buses parked in front of goal. Should beat a spirited Chile - who might be deflated after that 2-0 loss to Holland - nevertheless
Out of the teams through -
The Dutch absolutely look like the best side in the world right now and the team to beat. But, the knockout stages are a different kettle of fish and the Dutch still have the hoodoo of all those failed Finals. Their charge to a first ever world title will be heavily dependent on Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben staying fit till the end - they've scored 4 goals between them, well ahead of the rest of the team. Should beat a much-improved Mexico though.
Brazil have shown that they are not that invincible after all and I have my doubts as to whether they can win the World Cup on their home soil. Defensively, they are not the best and they are far too dependent on Neymar for goals - as Mexico showed, they can be shut down and knockout football will see more buses parked in front of goal. Should beat a spirited Chile - who might be deflated after that 2-0 loss to Holland - nevertheless
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