2014 World Cup - Adeus Group C & D!

I'ts time to bid Adeus to the group stages!

Here's a look at those who didn't quite make the cut (some big names here!) -

England - Perhaps it's not really surprising that the Three Lions are out of this World Cup - their earliest exit from a Finals since 1954. There had been little fanfare and expectation from this team especially once they were drawn in the Group of Death. As usual, England lacked cutting edge up front even if Rooney did finally score a goal at a Finals. But more unusually, England's defence was weak as it has ever been - and with Ferdinand and Terry no longer on the scene, one wonders who will step up to the plate at the back? Raheem Sterling would seem himself unlucky not to go any further in this Cup.

Italy - Like England, should we be surprised to see Italy out this early after being drawn in the Group of Death? After a bright start against England in Manaus, it really all fell apart in a so-called winnable match against Costa Rica and they were far too negative and toothless in attack when they needed to be against Uruguay. After making the Final of the Euros against eliminated Spain, reality has struck Italy hard again. On the other hand, there is a fairly good crop of young players coming through the ranks to rebuild where Pirlo and Buffon will leave behind.

Japan - Spirited but ultimately had too much to do in a fairly straightforward group. Defeat against Côte d'Ivoire first up after behind ahead really hurt and the draw against Greece probably ended any realistic hope of progression with in form Colombia to face in their final game. 

Côte d'Ivoire - Could have and should have made it third time lucky. That last minute penalty awarded to Greece probably marked the beginning of the end of this golden generation of Elephants with Drogba, Zokora, Kalou,  Toure likely to bow out of international football after this. Gervinho was outstanding off the bench, creating plenty of chances to help his team get back into games.  

Those through to the next round -

Colombia look the best out of the four teams through from Groups C & D although it has to be said that their group wasn't exactly the strongest. Nevertheless, it seems as though Colombia are playing the way the hosts sharing their colours should be playing; each game they've played has been highly convincing - which makes you wonder how good they could be with injured striker Radamel Falcao. They face Uruguay in a tasty all South American Sunday to kick off the 2nd round - a team they've beaten in qualifying and could be without Luis Suarez.

For all the talk of that penalty and the fact that Greece are really lucky to be in the 2nd round, they will be tough opposition for the exciting Costa Ricans. However, they're not quite as tough defensively as they were in the Rehhagel days so don't expect a bus in front of goal - maybe a minivan. Costa Rica should do it though.