The Round of 16 picture will take final shape after today's games as the curtain falls on Groups G and H. Three hopefuls will be able to toast their progress at the final whistle, with Brazil having stayed faithful to a 32-year tradition by booking their ticket with a match to spare.
The five-time winners face Portugal in a final contest high on prestige, even if their cousins from across the Atlantic are also strongly placed in Group G thanks to their three-point cushion over Côte d'Ivoire and a comfortable goal-difference advantage. The Elephants will nonetheless pursue their slim chance to the full by trying to rack up a heavy win over Korea DPR.
Everything remains feasible in Group H, on the other hand, with all four contenders dreaming of the knockout phase. Front-runners Chile are in the healthiest position given their six points from two outings and a draw against Spain would guarantee them top spot, while the European champions must triumph to have a chance of doing the same. They face pressure from Switzerland, who meet Honduras, and wins for both European teams would leave three sides on six points and everything coming down to goal difference or goals scored. In short, expect suspense.
The matches
Korea DPR-Côte d'Ivoire, Group G, Nelspruit, 16.00
Portugal-Brazil, Group G, Durban, 16.00
Chile-Spain, Group H, Tshwane/Pretoria, 20.30
Switzerland-Honduras, Group H, Mangaung/Bloemfontein, 20.30
