World Cup Roundup: One Third Through
So every team in the World Cup has now played a game. Now that we're 16 games in the books, let's take another look at the groups and what may have changed from original predictions.
Group A
This group gets a bit of a cheat, since they have one more game down than everyone else with Uruguay taking down host South Africa by a 3-0 final this afternoon. The loss doesn't end South Africa's hopes of advancement, but it certainly puts them on life support, as they would need to beat Mexico and have several other things happen. Likely to advance: Uruguay and the Mexico/France winner
Group B
This group, at least on paper, has a clear hierarchy - Argentina, then Nigeria and Korea, then Greece. Unless the Greeks pull off a stunner, the South Korea - Nigeria game should function as a Round of 16 play-in game. Likely to advance: Argentina and South Korea
Group C
This group is a bit muddy, but one thing is certain at this point - Algeria is backed into a corner, and Slovenia may decide the fate of the entire group. They could easily keep the US or England from advancing, or just as easily slide down to third with both teams left to play. Likely to advance: United States and Slovenia
Group D
Given the use of goal differential as a tiebreaker, Germany's domination of Australia may well have sealed those two team's fates. What's left of the Aussie's hopes will likely be dashed after their match against Ghana unless they can get offensive pressure earlier and more often. Likely to advance: Germany and Ghana
Group E
Japan's win over Cameroon and the Invisible Samuel Eto'o has tilted this group on its ear a bit. Denmark is still likely the group doormat, and now Cameroon may need to topple Denmark and the Netherlands to advance over Japan. Likely to advance: Netherlands and Japan
Group F
Two ties in the first two games of this group means absolutely nothing has been decided. New Zealand is still the heavy underdog, but the results have certainly turned the tables in Paraguay's favor a bit. Likely to advance: Italy and Paraguay
Group G
Brazil may have three points already, but this group appears closer than initially anticipated. It's unfortunate that North Korea's surprising play wasn't enough against one of the favorites, but it might be against the other two squads they face. Advancement for the others could depend on whether Ronaldo or Drogba's offense shows up first. Likely to advance: Brazil and Ivory Coast
Group H
Two games in, and the group featuring the heavy favorite to win the Cup sees that team sitting at the bottom of the standings. After a stunning 1-0 loss to Switzerland, the Spaniards have a lot of work to do and may need to win out to advance, which is no small feat even for a stacked team like theirs. Likely to advance: Chile and Spain
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