OPINION: The race for the World Cup trophy is in full flight, with varying stories of success, heartbreak, failure and shock.
From Germany’s near exit to Russia’s two dominant wins, the tournament is shaping up to be a cracker.
That said, some sides have stood out among the rest.
Here are my Power Rankings after the second round.
1.Croatia
Big jump from seventh last week, but more than deserved. Have never seen Argentina embarrassed to that level in a World Cup.
Croatia are virtually assured to top their group, win or lose against Iceland.
2.Mexico
Last week’s number one-ranked side had another impressive win, topping South Korea 2-1. They look solid at that back and dangerous going forward.
3.England
They just top Belgium, because my mum was born in Surrey. Pose a genuine threat to any defence, with names like Kane, Rashford, Alli, Sterling and Lingard.
4.Belgium
Their showdown with England probably won't tell us much, as reports suggest they will rest their big guns. This could be their tournament to lose, if they continue to fire in front of goal.
5.Switzerland
Great start for one of Europe's most underrated sides. The Swiss are well on track to potentially top their group, if they get a big win over Costa Rica.
6.Brazil
Not convinced with this version of the South American giants, but they have the ability to run through every team in Russia. Neymar was much better against Costa Rica and Coutinho is in the form of his life, but a potential second-round showdown with Germany spells bad news for the 'Samba Boys'.
7.Colombia
Have come from nowhere to jump into the Power Rankings, after routing Poland. Showed what they can do with 11-men on the park for more than three minutes.
A mouthwatering second-round opponent for either England or Belgium.
8.Nigeria
The 2-0 loss to Croatia doesn't look so bad now. Simply superb against Iceland, Nigeria and Senegal are holding the African fort in Russia, with the Nigerians in pole position to get out of Group D with a point against Argentina.
9.Russia
They are reportedly juiced to the eyeballs, but you can't deny the results. Then again, who have they beaten - a poor Saudi Arabian side and a disappointing Egypt, whose best player was half-fit.
10.Portugal
Squeezed in over Spain because they have the tournament’s best player. They weren’t impressive in a 1-0 win over Morocco, but Ronaldo provides a threat that no side can fully contain.
Note: France and Uruguay haven't impressed, despite two wins from two, so Ronaldo's prescience has Portugal ahead of both these sides.
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