OPINION: Thirty-two nations came to Russia dreaming of World Cup glory; only 16 remain.
The battle for a spot in the second round was exciting, at times tedious, controversial and in Germany's case, shocking.
But which teams have stood out?
Here are my power rankings after the group stage.
1. Croatia
More than just a dark horse now, Croatia are a legit threat to be in the final.
The 1998 semi-finalists have found themselves on the 'easier' side of the draw and their only fear would be a potential quarter-final with Spain.
2. Belgium
Okay, so their final group game was a snooze-fest with the Poms but they have the talent on show to go deep. Belgium should be too classy for Japan, setting up a potential quarter-final with Brazil.
3.Brazil
The 'Samba Boys' coasted through their first two games before stepping up a few gears against Serbia. You should be putting your hard earned on Brazil or Belgium in the final.
4. Sweden
The Seedes have had a great tournament despite the agonising loss to the Germans. They dominated Mexico to earn themselves a real shot at making the last four for the first time since 1994.
5. Uruguay
Topped the weakest group in the tournament, but showed their class when matched up against the hosts. Are super-solid at the back and have genuine attacking quality up front. Have shown enough to suggest they should beat Portugal.
6. Portugal
It's Ronaldo or bust for Portugal. The former Manchester United frontman is the only reason I have them this high. Their clash with Iran was one of the best and most dramatic games of pool play, which should prepare them well for the South Americans.
7. Spain
Topping their group was huge for the Spaniards. Portugal were minutes away from the preferred side of the draw, but the Spaniards' last-gasp goal booked them a winnable match with Russia. But the impressive Croatia potentially awaits them in the quarter-finals.
8. Colombia
England beware. The South Americans are my sleeper team to make the final. Hugely impressive in their final two games, after playing over 90 minutes with 10 players in a 2-1 opening loss to Japan. I sense more heartache awaits for the Poms when the clash with Colombia next week.
9. France
I have them in the work sweep, so hoping they improve on a fairly lacklustre three-games. They arguably have the most talented 23-man squad in Russia, but they just haven't clicked yet.
Scratchy against both Peru and Australia, they produced one-half of the worst game of the tournament against Denmark.
Facing an Argentinian side with their back against the wall will be a real test for one of the pre-World Cup favourites.
10. England
Barely made the cut this week. They have found themselves on the side of the draw they wanted, but face the scariest team no one is talking about in Colombia. They have the tools to get the job done, and a semi-final is a possibility if they can squeeze past the South Americans.
Brad Lewis is a senior digital sport producer for Newshub.
