Football World Cup: Quarter-final Power Rankings

It’s been a phenomenal Football World Cup that has provided sporting theatre at its best, specifically this past week.

The quarter-finals will only see that ramp up about 100 percent, especially if England’s run continues.

So who’s hot and who’s not heading into the business end in Russia?


1.Brazil

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 27:  Neymar of Brazil waves to the crowd following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Serbia and Brazil at Spartak Stadium on June 27, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.  (Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)

Generally, this is the time when the cream rises to the top and as much as I hate this edition of the Brazilian team, they look very good.

As solid a Brazilian defence has been since 1994, they have attacking flair to burn. Neymar's actions have left a foul taste in the mouths of many and hopefully karma bites back against Belgium.

2.France

They struggled to impress during group play, but when Argentina brought the game to them, they responded with a fantastic second-half display that showed why they were one of the tournament favourites.

It doesn't get any easier against Uruguay, who pose a much tougher defensive proposition and are just as potent on attack as Argentina.

3.Belgium

Football World Cup: Quarter-final Power Rankings

Loving what they have brought to Russia. They attacked without fear and defended high, offering opposition sides a genuine chance at catching them out.

On paper, their back three is as good as any left In Russia, but they did concede a total of four goals against Tunisia and Japan. They are a legit threat to halt Brazil's run and I, for one, hope that happens.

Football World Cup: Quarter-final Power Rankings

4.Croatia

Have been the most consistent team at the tournament, but struggled to break down the stubborn Danes and their outstanding goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel.

On the 'easier' side of the draw and should have too much class for Russia, booking a second World Cup semi-final in the process.

5.Uruguay

SAMARA, RUSSIA - JUNE 25:  Luis Suarez of Uruguay celebrates scoring a goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Uruguay and Russia at Samara Arena on June 25, 2018 in Samara, Russia.  (Photo by Fred Lee/Getty Images)

Their clash with Portugal was uneventful, aside from the three -goals scored. Both sides had trouble creating opportunities, but that is not Uruguay's game.

The best defensive side at the tournament so far, the South Americans will look to frustrate France and score from set-piece or the counter-attack.

6.England

Football World Cup: Quarter-final Power Rankings

They rode a rollercoaster of emotions against Colombia and were within two minutes of a quarter-final when the South Americans scored. They then found themselves on the back foot for most of extra-time, before going behind in the shootout.

This appears to be a different England and they will hold no fears of Sweden.

7.Sweden

As hard to watch as any side at the tournament. They play simple, but very effective football, similar to Uruguay, but pose little threat on attack.

They are very good at set-piece, both offensively and defensively, but it's hard to see them scoring against England.

Could be wrong, but they should be out of the tournament come Sunday morning.

Football World Cup: Quarter-final Power Rankings

8.Russia

Arguably the worst team ever to make a World Cup quarter-final. They played for penalties against Spain, who only had themselves to blame.

Can't see them getting the better of Croatia, who have the best midfield in the tournament and will dominate the ball.

Newshub.