Uruguay and Mexico currently lead the way in Group A with four points apiece and a draw between them in Rustenburg would send both through to the last 16. Neither will enjoy the thought of facing Argentina in the next round, however, and that ought to motivate both to pursue a victory that would allow either South Africa or France to take advantage, despite the latter duo having collected a solitary point each so far. Whatever happens, the tournament is about to lose at least one major participant, with the host nation having never fallen at this stage in past editions and crisis-stricken France runners-up just four years ago.
In Group B, Argentina stand on the verge of the knockout phase, even if they could still conceivably be eliminated on goal difference if they lose to Greece and three teams finish on six points. Realistically, Diego Maradona’s men possess a healthy grip on top spot, while Korea Republic appear favourites to grab second place behind them. A draw in their meeting with Nigeria would see the Asian side through, depending on the outcome of Greece’s match against the leaders.
