One to 16 – Ranking every remaining team in the World Cup

1: France

The tournament has looked unbeaten so far. Kylian Mbappe is fearsome in attack and looking in top form. The team must lose.

2: Spain

Quietly effective so far. After a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in their opening match, Spain are quietly going through the gears. More to come as well.

3: Argentina

Lionel Messi. What else needs to be said? As the ‘Little Magician’ leads, Argentina looked very impressive despite a huge scare against Cape Verde before coming 3-2 into the last 32.

4: Brazil

Not many were talking about Brazil pre-tournament but Carlo Ancelotti is getting a tune out of them. With Vinicius Jr. firing, you won’t deny them.

5: Morocco

Semi-finalist four years ago and looks capable of going deep again. Will be a tough opponent for anyone.

6: Colombia

One of the most exciting teams in the World Cup so far. Full of speed and dynamism with Luis Diaz sprinkled with stardust.

7: Mexico

Explosive in attack and hard rock in back. A comfortable draw so far but will no doubt be a huge test for England.

8: England

Had a brilliant second half in their opener against Croatia, winning 4-2, but have since struggled to hit such heights. Worked but needs improvement.

9: Norway

It might be unfair to be so low. Erling Haaland looks full of goals – as always – with a capable supporting cast. More difficult than spectacular.

10: United States

Football fever is growing in the state with the hosts looking for an organized direction. Lacking that X-factor can hurt them.

11: Portugal

This tournament has yet to kick into gear but still. Players are still able to cast spells.

12: Switzerland

A first World Cup knockout win since 1938 is something to celebrate for Switzerland. Their tournament has been smooth so far but Colombia will be a huge test.

13: Egypt

Mohamed Salah has to come to the team to go further.

14: Belgium

Senegal played long in the last 32, they somehow found a way, coming from two down to win 3-2. It needs to improve drastically to go further.

15: Canada

Probably already exceeded expectations. It only gets harder from here, though.

16: Paraguay

Despite one of the shocks of the tournament so far, defeat to Germany could make further progress difficult.