Things pretty much went as expected on Day 12. Holland secured their position atop Group B, while Brazil and Mexico both advanced. Today, the quarterfinal picture becomes clearer with Groups C and D decided.
Yesterday in Brazil
The Netherlands got two late goals to beat Chile 2-0. While a draw would have seen the Oranje through as group winners, they left no doubt. Chile had their chances, but could not convert them. The Netherlands will face Mexico, who used a second half scoring burst to eliminate Croatia 3-1. Croatia fell apart at the end of the match, having a player sent off.
Mexico's impressive win wasn't enough to beat out Brazil for group winners though. The host nation had a relatively easy time with Cameroon, winning 4-1. Though Cameroon would tie the match at one, this was Neymar's day. He bagged two and gave Brazil a good lift into the knockout stages, where they will face Chile.
The only game with nothing on the line saw Spain top Australia 3-0. David Villa scored in his last international match. The win amounts to a consolation prize for Spain, who saw their dynasty come to an end. At least they managed to avoid leaving the World Cup pointless. The Australians cannot say the same, though the Soccerroos did entertain during their stay in Brazil.
Today in Brazil
Group D - Matches take place at 12:00 Eastern
Costa Rica-England
Costa Rica can win the group, but they'll face an England team with nothing to lose.
Seven Costa Rica players were asked to submit drug tests after their win over Italy. Costa Rica is not happy.
The Guardian looks at how Costa Rica was able to take the group by storm.
Frank Lampard will captain England, as Steven Gerrard will be on the bench for the final group stage match.
Italy-Uruguay
This one's pretty simple: winner moves on.taly admit that fatigue is a factor.
Luis Suarez says his knee is in great shape.
Who to watch: Has to be Italy-Uruguay. Costa Rica is already through and England are already done. A draw would see Italy through on goal differential. Uruguay need a win.
Group C - Matches at at 4:00 Eastern
Greece-Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast is hoping to punch their ticket, while Greece are looking for goals.
Have you wished Greece would score a little? So does their manager.
Ivory Coast would see their bonuses doubled if they make the knockout stages.
Two Ivory Coast players are remaining with the team after their brother passed away.
Here's hoping Tiote can stay on his feet this time. (And stay out of the book. He faces a suspension with another yellow card.)
Japan-Colombia
Japan is hoping to make an impression.
Columbia Records is changing it's name to support Japan.
Colombia is doing alright without Falco.
Who to watch: This is a tough one, as everyone in the group is still alive. But, with Colombia having a four goal lead in GD, they can probably assume they'll be group winners. So, we'll go with Ivory Coast-Greece. And, of course, having Newcastle's Tiote helps as well.