Brazil topped their group, but not without a scare, as they were held to a goalless draw by a resilient Mexican side. Mexico’s goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, put in an outstanding performance, making several key saves. Croatia’s heavy loss to Mexico in the final match saw them eliminated.

The group was defined by the stunning opening match between Spain and the Netherlands. The Dutch, led by a flying Arjen Robben and a brilliant Robin van Persie, avenged their 2010 final loss with a 5-1 thrashing of the reigning champions. This loss, followed by another to Chile, saw Spain eliminated after just two games, one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history.

Colombia, led by the tournament’s top scorer James Rodríguez, were a revelation, winning all three of their group matches with a style and flair that won over fans worldwide. Greece secured their passage to the knockout stage with a last-gasp penalty against Ivory Coast, a moment of pure drama.

This “Group of Death” provided one of the biggest surprises of the tournament. Costa Rica, considered underdogs, won their group with a stunning victory over both Uruguay and Italy. England was eliminated after just two games, and the match between Italy and Uruguay was marred by the infamous biting incident involving Luis Suárez, which resulted in his ban from the tournament.

France showcased their attacking power with a dominant 5-2 win over Switzerland. Switzerland’s late winner against Ecuador was a thrilling moment, helping them secure second place in the group. Ecuador’s goalless draw with France was not enough to save them from elimination.

Argentina, with Lionel Messi at the forefront, won all three of their matches, though not always convincingly. Messi’s brilliant late winner against Iran was a moment of individual genius. Nigeria’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina was enough to see them through to the knockout stages for the first time since 1998.

The “Group of Death” lived up to its name. Germany’s dominant win over Portugal was a strong statement, but they were held to a surprising 2-2 draw by Ghana. The USA’s dramatic tie with Portugal, with a last-gasp goal, was a thrilling moment that ultimately saw them through on goal difference ahead of a star-studded Portugal side.

Belgium’s “Golden Generation” secured a perfect group stage record with three wins. Algeria’s thrilling 4-2 win over South Korea was enough to earn them a spot in the knockout stages for the first time in their history.