Elephants Restore Some Pride, Bore Draw Between Brazil and Portugal, Spain Edge Chileans, Negative Swiss Out

Game 45: North Korea 0-3 Ivory Coast

The African side went into the game as if the 9 goal swing that was required for them to progress was going to be a reality. They started off hot - attacking the Koreans at will and perhaps with a little more quality and composure, they would have scored 3 within the first 20 minutes. It wasn't meant to be but the Ivorians can count themselves unlucky. A win against Portugal would have see them through to the Round of 16. North Korea, meanwhile, truly showed why they are the lowest ranked team in the competition. But then again, qualifying for the World Cup itself can be considered a great achievement.

Game 46: Portugal 0-0 Brazil

Both these teams played as though it was a practice match. Unbelievable. A very boring game. The Portuguese defended the whole game as they knew they only needed a draw to progress. In other words, a pathetic game especially when fans expect quality football from both sides. Brazil play Chile in the Round of 16 and must step up offensively after this poor attacking performance. Portugal play Spain and Ronaldo might just fancy his chances against some familiar faces but I still think Spain would be strong enough to beat them. Man of the Match: Lucio (Brazil's skipper defended brilliantly at times and showed good skill to bring the ball up the field on a few occasions)

Game 47: Chile 1-2 Spain

The world number 2 team in football showed their weaknesses against pacey attacking teams. Chile were on top for a good part of 20 minutes and Spain were struggling to keep up. But against the run of play, the excellent David Villa once again showed why he is one of the best strikers in the world. The way he scored the first takes a lot of pure good timing and skill. Setting up the second goal for his team was the icing on the cake. The game fizzled out especially in the last 15 minutes as both teams knew they were going through. Spain must look out for Ronaldo's pace especially on the counter attack if they are to get past Portugal. Chile must cut out defensive errors against Brazil. If they do, it will be a very close match. Man of the Match: David Villa (scored a great goal and sets up the other - what more can you ask for)

Game 48: Switzerland 0-0 Honduras

The Swiss showed they are a side that just cannot score goals. That 1 goal they scored against Spain was just a fluke. Their negative play cost them, just like how it cost Greece. Simply not good enough when going forward and deserve to go out. Honduras, like North Korea and New Zealand, were just happy to play in the World Cup. Elimination were written all over them before they even kicked a ball in South Africa. But credit to them, they battled hard each game just like the All Whites and deserved their solitary point against the Swiss.