The African story has been harsh. South Africa, Ivory Coast, Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo all reached the knockout stage, yet none progressed from their opening tie. Algeria are now the continent’s final chance.
Their qualification was secured in a 3-3 draw with Austria, a result that underlined both their attacking threat and defensive vulnerability. Switzerland offer a different challenge, but Algeria cannot afford another slow start if they are to carry the African challenge into the next round.
Austria’s familiarity with Algeria adds another layer to the tournament narrative. The North Africans have already survived one high-scoring meeting with the Austrian side; now they must turn that escape into momentum.
Spain’s position is more straightforward. The European champions know that victory over Austria sends them through, making their 1x2 win market the most direct angle among Thursday’s fixtures.
There is also a possible reward beyond the immediate tie: a meeting with Portugal in the next round remains on the route, although that scenario depends on the wider bracket. Spain’s status gives them the strongest pre-match profile, but the last 32 leaves little room for complacency.
Portugal versus Croatia is less about a simple form call and more about two enduring midfield-era storylines. Ronaldo and Modrić were former Real Madrid team-mates, and either player could be making a final World Cup appearance.
That personal history will dominate the build-up, but Croatia remain capable of making Portugal work for progression. For Portugal, Ronaldo’s presence still defines the tournament’s attention; for Croatia, Modrić remains central to their hopes.
Algeria’s meeting with Switzerland comes first for Africa’s last survivors, while Spain and Portugal will look to convert heavyweight status into last-16 places.