Match Reports:

Germany v Costa Rica - Poland v Ecuador
Germany v Poland - Ecuador v Costa Rica
Ecuador v Germany - Costa Rica v Poland

Second Stage: Ecuador are the surprise group toppers and only need to draw with Germany in the final game to stay there. One of these two will play England in the first knockout game.

Germany as so often in the past, have started to improve during the tournament. They put on a stirring performance against Poland, but still look a bit fragile at the back. Realistically though, not many sides will fancy Germany on home soil.

Ecuador have looked very solid and will not be easy opponents in the knockout stages. Very well organised, and difficult to break down.

Cost Rica and Poland are going home after they play each other in their final group game. Poland will be much happier with their game against Germany, but will still be disappointed they didn't give Ecuador any problems. Costa Rica have probably lived up to expectations.

First Impressions: The opening game saw Germany flattered by their 4-2 scoreline against Costa Rica, but a typically just sufficient type of performance should make them favourites to qualify for the knockout stages. They did look very dodgy at the back, and their lumbering centre halves will surely be exposed by any team with a modicom of pace. Costa Rica have it all to do, but the other two sides in the group will not have them cowering in fear.

Poland were very disappointing in their defeat to Ecuador, but they will surely be up for their next game with Germany. That should be a real cracker and sparks will fly. Don't put it past Poland producing an upset, but they need to find a threat in front of goal.

Ecuador looked very efficient in their opening game, very well organised and difficult to break down. A second win against Costa Rica sees them through, so expect an end to end game there as well.