World Cup Power Rankings: The Bottom Eight After Matchday One

41. Czech Republic

Group A. Lost 2-1 to South Korea.

The Czechs looked sluggish and squandered an early advantage, bearing little resemblance to the side that captured hearts at Euro 96.

42. Uzbekistan

Group K. Lost 3-1 to Colombia.

They showed plenty of spirit and celebrated a historic first World Cup goal, yet struggled to contain Colombia’s dynamic attack.

43. South Africa

Group A. Lost 2-0 to Mexico.

They were generous hosts, offering little attacking threat and coughing up possession repeatedly before finishing the match with nine men.

44. Qatar

Group B. Drew 1-1 with Switzerland.

A fortunate point for the hosts, who were thoroughly outplayed by a Swiss side that should have won comfortably.

45. Paraguay

Group D. Lost 4-1 to USA.

Heavy defeat at the hands of the USA, and the scoreline flattered Paraguay. Their ultra-defensive approach made for grim viewing.

46. Tunisia

Group F. Lost 5-1 to Sweden.

They made history for the wrong reasons, parting ways with their manager immediately after a disastrous thrashing by Sweden.

47. Panama

Group L. Lost 1-0 to Ghana.

Featured in one of the tournament’s poorest spectacles so far. Panama appeared content with a draw until Ghana struck a dramatic 95th-minute winner.

48. Curaçao

Group E. Lost 7-1 to Germany.

A chastening 7-1 debut defeat, though their solitary goal against Germany provides a lasting memory.