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.
