Tightly packed Group A was always going to be not just about the result but goal difference too.

Uruguay and Mexico Nab Top Spots in Group A

The recent controversy in the French camp spilled out onto the pitch yesterday, with both Anelka and captain Evra noticeably absent. They faced a South African side desperate to stay in the competition and who finally managed to pull out the stops and scoop all three points with a 2-1 victory.

In the Mexico v Uruguay match, after a fiercely contested first half, Suarez headed in the only goal which duly catapulted Uruguay to the top spot. The Group A results also assured Mexico the consolation prize of second place, based on goal difference.

The French team are now on their way home; their World Cup dreams shattered and their team in tatters. The hosts, having struggled throughout, are now also bowing out early, having been unable to match the caliber of the competition.

Argentina and South Korea top Group B

Triumphant Argentina were crowned Group B leaders as expected, with Greece's World Cup run brought to an abrupt end by the 2-0 score line.

In the other match a fierce fight for second place developed between Nigeria and South Korea. They battled it out in a four goal thriller which saw Nigeria often dominating but not taking the chances when they came. It was South Korea's resilience and focus that kept the score at 2-2 and scraped them enough points for the coveted number two spot.

England and Germany's Last Chance to Progress

Group C is still wide open with the prize still attainable for the most tenacious teams.

Two dire draws by a decidedly off-form England have left them with a final group game against Slovenia that they simply have to win today.

USA currently reside in second place but Algeria also have a shot at the number two slot if the other game's result goes their way.

In Group D Australia and Serbia have had checkered beginnings to the FIFA 2010 World Cup but both now need a win to guarantee passage ahead, although Serbia could also edge through with a draw depending on the other result.

Germany need to secure victory against Ghana in order to progress but have had performances at both ends of the scale so far. Ghana lead Group D and just need a draw to potentially be the only African side in the final sixteen.