Our pre-tournament fancies Spain had a horrible wobble against Switzerland.

But the bookies still have them listed as 11/2 third favourites behind Argentina and Brazil so let’s hope they progress and the early scare cuts-out any more complacency.

Our other tip Germany have “surprised” the pundits by being quite good at the World Cup.

The 16/1 has disappeared after their demolition of Australia but they still make some appeal at 7s with a winning combination of flair, pace and efficiency.

Argentina are great going forward but defensive howlers could be their undoing when it comes to competing with the very top sides.

We’re sticking with Spain to recover from a dreadful start and stamp their class on this tournament.

But there is money to be made on a match-by-match basis and it seems the bookies have underestimated both Korean teams.

South Korea came out second best against a rampant Argentina. But their final group match against Nigeria will be a less daunting affair and the 11/4 on offer looks a tempting price.

Portugal were simply awful against the Ivory Coast and look far from a happy team.

North Korea battled bravely against Brazil and grabbed a late consolation in the 2-1 defeat which will see them in great heart.

General quotes of 11/1 for North Korea to beat Portugal seem way to high.

So what of England? They should cruise past Algeria tonight but unfortunately we’ve seen at least half a dozen teams who are better equipped to win.

Topping the group is vital or Germany look likely opponents in the last 16 which will see the St George crosses furled up for another four years.