Group H could remain the most open, exciting and lively group going into the final games of the first round. Belgium scrapped through with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Algeria in their opener as Russia and South Korea shared the spoils.

Tonight, Belgium can progress to the next round by beating Russia. But Fabio Capello’s men know a defeat will leave a bitter final game experience. 

However, they can afford to lose and still have their fate in their hands in the final game against Algeria. The North African Desert Foxes are the only side who will be eliminated should they lose.

They are coming up against a disciplined South Korean side. This will be a more difficult game for Algeria than the opening fixture against Belgium. 

They will need the Allah that went to sleep on them in the second half of the Belgium fixture to stay awake for 90 minutes and not just 45, to beat South Korea. Short of this, the best will be a draw. This game smells a draw already.

Belgium, though, will have their work cut out. Against a European side, they will not face much difficulty dispatching Russia. A comfortable win for the Red Devils and a place in the last 16.

The highlight of the evening will come in the midnight kickoff. After the opening 4-0 drabbing in the hands of Germany, Portugal will be trying to turn the tables, but like England and Spain, this World Cup has no room for European ‘giants’ who lose their openers.

Cristiano Ronaldo should not be in this WC. He is injured but the selfishness and egoistic desire to impress has forced him to wear ice on his knee every other game.

Against Germany, he was a total shadow. Perhaps without him Portugal would have done better channeling their energy and chances on a team rather than a ‘super individual.’

USA have this game to lose. But they won’t.