Football World Championship: Favorites and surprises
After completion of the group stage with 72 matches, the knockout phase of the largest World Championship ever with 48 teams is set. All pre-tournament favorites such as France, Spain, England, and Argentina advanced, as did surprisingly some underdogs. Argentina dominated the group with Lionel Messi, who continues to break records. France is considered the favorite for the title, while Argentina has the easiest path through the knockout round. Surprise teams such as Cape Verde in their first World Cup appearance have also qualified.