Group K

Group K carries one of the tournament's biggest storylines: at 41, this is almost certainly Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup. Portugal (UEFA) have far more than nostalgia, though-their attacking depth makes them clear favourites to top the group. Colombia (CONMEBOL) are a high-quality second seed, balanced and physical with James Rodríguez pulling the strings; the Portugal–Colombia meeting could be one of the best pure-football games of the first round.

The lower seeds arrive on historic high notes. Uzbekistan (AFC) reach the World Cup for the first time ever after years of near-misses, while DR Congo (CAF) return to the finals for the first time since 1974, having come through the intercontinental playoff. Both are organised and dangerous on their day, but face a steep step up in class against the top two.

How to predict it: Portugal and Colombia are the strong picks to advance, and the order between them is closer than the seedings suggest-back Colombia to win the group if you want a differentiator. For third place, either Uzbekistan or DR Congo could nick a result, but the gap to the top two means a Group K third-placed side may finish light on points. Weigh that against closer groups before committing one of your eight best-thirds slots here.

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