WORLD CUP 2018: Portugal getting knocked out, Iceland qualifying; Here are all the permutations from Group A to Group D heading into the final group stage matches

Things are now getting interesting! The final group stage matches are set to take place, with a lot to play for. Many of the teams, considered favorites ahead of the World Cup 2018, are staring at a possibility of early exit.

On the other hand, the minnows and dark horses have provided 'a breath of fresh air' to the tournament with their giant-killing performances. While in some groups, the top two are already confirmed, the other groups have a lot of possibilities.

Let's take a look at all the possible scenarios which can take place in third group stage matches.

GROUP A

Russia and Uruguay are through following their success in the first two matches. The two teams meet in the final match of the group stage, and the top place is at stake. Currently, the host nation are on top thanks to their superior goal difference, but a win for Uruguay can change things around.

As for the other two teams, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, they have nothing but pride to play for. 

GROUP B

Now things are very interesting here. Portugal and Spain have four points each, and Iran are also right there with three points. There is a high possibility that either of Portugal or Spain may not qualify.

Portugal qualification: A draw for Portugal will confirm their place in the next round. If they lose to Iran, then they will have to hope Spain also loses to Morocco, that too by a bigger margin. Eg. If Portugal lose 1-0, then they will have to hope Spain loses 2-0 to Morocco.

Spain qualification: They are currently top of the group, and need just a draw to qualify. Their scenario is exactly the same as Portugal. A loss against Morocco would not end their tournament if Portugal lose to Iran by a similar or bigger margin. Eg. If Spain lose 1-0, they will still qualify should Portugal lose 2-0.

Iran qualification: With three points, they are the outsiders of the group, but sit with a strong possibility. If they beat Portugal, they go through. On the other hand, a draw would also be enough, as long as Spain loses to Morocco by two goals. Eg. If Iran draw, they still qualify is Spain loses 2-0

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GROUP C

France have already confirmed their qualification, and the contest is between Denmark and Australia. 

Australia qualification: They have no choice other than winning, and hoping the other result goes their way. If they win 1-0, and Denmark lose 1-0, Australia qualify, thanks to goals scored. 

If Australia win 1-0, and Denmark lose 2-1, then the goal difference, goals scored and head to head is equal, and it boils down to fair play.

Denmark qualification: A draw against France would confirm their place in the next round. They will automatically qualify if Australia fail to win. But in case Australia win, France will need to score more goals than what Australia score. Eg. If Australia win 2-0, Denmark will qualify even if they lose 2-3 to France

GROUP D

Now this is the most interesting group of the lot. Croatia are through, and it is improbable that they will be usurped as the group leaders. The fight for the second spot is close between Nigeria, Iceland and Argentina.

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Nigeria qualification: A win would cement their place in the next round. Even a draw would be enough against Argentina, as long as Iceland doesn't score 2 goals more than Nigeria, and beat Croatia by 2 goals. A loss would eliminate them. Eg. If Nigeria draw, they will qualify even if Iceland win 1-0

Iceland qualification: The tiniest nation in the tournament have to win to stand any chance of qualification. But even a win may not be enough. If the other match is drawn, then Iceland will need to beat Croatia by 3 goals. If Argentina win, then Iceland would need to win by the same margin to qualify. Eg. If Iceland beat Argentina 2-0, and Nigeria draw 0-0, then Iceland go through. If Argentina win 1-0, then Iceland can still go through if they win thier match 1-0.

Argentina qualification: Just like Iceland, a win is a must, and they should also hope Iceland fail to win their match against Croatia. If Iceland win, then Argentina will have to win by at least two goals more to better their goal difference. Eg. If Iceland win by 1-0, Argentina will need to win 2-0 to qualify