The race for first place promises to be an enthralling tussle as Group E pits together three sides – Norway, Slovenia and Switzerland – in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking top 30.

An influential substitute in Spain's last-16 win over Portugal, Fernando Llorento tells FIFA.com why the opening loss to Switzerland was a blessing in disguise.

Vicente Del Bosque believes his side's opening defeat by Switzerland has been highly motivating as they seek to add to their recent success.

Switzerland set a defensive record in South Africa but managed only one goal at the other end, making it easy to work out why they are heading home early. 

Switzerland and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta says the nation were not good enough to progress to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup™.