The 2018 World Cup is well underway, and while there are several games yet to be played, the competition is already taking shape. Russia's 3-1 win over Egypt on Tuesday marked the beginning of round two of the group stage, with each nation playing three games before the knockout stage commences.

Only the top-two ranked teams will move on to the round of 16. There are no draws to decide the matchups of the knockout like the Champions League. Instead, brackets have already been drawn up to decide who will face who. Here are our predictions forGroup A and Group B.

Group A and B standings

What are the brackets for the round of 16?

While it is unknown who will make the knockout stage, pre-defined brackets give us a clue of what to expect in the round of 16. It's simple: the winner of Group A will face the runner-up of Group B and the runner-up of Group A will lock horns with the winner of Group B

June 30: Group A winner vs Group B runner-up

July 1: Group B winner vs Group A runner-up

Who is competing for qualification and who is out?

Group A

It's not mathematically confirmed, but this is the end of the road for Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Mohamed Salah will be waving goodbye before he even got started as his nation lost 3-1 to Russia.

This means the North African side is six points behind the host. Uruguay plays Saudi Arabia later on Saturday and should pick up three points to also march into a six-point advantage. As a result, the race to finish first should be decided when Russia clashes with the South American giant.

Group B

Mathematically, this group is more open, but none can predict a team besides Spain and Portugal qualifying. While Iran sits at the top of the table, they are yet to play the two European giants. Morocco is dead-bottom after losing their opening tie and things could get worse if they are torn apart by Cristiano and Co.

Who will win the group and who'll finish as runner-up?

Group A

Our bet is on Russia. Their superior goal difference and support from the home crowd could help them get the better of Uruguay. Additional, the host might even just play for the draw should La Celeste fail to overturn the goal difference when they face Saudi Arabia.

Group B

This prediction is more difficult, as Portugal's 3-3 draw with Spain showed that they are not intimidated by the favorites. However, while La Roja is a well-round team, Fernando Santos' side depends on Cristiano Ronaldo. Should he fail to perform, Selecção das Quinas might slip up. For that reason, Spain will likely win the group.