Ghana clinched a place in the last 16 of the World Cup after beating the United States 2-1 in a Group E match, while the Australians wrapped up their place in their first appearance in 32 years as they drew 2-2 with 1998 semi-finalists Croatia in Group F.

Their success saw both Croatia and Euro 2004 semi-finalists Czech Republic, who lost 2-0 to Italy earlier, exit with the Czechs probably seeing the end of the stellar international careers of Pavel Nedved and Karel Poborsky.

Five-time champions Brazil topped Group F as they came from behind to beat Asian champions Japan 4-1 with L. Ronaldo scoring twice to move level with all-time record World Cup goalscorer Gerd Muller on 14.

As a result, Ghana will take on Brazil while Italy will play against Australia in the knockout round.