The countdown to the draw on Friday December 4 starts here but Russia will not be one of the teams contesting the World Cup finals.
In a major blow to eastern Europe, Guus Hiddink's highly-fancied charges crashed out in Slovenia on the away goals rule and finished the second leg with only nine mine. Ukraine's exit at the hands of Greece, who proved they had been under-estimated, only adds to the misery for the region.
Some, myself included, fancied Russia as potential dark horses in the finals, as I did in the last European Championship. They play a neat passing game and have some stellar talents. But it wasn't to be and what this means for Hiddink's future is anybody's guess.
Chelsea's players would love to have him back but Carlo Ancelotti is doing a great job. Sky Bet and Victor Chandler offer 12/1 against him replacing Rafa Benitez, which is not the worst wager in the world by any means.
Victor Chandler make Real Madrid the 5/2 favourites to be Guus Hiddink’s next club with Chelsea 6/1 shots.
On current form, it is impossible to ignore Spain's claims for the trophy. They look unstoppable as a 5-1 away annihilation of Austria proved and, at 9/2, they have to be advised as a stand-out bet.
Admittedly, they often flop on the biggest stage but they put that record behind them at the Euros and will be formidable opponents in South Africa.
Much could depend on the draw but it is a fact that nobody, even Brazil, will fancy meeting up with Vicente del Bosque's in-form team.
The picture will become clearer once we know the groups but France are a best-priced 18/1 with Blue Square after their controversial progress past Republic of Ireland. Unless they sack Raymond Domenech, leave them well alone on Wednesday's evidence.
