AND THE 2022 CUP IS ABOUT TO MOVE STATESIDE:

Few predicted the U.S. would finish second to Germany -- ahead of Portugal and Ghana -- in the tournament's toughest group. But the unexpected has become routine in Brazil, especially for teams from North and Central America.

An unprecedented three countries from the region, usually overlooked when the world gathers every four years to play soccer, have now reached the round of 16. Mexico and Costa Rica qualified previously.

At the same time, Portugal isn't the only traditional European power to wilt in the heat and humidity. England, Italy and defending champion Spain have all gone home.

Follow @brothersjudd