To get World Cup Today in your inbox each match day, sign up here.
Yesterday’s highlights
– England qualified for the round of 16 with a 6-1 rout of Panama. Video highlights.
– Japan and Senegal played to a 2-2 draw. Video highlights.
– Colombia were electric in a 3-0 victory that eliminated Poland. Video highlights.
What to watch for today
Saudi Arabia v. Egypt | Group A
With both of these squads already eliminated, the spotlight is on how Mo Salah finishes his World Cup. Salah clearly wasn’t match fit and nervous about aggravating his shoulder injury against Russia. Now, he has been used as a political photo-op by Chechnyan leader Ramzan Kadyrov; a situation which has Salah apparently considering retiring from the national team. It’s safe to say that Salah is hoping to grab a couple goals, put the World Cup behind him, and prepare for next season.
Uruguay v. Russia | Group A
A head-to-head battle for the top spot in Group A. Russia sit in first on goal difference, meaning Uruguay must win to overtake them. The hosts have been the surprise of the tournament so far, but their performance against Uruguay will be a true marker of their quality. The likeliest scenario is one of these teams face off against Spain, while the other faces Portugal, but there is a chance that Iran could come out of Group B as well. That will be determined later on in the day, but first, Russia will want to continue their rhythm while Uruguay need to find theirs.
Iran v. Portugal | Group B
Iran enter this match with a simple scenario: win and they advance. Portugal are certainly favorites (and only need a draw to be certain to go through), but Ronaldo’s excellence has papered over the cracks so far, giving Portugal four points without a convincing team performance. However, relying on Cristiano as a match winner is a pretty difficult strategy to beat. Iran have only allowed one goal in two matches and another disciplined defensive performance would give them a good chance at ending Ronaldo’s remarkable start to the tournament.
Spain v. Morocco | Group B
Spain are on top of Group B on four points, but still need a result to guarantee they progress. A loss and an Iran win creates a potential scenario that could see them eliminated and Portugal advance as runners-up. Of course that outcome relies on two shocks, but it’s difficult to rule anything out at this World Cup. Morocco have been thoroughly entertaining, yet are already knocked out without scoring a goal. They can still have a massive impact on the tournament however, and Spain should next expect a casual victory.