Portugal and Croatia concluded the first half of their World Cup 2026 knockout match in Toronto without a goal. The score remained 0-0 at the break, despite Portugal demonstrating significant pressure and possession throughout the initial 45 minutes.

Portugal, who secured the runner-up position in Group K with one win from three games, dominated possession with 70 per cent and registered nine shots compared to Croatia‘s three. They also earned six corners, while Croatia had none. However, only one of Portugal‘s shots was on target, with four blocked and four off target, indicating a struggle to convert their dominance into a breakthrough.

First Half Action

The match saw Portugal‘s attack, featuring players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, attempting to break through Croatia‘s defence. Early in the game, Leão was involved in good work on the left wing, centring the ball to Bruno Fernandes, whose shot from near the penalty spot was blocked. João Cancelo also delivered a cross that nearly resulted in a redirection towards the net by either Ronaldo or Fernandes.

Croatia‘s defence remained resolute, with players like Pongracic making crucial interventions, including a dangerous header facing his own goal that resulted in a corner rather than an own goal. Despite Portugal‘s sustained pressure, Croatia managed to create some opportunities, with Martin Baturina finding himself in a running race with Ruben Dias at one point, though Pedro Neto intervened.

Towards the end of the first half, Rafael Leão had a chance, arriving to meet a cross at the back post but firing over the bar. Croatia‘s strategy involved drifting backwards to lure Portugal forward before attempting long passes, though some were flagged offside. The match was described as clean, with only seven fouls called, despite more incidents occurring on the pitch.

Tactical Observations and Player Performances

One tactical observation noted Portugal‘s lack of effective off-the-ball movement and basic football intelligence in movement, with Ronaldo‘s slow strolls and João Felix and Pedro Neto‘s struggles to stretch play being highlighted. Ronaldo, despite being the focal point of Portugal‘s attack, had not touched the ball in Croatia‘s box by half-time and was observed dropping deeper in search of possession, potentially hindering Rafael Leão.

Croatia‘s Luka Modrić, despite his age, demonstrated his continued influence, showing the ability to break with the ball, though sometimes lacking a precise pass to receive. Ante Budimir, the lone striker for Croatia, had limited touches in the first half before being replaced by Matanovic at the start of the second half. Matanovic immediately made an impact, winning a duel that led to a chance for Kovacic, whose shot was saved, resulting in a corner for Croatia.

The match is a knockout clash, with the winner set to face Spain in Dallas on July 6. Spain secured their spot by defeating Austria 3-0 earlier in the day.

The second half began with Portugal immediately making a surging run upfield, with Leão in a good position to shoot but opting to pass to Ronaldo, which was cut out. Kovacic also had a chance for Croatia early in the second half, with his shot hitting the side netting.

Source: theguardian.com

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Spain secured their place in the World Cup last 16 with a dominant performance against Austria in Los Angeles, marking their first knockout tie victory since the 2010 World Cup final. The match saw Mikel Oyarzabal score twice, bringing his tournament tally to four goals, while Pedro Porro also found the net. The win ensures Spain join Mexico in maintaining a clean sheet through their first four matches of the 2026 tournament.

The Spanish side gradually increased their pressure throughout the first half. After 36 minutes, Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring, sweeping home a low cross from Marc Cucurella from 12 yards. Despite an earlier disallowed goal where Cucurella’s effort was ruled out due to a foul on Austria keeper Alexander Schlager, Spain continued to press.

Schlager played a significant role in keeping Austria in the game during the first half, making a fine low save to deny Oyarzabal before Spain took the lead. He later produced a brilliant double save, tipping Alex Baena’s free-kick onto the crossbar and then blocking Lamine Yamal’s follow-up with his chest. However, Spain’s dominance continued after the restart.

Spain’s Second Half Control

Spain doubled their lead in the 66th minute after a period of patient build-up. Right-back Pedro Porro charged into the box to head home Alex Baena’s cross. The victory was sealed when Cucurella and Oyarzabal combined again with a minute remaining, with Cucurella delivering a through-ball for Oyarzabal to slide in his fourth goal of the tournament.

Unai Simon maintained his fourth successive clean sheet, as Austria rarely posed a significant threat. Austria, playing in their first World Cup knockout fixture since 1954, had one notable chance when substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed over with his first touch. However, they were unable to convert any opportunities.

The team’s departure from their Chattanooga base for Los Angeles and potentially Dallas follows a period of preparation. Midfielder Fabián Ruiz, who has been working to regain his form after injury, expressed confidence in the team’s internal unity despite external doubts. He noted that while things may not always go as desired, the team is dedicated to improvement.

Squad Depth and Midfield Dynamics

The opening of the tournament for Spain was marked by concerns over the fitness of Lamine Yamal, who had been sidelined since April. Fabián Ruiz, who missed much of the season due to injury, stated, “It has been hard to get my pace and rhythm back, but I am 100% now.” He added that he feels in good form after playing several games for Paris Saint-Germain at a high level.

The composition of Spain’s midfield has been a topic of discussion, particularly with Pedri and Rodri starting every game. Fabián Ruiz started the opener against Cape Verde, with Dani Olmo and Mikel Merino featuring in subsequent matches. Fabián Ruiz emphasised the collective strength of the team, stating, “It’s not important who plays, it’s important that we support each other.” He believes the team’s core idea remains consistent regardless of individual selections.

The team’s leadership has also seen changes since the European Championship, where Álvaro Morata, Dani Carvajal, and Rodri were key figures. Currently, Rodri serves as the first captain, alongside experienced players like Unai Simón, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Aymeric Laporte. Fabián Ruiz, despite his reserved nature, contributes to the team by supporting his teammates, especially the younger players, and is ready to assist the team on or off the pitch.

The team’s strong performance in Los Angeles reflects their collective effort and preparation, as they continue their journey in the World Cup.

Source: bbc.com

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Concerns about coaching and club resources

An inquest into the death of Maddy Cusack, a former Sheffield United footballer, has heard testimony from her mother, Deborah Cusack, who described the women’s team head coach, Jonathan Morgan, as her daughter’s “nemesis.” Deborah Cusack stated that if Morgan had not been employed, her daughter would still be alive. Morgan, who joined the club in February 2023, is representing himself in the inquest at Chesterfield Coroner’s Court.

Deborah Cusack alleged that Morgan made comments about her daughter’s weight and relationship, which she believed were intended to “cut her down to size” and assert control. She clarified that she was not blaming Morgan for her daughter’s actions but for how he made her feel. Maddy Cusack had previously played under Morgan at Leicester City and was reportedly “so happy to leave” in 2019 to join Sheffield United, only to be “dismayed” when he joined the Blades in February 2023.

The court heard that Morgan allegedly called Maddy “bottom heavy” after joining the club, which prompted her to try to become “fitter and thinner” through changes to her eating habits and additional runs after training. Deborah Cusack maintained that her daughter had no prior mental health issues, describing her as a “bright, bubbly confident girl.”

Francesca Carr, who served as the women’s team physio for Sheffield United between 2021 and 2024, testified that the club lacked sufficient resources to support its women’s team players during the transition to full-time training in the summer of 2023. Carr described the transition as “rushed” and noted that staff often performed duties beyond their designated roles, such as preparing meals for the team. She also mentioned that players might not have known where to seek help from the club’s human resources team due to a change in training venue.

Carr expressed concerns about the mental wellbeing of several squad members, stating that some players caused her more worry than Cusack. She also recalled Cusack expressing anxieties about her housing situation and her girlfriend being distant. Carr recounted an incident where Cusack was “heartbroken” after mistakenly going to the wrong training ground, describing her reaction as “excessive” and not normal.

Relationship with coach and club environment

Grace Riglar, Maddy Cusack’s girlfriend and a former Sheffield United player, told the inquest that Cusack was anxious about Morgan joining the club due to her past experiences with him at Leicester City. Riglar recalled an instance where Morgan allegedly called Cusack a “psycho” from the sideline during a match, which made Cusack uncomfortable. Riglar also stated that Cusack felt Morgan’s decision to not include her in the starting line-up for matches was a “personal attack” and that he was “playing mind games” with her.

Riglar further testified that Morgan made comments about Cusack’s relationship, including calling Riglar “Mrs Cusack” in front of teammates, which made Cusack uncomfortable as she preferred to keep her relationship professional and separate from football. Riglar also corroborated claims that Morgan made a comment about Cusack’s weight, leading Cusack to alter her eating and exercise routines, despite already being one of the team’s fittest players.

Sophie Barker, Cusack’s former captain at Sheffield United and roommate, linked Cusack’s decline to worries about affording her house and Riglar’s move to play for Lewes. Barker stated that Cusack was concerned about Riglar leaving her and about her financial ability to maintain her home if she stopped playing football. When questioned by Morgan, Barker said she had not witnessed him exhibit negative behaviours towards Cusack, describing his actions as typical managerial conduct.

The inquest also heard about the “shambolic” contract process for Cusack’s full-time contract with Sheffield United in June 2023. Deborah Cusack stated that her daughter was “relieved but surprised” by the offer, but also “anxious” about balancing her roles, as her combined salary was less than before. She also mentioned that players sidelined by Morgan would communicate via text messages to support each other.

Eoin Doyle, Cusack’s line manager in Sheffield United‘s marketing department, described Cusack as anxious upon Morgan’s arrival. Doyle recalled a conversation with Cusack in August 2023 where she discussed various concerns, including her housing, career progression, and personal matters. He noted that she was not the “Maddy I knew” and appeared “sunken into herself.” Doyle also mentioned that Morgan referred to Cusack as “love sick” during a conversation about their shared concerns for her, which Doyle considered “ill-judged.”

The inquest heard that Cusack’s medical records from her time at Sheffield United had been lost. Dr. Subhashis Basu, the club’s doctor, stated that he did not immediately report the data loss to the coronial investigation but did raise it eventually. The inquest continues with further testimony scheduled from club staff members and Stephen Bettis, the chief executive of Sheffield United, on July 8.

Source: bbc.com

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England’s World Cup Journey Continues

England secured a spot in the World Cup 2026 last 16 after a late victory against DR Congo, with captain Harry Kane scoring two crucial goals. The win means England will now face Mexico in Mexico City at the Estadio Azteca. This match will present unique challenges due to the altitude and humidity.

The match against DR Congo saw England facing potential elimination until Kane’s intervention. Head coach Thomas Tuchel, whose position might have been in question had England lost, saw his team overcome a difficult period. The victory, however, did not fully address some of the team’s ongoing issues that have been apparent throughout the campaign, including selection and performance concerns.

The match was widely watched, with 16.3 million viewers tuning in on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, making it the most-watched moment on the BBC this year. The average viewership for the game was 14 million. This significant audience engagement highlights the national interest in England’s World Cup progression.

Key Players and Persistent Issues

Kane and Jude Bellingham have been central to England’s performance in the World Cup, consistently contributing goals and leadership. Both players scored in group stage victories against Croatia and Panama, and were pivotal in the win over DR Congo. While their contributions have been vital, there is a sentiment that other players need to step up and share the responsibility.

Anthony Gordon made a notable impact as a substitute against DR Congo, playing a role in both goals. In contrast, players like Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke had a less effective outing. Concerns also persist regarding Bukayo Saka’s fitness, as he manages an Achilles problem, with Tuchel seemingly cautious about over-exerting him.

The right-back position continues to be a challenge for England, with injuries and inconsistent form affecting selections. Declan Rice, typically a key midfielder, was seen playing at right-back during the latter stages of the match against DR Congo, which some observers, including former England captain Alan Shearer, found to be a sign of confusion. Shearer acknowledged Rice’s contribution to the equaliser from that position but questioned the long-term viability of this choice given Rice’s importance in midfield.

Former England defender Micah Richards also expressed reservations about Rice at right-back, suggesting that his energy is more needed in central midfield, especially for the upcoming match against Mexico at altitude. Richards proposed Ezri Konsa at right-back, with John Stones alongside Marc Guehi, to achieve better team balance. Stones was not included in the starting lineup against DR Congo after featuring in the win against Croatia.

Another area of concern is the team’s creative output. The absence of natural creators like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden from the squad has been a talking point, particularly after a goalless draw against Ghana. While Palmer and Foden reportedly had less impactful club seasons, some argue that other players like Morgan Gibbs-White or Alex Scott, who were also overlooked, could have provided more creative options.

Striking Options and Future Challenges

The reliance on Kane also brings into focus the depth of England’s striking options. While Kane has been in excellent form, questions have been raised about Tuchel’s trust in other forwards like Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney. Toney, who plays in the Saudi Pro League, was a surprise inclusion in the squad, having made only a brief appearance for the national side in June 2025.

In the four matches played so far, Toney has not featured, and Watkins has only played a brief six minutes as a substitute against Panama. During the stalemate against Ghana and when chasing the game against DR Congo, neither player was brought on, with Tuchel opting for other attacking changes. This suggests that Tuchel is heavily dependent on Kane’s fitness and form as England progresses in the tournament.

The upcoming match against Mexico in Mexico City will be a significant test. The altitude of the location is expected to impact player fatigue and the ball’s trajectory, as noted by performance specialist James Barber. Barber explained that reduced oxygen at altitude leads to quicker fatigue and impaired sprinting ability, with players experiencing breathlessness and elevated heart rates. The ball is also expected to travel further due to less air resistance.

Anthony Gordon expressed excitement about facing Mexico at the Azteca, describing it as a potentially once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere. He praised Kane’s consistency and leadership, stating that Kane is an inspiration to the team. The match on Sunday will be England’s first World Cup game at the Estadio Azteca since 1986, when they defeated Paraguay in the round of 16.

Source: bbc.com

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England secured a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32, largely due to two late goals from captain Harry Kane. The match, played under the roof of a stadium in Atlanta, saw England come from behind after DR Congo had taken the lead.

Thomas Tuchel, England’s head coach, celebrated on the pitch following Kane’s decisive goals, which averted what was described as a potential embarrassment for the team. The win ensures England’s progression to the last 16 of the tournament.

Kane’s Impact and Team Performance

Kane’s first goal, a powerful header, levelled the score against goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who had made several saves throughout the match. With four minutes remaining, Kane received a pass from substitute Anthony Gordon, shifted the ball past a defender, and scored with a right-foot strike.

Gordon, a winger, made a significant impact after coming on as a substitute, contributing to both of Kane’s goals. His performance has reportedly given Tuchel considerations for the starting lineup in the next match.

Despite the victory, some England players faced scrutiny for their performances. Djed Spence, playing at right-back, reportedly struggled and was replaced in the 71st minute. Jordan Pickford, the goalkeeper, was noted for potentially being able to do better on DR Congo’s opening goal. Other players like Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford also had challenging outings.

Jude Bellingham was highlighted as England’s most consistent attacking threat, creating chances and making good runs, though he was unable to score. Declan Rice, returning from a calf injury, moved to right-back after Spence’s substitution and reportedly performed better in that role.

Kane’s individual statistics from the match are notable. He now has five goals in this World Cup, placing him among the leading scorers alongside players like Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi. Tuchel commented on the competitive nature of these top forwards, describing them as “sharks.”

The England captain has moved above Pele to reach joint sixth on the all-time World Cup scorers list. He also now has 84 goals for England, which places him level with Ferenc Puskas on the all-time international scorers list. Kane is the first England player to score twice in a World Cup knockout stage match since Gary Lineker in 1990, and he now has five knockout stage goals in the World Cup, with only Lineker having more for England.

This season, Kane has scored goals in games for club and country, with 11 for England and 61 for Bayern Munich. Teammates like Bellingham and Gordon praised Kane’s consistency, leadership, and work ethic, with Gordon noting that Kane’s season has only been surpassed by Messi.

Looking Ahead to Mexico City

England’s next challenge is against co-hosts Mexico in the last 16, to be played at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. This venue presents a significant task for England, as Mexico has a strong home record, having lost only two of their past 89 competitive games there.

The Azteca Stadium has seen Mexico achieve 70 wins and remain unbeaten in 10 World Cup matches. England’s previous World Cup memories at the stadium include their 1986 quarter-final defeat by Argentina. The team will also face the challenge of playing at an altitude of over 7,000 feet, after previous matches in Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, and New York New Jersey Stadium.

The upcoming match is anticipated to be played in a hostile environment with passionate local support, where England will likely rely heavily on Kane’s continued performance.

Source: bbc.com

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Mexico secured a place in the World Cup last 16, defeating Ecuador 2-0 in a match that saw first-half goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. The game, held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms in the area. Despite the delay, the co-hosts delivered a strong performance, marking their first knockout stage victory in the tournament since 1986.

The match began with an intense display from Mexico, creating four chances within the initial 10 minutes. Ecuador, in contrast, struggled to match the home side’s intensity, with John Yeboah hitting the woodwork being their closest early opportunity. The fervent atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca seemed to fuel Mexico‘s aggressive start, which was described as one of their strongest openings to a World Cup game in terms of chances created since 1966.

First Half Dominance and Hydration Controversy

The opening goal for Mexico came when Colombia-born winger Julian Quinones broke free on the left wing, cut inside, and sent a shot past Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez. This was Quinones‘ third goal of the tournament. Shortly after, Quinones turned provider, assisting Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, who capitalised on a mistake by Ecuador centre-back Joel Ordonez to score into the top corner, extending Mexico‘s lead.

During the first half, a controversial hydration break occurred in the 25th minute. This left fans puzzled, as FIFA had previously announced that no hydration breaks would take place during the match, citing the 14-degree temperature and earlier rain. FIFA had stated in December that three-minute breaks would be implemented midway through each half of the World Cup for player welfare, a decision that also allows broadcasters to air additional commercials.

Despite the controversy, Mexico maintained its advantage. Javier Aguirre‘s side doubled its lead less than 10 minutes after the first goal, with Jimenez combining with Quinones before finding the net. The co-hosts’ strong offensive start set the tone for the rest of the game.

Second Half Control and Late Red Card

After half-time, Ecuador, managed by Sebastian Beccacece, showed considerable improvement. However, their efforts to reduce the deficit were largely unsuccessful, with Gonzalo Plata‘s flick wide being their closest attempt. Mexico adopted a more controlled approach in the second half, defending for much of the period but comfortably keeping Ecuador from creating clear-cut chances. Mexico maintained its record of not conceding a goal in this year’s tournament.

Towards the end of the match, Ecuador‘s frustration became evident. In stoppage time, defender Piero Hincapie received a red card for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent. He became the second player in the tournament, after Paraguay‘s Miguel Almiron, to be sent off for this specific action. This incident added a sour note to what was already a disappointing outing for Ecuador.

The final statistics showed Mexico with 43% possession compared to Ecuador‘s 57%, but Mexico had more shots (15 to 7) and shots on target (3 to 1). Mexico‘s expected goals (xG) were 1.02, while Ecuador‘s were 0.73. Mexico will now have the advantage of playing in Mexico City again in the next round, where they will face either England or DR Congo on Sunday evening.

Source: bbc.co.uk

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France advances to last 16 with strong performance

France secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in the World Cup round of 32, maintaining a perfect record of four wins from four matches. This win sets up a last-16 encounter with Paraguay. The match, played in scorching temperatures in New Jersey, saw Kylian Mbappe net two goals, making him the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup knockout matches.

Les Bleus wasted no time in pressuring their opponents. Early in the match, an offside call denied Mbappe an opener in the 20th minute. He later struck the post after receiving a low cross from Jules Kounde. Shortly after, Michael Olise hit the upright with a scissor kick from inside the penalty area, with Ousmane Dembele sending the rebound wide.

Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom made several saves, but was unable to stop Mbappe just before half-time. Mbappe received a slide-rule pass from Dembele, used a stepover to wrong-foot Viktor Gyokeres, and then fired the ball into the far corner. Despite Sweden having an opportunity to equalise immediately, Elliot Stroud shot over the bar from 12 yards out.

Mbappe and Barcola seal victory

Eight minutes into the second half, Bradley Barcola extended France’s lead. He ran onto a pass from Olise and struck the ball into the near post. Dembele forced another save from Widell Zetterstrom with a curling shot, and Olise was also denied in a one-on-one situation.

Mbappe scored his second goal in the 74th minute, again connecting with a pass from Olise and curling the ball past Widell Zetterstrom. This goal brought his tally to 10 knockout stage goals in the World Cup, and he now shares the lead in the Golden Boot race for this tournament with Lionel Messi, both having scored six goals.

Olise’s performance was notable, providing two assists and showcasing his skill throughout the match. He consistently sought the ball, manipulating it to create dangerous opportunities for France. His passing between the Swedish centre-half and full-back for Barcola’s goal was particularly effective.

Towards the end of the match, Gyokeres had a chance for a late consolation goal but was denied by France keeper Mike Maignan. France’s victory ensures their progression to the next stage of the tournament.

Looking ahead to the next round

The match was played in a hot environment in East Rutherford, where Sweden initially showed a competitive spirit and a clear game plan. They attempted counterattacks, utilising players like Anthony Elanga and Viktor Gyokeres, who looked to link up with Alexander Isak. However, Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba’s defensive efforts prevented Isak’s shots from troubling Mike Maignan.

Sweden’s compact defending initially posed a challenge for France, who resorted to long-range efforts from Mbappe out of frustration. However, a strong drive from Adrian Rabiot, which Jacob Widell Zetterstrom managed to turn around the post, seemed to ignite France’s attack. Following this, France created a series of opportunities, eventually breaking through Sweden’s defence.

Paraguay, who defeated Germany on penalties, will be France’s next opponent. The last-16 tie is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia on Saturday, 4 July.

Source: bbc.co.uk

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Morocco secured a dramatic victory over the Netherlands in a penalty shootout in Monterrey, advancing to the World Cup round of 16. The match, which ended 1-1 after extra time, saw Morocco come from behind to win the shootout 3-2, setting up a clash with Canada in Houston.

The game was a hard-fought contest, with Morocco dominating for significant periods. Despite their control, they were repeatedly denied by the impressive goalkeeping of Bart Verbruggen and the woodwork. The Dutch, however, broke the deadlock with a goal from Cody Gakpo 18 minutes from full-time, following a rapid counter-attack.

Gakpo, who had recently announced a personal loss, chose to remain with the squad and started for the Netherlands. Coach Ronald Koeman opted for a five-man defensive line, a tactical shift not seen in his previous 32 matches. This formation drew criticism, but Koeman defended his decision, stating he would implement the same strategy again if faced with a similar situation, believing it limited a stronger opponent.

The opening phases of the match were marked by intense physical play, including notable individual battles between Ismail Saibari and Jan Paul van Hecke, as well as Brian Brobbey and Chadi Riad. Both teams created scoring opportunities, with Neil El Aynaoui and Achraf Hakimi testing Verbruggen, while Micky van de Ven had a long-range attempt for the Netherlands.

After the half-time interval, Morocco increased their pressure, with Hakimi hitting the crossbar. Despite Morocco’s sustained offensive efforts, it was the Netherlands who scored first through Gakpo’s powerful strike. This goal appeared to be enough for the Dutch until the final moments of added time.

In a dramatic turn, Issa Diop headed home a curling cross from Chemsdine Taldi in stoppage time, levelling the score and forcing the match into extra time. As extra time began, Verbruggen made a crucial save against Soufiane Rahimi, preventing Morocco from taking the lead.

With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the game proceeded to a penalty shootout. Teun Koopmeiners gave the Netherlands an early advantage, but El Aynaoui then struck the crossbar for Morocco. The shootout saw several missed opportunities, including Justin Kluivert hitting the post and Quinten Timber sending his effort wide for the Dutch.

Hakimi also missed for Morocco, hitting the post. However, Crysencio Summerville’s shot for the Netherlands was saved by Yassine Bounou, who moved to his right before the kick. This set the stage for Ismail Saibari, who successfully converted his penalty, sending Verbruggen the wrong way and securing the 3-2 victory for Morocco.

Koeman’s Tactical Decisions Under Scrutiny

Following the defeat, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman addressed his future, stating he would reflect on his three-and-a-half-year tenure, which marks his second spell in charge of the national team. He acknowledged the disappointment but indicated he had not yet resigned, planning to reach a conclusion by the following morning.

Koeman’s decision to employ a five-man defensive line was a major talking point. He defended his strategy, arguing that it was a necessary approach against a strong Moroccan side. He asserted that this formation helped limit the opposition more effectively compared to previous matches against teams like Sweden and Tunisia.

The Morocco head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, admitted surprise at the Netherlands’ defensive setup. He noted that it was an unusual tactic for them and required his team to adapt. Ouahbi interpreted this defensive posture as a sign of respect from the Dutch side.

Morocco’s victory means they will now face Canada in the next round. There is growing anticipation that they could replicate or even surpass their performance from four years ago, when they reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in Qatar. Ouahbi emphasised the importance of on-field performance, stating that the World Cup in Qatar had changed the mentality of his team.

The match was described as an incredible game, with both teams displaying high standards of play. The outcome was particularly tough for the Dutch players, who were visibly distraught after the penalty shootout. In contrast, the Moroccan team and their fans celebrated with immense joy, having overcome a strong opponent to reach the last 16.

The Netherlands, along with Germany and Japan, were eliminated from the tournament on the same day, marking a dramatic series of results. Morocco’s win against the Netherlands was considered by some observers to be a deserved outcome, given their overall performance and ability to push the Dutch team back throughout the game. The goal by Cody Gakpo was against the run of play, and Morocco’s late equaliser was seen as fully merited.

The next match for Morocco will be against Canada in Houston on Saturday at 18:00 BST.

Source: bbc.com

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Canada achieves historic knockout stage berth

Canada made history by securing their first-ever victory in a men’s World Cup knockout match, defeating South Africa 1-0. The winning goal came in stoppage time during the second half, with Stephen Eustaquio delivering a crucial low strike from the edge of the penalty area. This win marks a significant milestone for the co-hosts, who had not previously won a World Cup game until this tournament.

The match itself was described as scrappy, with limited clear-cut chances for either side. Eustaquio’s goal was a moment of quality in an otherwise slow-paced encounter. Following the final whistle, Canada’s coach, Jesse Marsch, addressed his players on the field, hailing them as “Canadian heroes” and emphasising the impact of their achievement on the future of the sport in the country.

This victory follows Canada’s earlier success in the tournament, where they defeated Qatar 6-0. Their progression to the last 16 means they will now face either Morocco or the Netherlands. The match against South Africa was the only fixture played on Sunday, a scheduling decision made to allow for adequate rest between group stage games and the knockout rounds.

Marsch praises team’s character and future impact

Coach Jesse Marsch was visibly emotional and proud of his team’s performance, particularly highlighting their resilience and adherence to their game plan. In a team huddle immediately after the final whistle, Marsch reiterated to his players that they are “Canadian heroes” and that their success will inspire future generations of Canadian athletes in the sport.

South Africa, who had finished second in Group A, struggled to make an impact in the game, managing only one shot on target. They appeared content to play for extra time before Eustaquio’s late goal decided the contest. Earlier in the match, Canada’s Moise Bombito had a header cleared off the line, and there was a penalty appeal for a challenge on Richie Laryea by Khuliso Mudau, which incensed Marsch.

Despite losing home advantage for this match, having played their group stage games in their home country, Canada delivered a memorable performance for their supporters. The return of Alphonso Davies, who had missed group matches due to a hamstring injury, provided a significant boost to the squad, with his quality immediately evident on the field.

Upcoming knockout stage fixtures and tournament dynamics

The World Cup now moves into a more intense phase with several prominent matches scheduled. Monday’s fixtures include Brazil against Japan, followed by Germany facing Paraguay. The day concludes with a clash between the Netherlands and Morocco. These games are part of the first round of 32 in this World Cup format, offering underdogs a direct opportunity for an upset.

The tournament bracket has been designed to prevent the top four seeds – France, Spain, Argentina, and England – from meeting until the semi-finals, assuming they won their respective groups. However, the top half of the draw appears to be more challenging, featuring strong European teams like the Netherlands, Germany, and Portugal, alongside co-hosts the United States.

The bottom half of the draw, while containing Argentina and Brazil, is noted for having fewer serious contenders overall. England’s potential path to the final could involve challenging matches against Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, presenting a physically demanding schedule. The upcoming matches are expected to intensify the competition as teams vie for a spot in the later stages of the World Cup.

The match schedule for Monday includes:

• Brazil v Japan (1pm ET; 6pm BST)
• Germany v Paraguay (4:30pm ET; 9:30pm BST)
• Netherlands v Morocco (9pm ET; 2am BST)

Source: nytimes.com

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DR Congo’s comeback victory

The Democratic Republic of Congo has advanced to the World Cup last 32 for the first time in its history, securing a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. This win means they will now face England in the next stage of the tournament. The match saw a dramatic turnaround after Uzbekistan initially took the lead.

Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov opened the scoring in the 10th minute, capitalising on a defensive error involving Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Shomurodov chipped the ball over the goalkeeper, giving Uzbekistan an early advantage. Despite this, DR Congo’s Nathanaël Mbuku had an equaliser disallowed after a VAR review, which deemed he had fouled an Uzbekistan defender in the build-up.

The second half saw a revitalised DR Congo. The turning point came when Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa was fouled inside the box by Manchester City’s Abdukodir Khusanov. Wissa then converted the penalty, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the score. This goal ignited the Congolese fans in the Atlanta Stadium.

Second-half surge and Wissa’s brace

Following Wissa’s equaliser, Fiston Mayele put DR Congo ahead. He connected with a deflected shot from Meschack Elia, prodding the ball past Uzbekistan’s goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov from close range. This goal sent the predominantly Congolese crowd into a frenzy, marking a significant moment in the match.

Wissa then sealed the victory in stoppage time, curling a shot from the edge of the box into the far corner. This goal completed his brace and secured DR Congo’s progression to the knockout stages. The team’s performance in the second half demonstrated a strong desire to secure the necessary points for advancement.

The victory ensures DR Congo finishes third in Group K. Their next challenge will be against England in Atlanta, with the match scheduled for Wednesday at 17:00 BST. This marks a historic achievement for the nation, participating in their first World Cup since 1974 when they competed as Zaire.

Uzbekistan’s World Cup journey concludes

Uzbekistan, despite their initial lead, could not maintain their advantage. Their captain and all-time leading goalscorer, Shomurodov, showed his quality with the opening goal, but it was not enough to secure a win. The team had made four changes to their starting XI following a previous 5-0 defeat to Portugal, bringing in Khojiakbar Alijonov, Jakhongir Urozov, Akmal Mozgovoy, and Dostonbek Khamdamov.

Uzbekistan’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stage were slim entering the match, requiring a significant goal difference swing. Their World Cup journey, their first appearance in the tournament, concludes at the group stage. The team’s efforts were notable, particularly their attacking flair in the first half, but they ultimately fell short against a determined DR Congo side.

The match also saw several substitutions, with Uzbekistan bringing on Aziz G’aniev for Dostonbek Khamdamov and Odiljon Khamrobekov for Otabek Shukurov around the hour mark. DR Congo also made changes, introducing Ngal’ayel Mukau, Théo Bongonda, and Meschack Elia for Samuel Moutoussamy, Brian Cipenga, and Nathanaël Mbuku.

The Leopards will now prepare for their last-32 clash against England, which will take place in Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.

Source: bbc.com

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