FOOTBALL – As the controversy continues both on and off the field in Qatar, the football moves forward through the group stages. Half the teams have now played two of their 3 games in the group stages.
Group A is headed by the Netherlands and Ecuador. Both have 4 points and a goal difference of 2. On Tuesday, the final games of group A feature Ecuador v Senegal, and Netherlands v Qatar who are bottom of the table.
In Group B, England are top on 4 points, with Iran one point behind in second place. Also on Tuesday Iran v USA, and England v Wales. Wales hang on by a thread, and are currently bottom of the table.
Group C – Poland took on Saudi Arabia yesterday, and won 2-0 putting them in top place. After a disappointing start to their World Cup Campaign, Argentina also won their game 2-0 against Mexico which moved them up to 2nd place. However, it took over an hour of play before Messi scored Argentina´s opener with an amazing strike 25 yards out straight through the middle of the Mexican defenders, and into the bottom corner of the net. The second goal came 3 minutes before the 90. Once again, Messi was involved as he passed the ball to Enzo Fernández who curled the ball into the top corner.
Thirty-five year old Messi, played in his 21st FIFA World Cup contest. This equals the record set by Maradona for most World Cup games played by an Argentine player.
However, this could all change on Wednesday from 8.00 pm when Poland face Argentina. At the same time, Saudi Arabia play against Mexico.
In Group D, France are clear leaders on 6 points having won both their games. Perhaps a little surprisingly, Australia are in second place. Denmark and Tunisia both only have one .point. On Wednesday at 4.00 pm, Tunisia play against France, and Australia take on Denmark.
The group stages continue
Groups E, F, G, and H have yet to play their second matches. This begins today. At 11.00 am Japan play against Costa Rica. At 2.00 pm Belgium take on Morocco. Then at 5.00 pm it is Croatia v Canada, and finally at 8.00 pm it is Spain’s turn as they play against Germany.
The group stages will be decided by December 2nd. At this time, the top two from each group will progress to the final 16. To find out how and where to watch the matches, click here.
