Day 6 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup has ended, and every team has played their opening game, with Russia and Egypt kicking off the second round of group stage matches on Tuesday afternoon.
Russia continued their goal-scoring blitz in a rainy game and edged out Egypt 3-1 to temporarily secure the sole lead of Group A's table. Egyptian star Mo Salah, who returned from a dislocated shoulder injury, could only provide a penalty kick goal in the 73rd minute. If Group A opponent Uruguay either defeats or draws with Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, Russia would be the first team to qualify for the knockout stage and Egypt would be eliminated.
Group H, which played its opening matches Tuesday, proved unpredictable for viewers. Japan defeated 10-man Colombia, 2-1, marking the first time the nation beat a South American team in the tournament. The Asian side had previously lost 4-1 to Colombia in the 2014 edition. Later, Senegal toppled Poland, 2-1, clinching the first win by an African nation at this year's World Cup.
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In other group roundups, Iran has taken the surprising lead in Group B after the 3-3 thriller between Portugal and Spain left them with one point apiece. Group C has both France and Denmark leading, while Croatia and Serbia have the sole lead of Group D and E respectively.
Sweden and Mexico currently sit atop Group F's table whereas both Belgium and England, as anticipated, are on top of Group G.
With every team having had their chance to shine, here are some interesting World Cup tidbits:
Stay tuned for more action as the upcoming group games promise a treat for fans, such as when Argentina plays Croatia on Thursday, June 21, Germany faces Sweden on Saturday, June 23, and England plays Belgium the following Thursday, June 28.
Meanwhile, Day 7, Wednesday, June 20, World Cup games are as follows:
- 7 AM CT: Portugal vs Morocco (Group B)
- 10 AM CT: Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia (Group A)
- 1 PM CT: Iran vs Spain (Group B)
With fewer than 50 games to go, follow the Chicago Fire World Cup Central for more news and features in the month ahead, also look out for Watch Party opportunities to join in the excitement and keep track of the Fire social media hub for updates on the team.
