2022 World Cup – Tuesday 29 November 2022

Group G: Cameroon 3 (1) – (2) 3 Serbia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Cameroon scorers: Castelletto (29′), Aboubakar (63′), Choupo-Moting (66′). Serbia scorers: Pavlovic (45’+1’), S Milinkovic-Savic (45’+3’), Mitrovic (53′)

 

Group H: South Korea 2 (0) – (2) 3 Ghana (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

South Korea scorers: Cho (58′, 61′). Ghana scorers: Salisu (24′), Kudus (34′, 68′)

 

Group G: Brazil 1 (0) – (0) 0 Switzerland (Stadium 974, Doha)

Brazil scorer: Casemiro (83′)

 

Group H: Portugal 2 (0) – (0) 0 Uruguay (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Portugal scorer: Bruno Fernandes (54′, 90’+3’ pen)

 

And so the second round of group games comes to a finale with a bit of a goals flourish as the tables take shape leaving everyone knowing what needs to be done to progress whilst for others its simply means packing their bags.

The opening game of the day saw Serbia take on Cameroon in a game which a draw was not really of much use to either side, given they both lost their first group game. Serbia started brightly and Fulham’s Aleksandar Mitrovic was unlucky not to give them the lead when his curling effort struck the post. However, it was the African side who went ahead when a corner eventually found its way to the back post where Castelletto tapped in. It looked like an advantage they would take into the break but two goals in added time from Pavlovic and Milinkovic-Savic meant it was the Serbs who went in 2-1 up.

When Serbia then scored eight minutes into the second half with a simple Mitrovic finish after a slick breakaway move the game looked up for Cameroon. However, just as in the first half there was a quick burst of scoring as goals on 63’ and 66’ brought Cameroon level at 3-3. The first from Aboubakar looked it was offside and the way he cheekily lobbed the ball in and barely celebrated, indicated he felt the same. VAR check ensued and showed it wasn’t – cue Aboubakar’s celebration. Then another breakaway saw Choupo-Moting sweep home and suddenly the African side were in the ascendency. The see-saw match was nearly won late on, as Mitrovic was teed up inside the box, only to see his effort curl wide.

Ghana and South Korea then treated us to another ding-dong encounter. Ghana scored twice in the first half, when South Korea’s ability to defend balls into the box proved their undoing. From a free-kick Salisu eventually slotted home after the ball bounced around in the box and for the second, a deep ball in allowed Kudus to ghost in between the defenders and glance home – kudos indeed (sorry couldn’t resist it!) Whatever was said in the South Korean dressing room did the trick as two towering headers from Cho on 58’ and 61’ had well, turned the game on its head. However, their joy was short-lived as within seven minutes Ghana were in front again. Credit to South Korea as they took the game to Ghana and created a number of chances. At the whistle though Ghana took the points and while they celebrated, South Korea manager Paulo Bento was sent off for arguing with English referee Anthony Taylor for not allowing a corner to be taken even though time was up.

After that the Brazil Switzerland game felt like a bit of anti-climax, with Casemiro’s sweet strike seven minutes from time pretty much the only highlight.

Last up was Portugal and Uruguay in a pretty ordinary game, with two goals from Bruno Fernandes (one a penalty in time added up) taking them through to the last sixteen. The biggest talking point was whether Ronaldo had got his head to the cross-shot that opened the scoring for Portugal. Well, weren’t we all relieved when Adidas who provide the Official World Cup balls (the Al Rihla – the journey) announced that the internal ball sensor had not detected any contact from Ronaldo – I’d have lost sleep over it!

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2022 World Cup – Monday 28 November 2022

Group E: Japan 0 (0) – (0) 1 Costa Rica (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Ecuador scorer: Fuller (81′)

 

Group F: Belgium 0 (0) – (0) 2 Morocco (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Morocco scorers: Sabiri (73′), Aboukhlal (90’+2’)

 

Group F: Croatia 4 (2) – (1) 1 Canada (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Croatia scorers: Kramaric (36′, 70′), Livaja (44′), Majer (90’+4). Canada scorer: Davies (2′)

 

Group E: Spain 1 (0) – (0) 1 Germany (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

Spain scorer: Morata (62′). Fullkrug (83′)

 

Yesterday started with two shocks results, had a shock start in game three, with the last of the day seeing two former World Cup winners play out a draw.

Whether Japan or Belgium had Lionel Ritchie’s Easy Like Sunday Morning, playing in the dressing room rooms before their respective matches, we will never know. However, the players of The Blue Samurai and The Red Devils certainly had something spinning around in their heads as both lost in games they were expected to win.

Having stunned Germany in their opener and Costa Rica having shipped seven goals against Spain, this looked on paper a cert for a Japanese victory. They made five changes for the game, and it didn’t do them any favours. As with so many fixtures to date half time arrived goal-less. The second half was just as tight but with nine minutes remaining Costa Rica broke the deadlock, with Keysher Fuller curling home a winner. In truth though Gonda in goal for Japan should have possibly done better getting two hands to the effort.

Next up were Belgium who despite having just squeezed past Canada were still favourites to beat Morocco who had opened with a 0-0 draw with Croatia. Belgium were decidedly sluggish in the first half and the disallowed goal in the first half should have been a warning as to Morocco’s threat. Instead they sleep walked into a bad dream as Thibaut Courtois made a hash of a free kick from Abdelhamid Sabiri and Zakaria Aboukhlal added a second in time added on. Credit to Morocco but a decidedly rocky display from Belgium.

Could game three continue the trend of the day? Well after two minutes Canada went ahead through a cracking header from Alphonso Davies against Croatia, and it looked possible. The Croats however didn’t panic and by the break were 2-1 up with smart finishes from Kramaric (36′), Livaja (44′). Canada though continued to create chances in what was an open game,  and it wasn’t until Kramaric’s second twenty minutes from time that finally broke the Canadians resistance. The last period was all Croatia as their class told and it was no surprise when added a fourth in time added on. Shock result avoided and Canada off to the departure lounge.

Into the last game of Sunday and was there an exit for Germany in the making in their game against Spain? These two last met in the 2010 finals in South Africa, when a Puyol goal in the second half was enough to send the Spanish through to their first ever World Cup Final. Another game, another first forty five minutes goal-less although an entertaining half, nonetheless. Spain though went ahead as substitute Alvaro Morata brilliantly flicked home from inside the box just after the hour and Germany were looking at a second loss. However, the Germans kept pushing and got their leveller seven minutes from time, as Fullkrug smashed home from inside the box. No one in the group eliminated and all to play for in the last round to come.

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2022 World Cup – Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November

Group B: Wales 0 (0) – (0) 2 Iran (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Iran scorers: Cheshmi (90’+8’), Rezaeian (90’+11’)

The Welsh will say that the sending-off of ‘keeper Wayne Hennessey with four minutes remaining was the turning point in this game, but the harsh truth is that Iran were the better side even before the red card. Gareth Bale had a quiet game and all in all it was a nervy and lacklustre performance from a side known for its passion and fighting qualities. Was there a touch of complacency on the part of the Wales team? Were they too focused on saying what they are going to do to England without dealing with the game in front of them? Whatever the reason, Wales are now in real danger of being on an early flight home.

 

Group A: Qatar 1 (0) – (1) 3 Senegal (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Qatar scorer: Muntari (78′). Senegal scorers: Dia (41′), Diedhiou (48′), Dieng (84′).

Thankfully the results in Group A today meant that the hosts are out. What was telling yet again was the sight of ‘fans’ hitting the exits at half-time. Proof if needed that there is no appetite for the game in the country. I just hope those who voted for Qatar enjoy their thirty pieces of silver. It’s a tournament doing nothing for the game except bringing controversy.

 

Group A: Netherlands 1 (1) – (0) 1 Ecuador (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Netherlands scorer: Gakpo (6′). Ecuador scorer: E Valencia (49′)

The Dutch have been deeply criticised by their own media and pundits back home and this display showed why. They scored early in this game through Cody Gakpo with a powerful strike but then struggled therein after although credit must go to spirited Ecuador side. The South American’s will have felt slightly aggrieved that they had a first half goal struck off, with the decision that a player was in an offside position and in the ‘keepers eye-line. However, they were level soon after a Enner Valencia scored his third of this tournament with a tap-in and could have gone ahead when a Gonzalo Plata effort rattled the crossbar. All to play for in the final round of games, with the Netherlands, Ecuador and Senegal battling for the two places to progress.

 

Group B: England 0 (0) – (0) 0 USA (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

It was mentioned more than once in commentary that this was a mirror of the Euros when England drew 0-0 with Scotland in their second group game. Then as now it was a poor  performance, but it meant the Three Lions have their destiny in their own hands when they face Wales next week. This was a return to the disappointing displays of this summer and once again dissenting voices questioned Gareth Southgate’s tactic and substitutions during this encounter. Credit though to the USA for getting their tactics right and more than deserving a point.

 

Group D: Tunisia 0 (0) – (1) 1 Australia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Australia scorer: Duke (23′)

Whilst driving I caught the last 15 minutes of this game on the radio, and it sounded all Tunisia and only some superb defending and solid goalkeeping from Mat Ryan preserved their clean sheet and enabled the Aussies to claim the win thanks to a deft header in the first half thanks to Mitchell Duke. Australia know that victory over the Danes in their final game would guarantee a place in the last sixteen.

 

Group C: Poland 2 (1) – (0) 0 Saudi Arabia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Poland scorers: Zielinski (39′), Lewandowski (82′)

By the time I arrived at my destination (Long Eaton United v Pontefract Collieries) this game was already underway, and despite the fact that the fixture was on various screens, their seemed little appetite for the action, which is a shame given from the highlights it looked a bit of a cracker with chances and incidents galore. Whilst 2-0 looks a solid win, it tells nothing of the Saudi’s attacking threat and some great saves from Wojciech Szczesny in the Polish goal including an excellent penalty save at the end of the first half. Robert Lewandowski scored late on to seal the points and take Poland top of the group.

 

Group D: France 2 (0) – (0) 1 Denmark (Stadium 974, Doha)

France scorer: Mbappe (61′, 86′). Denmark scorer: Christensen (68′)

France secured the win and a place in the last sixteen with a late win in an entertaining encounter. Les Bleus dominated the first forty-five but couldn’t finish any of the chances they created. It took until just after the hour to go ahead from Mbappe which spurned Denmark into action and indeed they levelled on sixty-eight minutes. Both sides had chances to win it but with four minutes remaining it was the World Champions who claimed the win with Mbappa bundling in at the post for his and France’s second goal.

 

Group C: Argentina 2 (0) – (0) 0 Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Argentina scorers: Messi (64′), Fernandez (87′)

After the shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, Argentina knew that nothing but a victory would be enough against Mexico. Given that pressure it was perhaps not surprising that this was best described as a cagey game. It took two smart finishes from Messi and Fernandez to see off the spirited Mexicans. Poland await Argentina in the final game of the group stage, whilst Mexico play Saudi Arabia will the group wide open.

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2022 World Cup – Friday 25 November 2022

Group G: Switzerland 1 (0) – (0) 0 Cameroon (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Switzerland scorer: Embolo (48′)

 

Group H: Uruguay 0 (0) – (0) 0 South Korea (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

 

Group H: Portugal 3 (0) – (0) 2 Ghana (Stadium 974, Doha)

Portugal scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (65′ pen), Félix Sequeira (78′), da Conceicao Leao (80′). Ghana scorer: A Ayew (73′), Bukari (89’minutes)

 

Group G: Brazil 2 (0) – (0) 0 Serbia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Brazil scorer: Richarlison (62′, 73′)

 

Thursday was a drab old day in West Yorkshire, rain, grey sky and a biting wind reminding all that winter has assuredly arrived. And it pretty much felt as if some of that dourness had seeped into the  first two games of the day as the first round of group games played to a conclusion.

Whilst Cameroon had an energy about them in a first half in which they were the better side, genuine chances were at a premium and there was an inevitability about it being goal-less at the break. The deadlock was broken early in the second half as a swift Swiss move saw Cameroon born Breel Embolo sweep his adopted country into the lead. After that, well, Switzerland were more positive, but it fizzled out as quickly as the crowds are want to do at these finals in Qatar. The chant of ‘we can see you sneaking out’ should be changed for Qatar to ‘switch the lights off last one out’ (I know it doesn’t properly scan at all, but you get the picture).

Uruguay v South Korea offered little more. The South American’s hit the woodwork in each half but apart from that it felt as if both sides were satisfied with a point.

Then like the sun breaking through the clouds it all changed as Portugal and Ghana offered up a bit of a belter. Ronaldo seemingly unburdened by his Old Trafford kiss and tell revelations was at the heart of all of Portugal’s best moments, with two decent chances spurned and an effort disallowed for a foul. No goals at the break, but a game nicely simmering under, which exploded into action in the last twenty five minutes. First up Portugal were rather generously awarded a penalty after a foul on the Portugal skipper, who then stepped up to convert and become the first man to score in five World Cup finals – love him or hate him, you can’t keep him out of the headlines. However, the lead was short-lived with poor Portuguese defending allowing Ayew to fire home inside the six-yard box on seventy-three minutes. Ghana though were then hit by two goals and with ten minutes remaining it looked game over as they trailed 3-1. But with just a minute left on the clock back came the Black Stars with a header from Bakari to set up a frantic finish. And it nearly came in the ninth minute of time added on. Costa the Portugal ‘keeper put the ball down to kick it up field, whilst  panto-style (he’s behind you) Inaki Williams waited. Williams dashed forward to get the ball but slipped at the crucial minute and the chance for a dramatic leveller was gone. Breathless stuff!

To round off the day, Brazil took on Serbia. I’m not a great fan of the South American team, but they were good enough to see off a dogged Serbian team, with a double from Richarlison, the second of which, a scissor-kick volley, is an early contender for goal of the tournament.

 

In a flash we are already at the start of the second round of Group Stage games and depending on results some teams will already be waving mae alsalama to the finals. Here’s todays line-ups.

Group B: Wales v Iran (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

After their fine second half performance against the USA, and Iran’s heavy defeat, the Welsh will be in prime position to take three points this morning. I’ll be hoping the Red Dragons do the business, so that the final group game for both the Three Lions and Wales leaves both already through to the knockout stages.

 

Group A: Qatar v Senegal (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

I’m not a vindictive person but simply hoping that Qatar get another good hiding – plain and simple. Nothing else to say.

 

Group A: Netherlands v Ecuador (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

The Dutch already have three points in the bag after a win over Senegal and I expect nothing more than a similar outcome today.

 

Group B: England v USA (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

I’ll trot out the old fact that England have played USA twice in the World Cup and have yet to beat them. 1950 was the infamous 1-0 loss at the Brazil World Cup for an England side that contained the stars of the day such as Tom Finney, Billy Wright, Stan Mortensen and future England manager, Alf Ramsey. Then in 2010 when South Africa hosted the tournament, despite an early Steven Gerrard goal, the USA levelled five minutes before the break when Rob Green had a moment to forget allowing Clint Dempsey’s speculative shot to squirm its way into the goal. I don’t expect another 6-2 result but believe a solid 2-0 for Three Lions is not out of their reach.

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2022 World Cup – Thursday 24 November 2022

Thursday 24 November

GROUP F: Morocco 0 (0) – (0) 0 Croatia (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

 

GROUP E: Germany 1 (1) – (0) 2 Japan (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Germany scorer: Gundogan (33′ pen). Japan scorers: Doan (75′), Asano (83′)

 

GROUP F: Spain 7 (3) – (0) 0 Costa Rica (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Spain scorers: Olmo (11′), Asensio (21′), F Torres (31’pen, 54′), Gavi (74′), Soler (90′), Morata (90’+2)

 

GROUP E: Belgium 1 (1) – (0) 0 Canada (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Belgium scorer: Batshuayi (44′)

 

Another quartet of games on a day which started with a 0-0 included another major shock, a goal-fest and ended with nearly a second shock of the day.

2018 beaten finalists Croatia were first on Wednesday morning against Morocco and was as the cliché goes a bit of a bore draw. The less sad the better. Thankfully up next was a slow burner which turned into the surprise result of the day as Japan came from behind to beat Germany 2-1. Before kick-off Germany took their positions for the traditional team photo and then the players covered their mouths, with manager Hansi Flick saying it was “to convey the message that FIFA is silencing” teams. An interesting start to proceedings. Germany dominated the first half and got their reward when a penalty from Gundogan just after the half hour mark put them ahead. It was though to be a game of two-halves as Japan got at the Germans time and time again and were rewarded with an equaliser fifteen minutes from time. Then to cap it off, substitute Takuma Asano, who plays for German club VfL Bochum scored seven minutes from time slotting home from an acute angle. Understandably at the whistle the Japanese celebrations were a joy to behold. Is another German wobble on the cards?

Spain then took on Costa Rica in what turned out to be a pasear por el parque. As with the England game earlier in the week its difficult to make too much of the result when a side is hammered 7-0. Of course it’s a confidence booster for a team but can equally give a false impression especially when there are harder challenges to come in the later stages of the competition.  The pick of the goals came from Gavi, Spain’s fifth and their last in time added on from Morata.

The day ended with what on paper looked like a no contest, as Belgium ranked number two in the World took on Canada ranked forty-first. The North American side pushed Belgium all the way and had a glorious chance to go ahead in the first half, but Alphonso Davies saw his spot-kick saved by Belgium ‘keeper Thibaut Courtois. They came to rue that miss and the many other chances they created as shortly before the break as Michy Batshuayi finished clinically from a long ball. Canada were the better side throughout as acknowledged by the Belgian manager Roberto Martinez in a post-match interview and in reality deserved at least a point. This could yet turn out to be an interesting group and on this performance Canada will be tough opposition for both Croatia and Morocco.

 

Group G: Switzerland v Cameroon (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

The opening game of the day sees Switzerland who were winners of UEFA Group C, going unbeaten with five wins and three draws, take on Cameroon who qualified as CAF third round winners. The Swiss are in the finals for the twelfth time reaching the Quarter Finals in 1934, 1938 and in 1954 when they hosted the tournament. Familiar faces within the squad to English fans will be Manuel Akanji (Manchester City), Fabian Schar (Newcastle United), Denis Zakaria (on loan at Chelsea from Juventus), Remo Freuler (Nottingham Forest) and Granit Xhaka (Arsenal). Cameroon are in the finals for the eighth time, with 1990 their further progression to date when they were beaten in the Quarter Finals by England. A couple of players in the English leagues are Swansea City’s Olivier Ntcham and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Their captain is the experienced striker Vincent Aboubakar, and the Les Lions Indomptables (The Indomitable Lions) will need him to be firing if they are to make any impression in this group. Is a 0-0 on the cards?

Group H: Uruguay v South Korea (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

These sides have previously met in the World Cup. First in 1990 in a Group E game where a Daniel Fonseca goal in time added on was enough to see Uruguay progress from the group. Eight years later in South Africa they played each other in the last sixteen with two Luis Suarez goals either side of Lee Chung-yong’s equaliser saw Uruguay through 2-1. Suarez is still with the Uruguayan squad in what will surely be his last hurrah at the World Cup finals. Battling for the scoring spotlight on the day could be Spurs Son Heung-min and Wolves Hwang Hee-chan. Uruguay to make it three wins against the South Korean’s in World Cup finals tournaments.

Group H: Portugal v Ghana (Stadium 974, Doha)

The story that has dominated ahead of this fixture is the ending of the second spell of Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United. It’s been a traumatic time since he gave his explosive interview with Piers Morgan which has resulted in him leaving Old Trafford. You have to ask did he see the open criticism of the management and owners of the club as the best way to get a move away or was this a genuine insight into life under Erik ten Hag and the Glazers. Portuguese fans will hope that it leaves Ronaldo with a clear head for international duty, but there will be the lingering doubts and indeed the impact it may have on the dressing room. Ghana will be hoping to take advantage of any discord that may be lingering within the Portuguese ranks, with Crystal Palace striker Jordan Ayew looking to add to his international tally of 19 goals. An upset could be in the making.

Group G: Brazil v Serbia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

If you talk World Cup’s you talk Brazil, although the five times winners last triumph was twenty years ago. With panto-villain Neymar up front, the born-again Gabriel Jesus and the enigmatic Richarlison, there are undoubtedly goals in the side. They are on a decent inbeaten run coming into these finals and with two great ‘keepers in Alisson (Liverpool) and Ederson (Manchester City) the perceived concern about the weakness of Brazil’s last line of defence is no longer there. They will be a threat. Serbia have their own threat though in Fulham’s Aleksandar Mitrovic who now has 50 goals for his country from seventy six internationals, although there are concerns about a recent injury. Whilst ‘Mitro’ is the only English based player, eleven of the Serbian squad play their trade in Italy. No doubt The Eagles of Serbia will battle hard but expect the class of the boys from Brazil to come through.

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2022 World Cup – Wednesday 23 November 2022

GROUP C: Argentina 1 (1) – (0) 2 Saudi Arabia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Argentina scorer: Messi (10’ pen) Saudi Arabia scorers: Al-Shehri  (48′), S. Al-Dawsari  (53′)

 

GROUP D: Denmark 0 (0) – (0) 0 Tunisia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

 

GROUP C: Mexico 0 (0) – (0) 0 Poland (Stadium 974, Doha)

 

GROUP D: France 4 (2) – (1) 1 Australia

France scorers: Rabiot  (27′), Giroud (32′, 71′), Mbappe (68′). Australia scorer: Goodwin  (9′)

 

Four games, two goal-less, a win for the current World Champions and the first big shock of the tournament.

In a day of four games, it was an early start for those in the UK with the Argentina game starting at 10:00 and La Albiceleste quickest out of the blocks. Messi had an early effort after two minutes saved but had put Argentina ahead just eight minutes later. Again you have to question the VAR decision. From a free-kick, Leandro Paredes was pulled down and the spot-kick awarded after a check. Please can someone tell me how this was different to the Harry Maguire incident in the England v Iran game…Anyway Argentina didn’t capitalise on their first half dominance with VAR doing its best to ensure it was 1-0 at the break. Out came the Saudis who were level within three minutes of the restart and ahead on fifty-three minutes with a superb strike from Al-Hilal  forward Salem Al Dawsari. The South Americans huffed and puffed and even with fourteen minute of time added on couldn’t find an equaliser. Credit to Saudi Arabia, but don’t write off Argentina just yet.

Group C’s other game between Mexico and Poland ended 0-0 where the crucial moment came on fifty-eight minutes as Polish captain Robert Lewandowski had his penalty saved.

Group D also saw a 0-0 with Denmark and Tunisia with Danes having the best chances in the second half.

The final game of the day for anyone still gorging on the fourth fixture saw Australia give World Cup holders a bloody nose with a Craig Goodwin goal after nine minutes. Two quickfire goals after twenty seven minutes and thirty two minutes saw the French go 2-1 ahead. First Rabiot headed home and them Oliver Giroud scored his fiftieth international goal after Australia gave the ball away at the back. France could have been out of sight at the break as they created further decent chances. Into the second half and the French eased to a 4-1 win with the ever busy and creative Mbappe heading in on sixty-eight minutes and then turning provider three minutes later as he delivered the perfect cross for Giroud to score with a header, equalling Henry’s record of 51 France goals in the process. France looking ominously good.

 

GROUP F: Morocco v Croatia (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

Morocco qualified as CAF third round winners so making it to the finals for the sixth time. Nayef Aguerd (West Ham), Ilias Chair (QPR), Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea) and Anass Zaroury (Burnley) will be familiar to English fans and are part of a squad who didn’t concede in their last three games before Qatar with wins over Chile (2-0) and Georgia (3-0) and a draw with Paraguay (0-0). Croatia of course put pay to the Three Lions hope of a final appearance in 2018 winning 2-1 in the Semi-Final clash. The side is led by the mercurial Luka Modric supported by the vastly experienced squad members Domagoj Vida, Dejan Lovren, Mateo Kovacic, Ivan Perisic and Andrej Kramaric. I really can’t see anything other than a victory for Kockasti (The Checkered Ones).

GROUP E: Germany v Japan (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Four-times World Cup winners strolled through qualification from UEFA Group J with nine wins and a surprise 2-1 loss to North Macedonia. Die Mannschaft like England were far from convincing in their recent Nations League campaign and at the 2018 finals in Russia failed to make it out of the Group Stages, whilst at the Euros exited in the last sixteen to England. Will this be another tournament of frustration? Certainly their opening game against Japan will be a tester. Previous to 2022 the Blue Samurai have appeared at the last six finals reaching the last sixteen in 2002, 2010 and 2018. The Japan forward line looks short on goals at international level and this will be a concern.

GROUP F: Spain v Costa Rica (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Spain had a fairly comfortable passage to the finals as UEFA Group B winners, whilst Costa Rica were the last side to qualify back in June after beating New Zealand 1-0 in the CONCACAF–OFC play-off final held in the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Qatar. The Spanish side looks light on goals as this level with only Alvaro Morata and Ferran Torres in double figures, 27 and 13 respectively and the feeling is that it is a side very much in transition. This is Costa Rica’s sixth appearance at the finals, reaching the Quarter Finals in 2014 before going out on penalties to the Netherlands. They have an experienced squad with four players over the 100 caps mark, including, Keylor Navas (107), Celso Borges (155), Bryan Ruiz (146) and Joel Campbell (119). This could be a stalemate, although don’t be surprised if Spain pinch it by a single goal.

GROUP E: Belgium v Canada (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Belgium won UEFA Group E going unbeaten with eight wins and two draws and were third place winners in the 2018 World Cup. A vastly experienced and talented squad, the criticism of Belgium teams down the years is that they have always underachieved. Certainly 2022 will be the last chance of World Cup glory for a number of the squad echoed in a recent interview by captain Eden Hazard, who also reflected that his own level is not what it was. Canada qualified as CONCACAF third round winners and last appeared in the finals in 1986 losing all three Group games to France, Hungary and the Soviet Union. They are coached by John Herdman an Englishman who moved to New Zealand in 2001 and coached the New Zealand women (2006–2011), the Canadian women (2011-2018) and the Canadian men from 2018. Within their squad is St Johnstone’s David Wotherspoon and Reading’s Junior Hoilett and eleven squad members playing in the MLS. Belgium to get off with a win must be on the cards.

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2022 World Cup – Tuesday 22 November 2022

Group B: England 6 (3) – (0) 2 Iran (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

England scorers: Bellingham (35′), Saka (43′, 62′), Sterling (45’+1’), Rashford (71′), Grealish (90′)

Iran scorers: Taremi (65′, 90’+13’ pen)

 

Group A: Senegal 0 (0) – (0) 2 Netherlands (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Netherlands scorers: Gakpo (84′), Klaassen (90’+9’)

 

Group B: USA 1 (1) – (0) 1 Wales (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

USA scorer: Weah (36’) Wales scorer: Bale (82’ pen)

 

So what of day two of the World Cup? England romped to victory over Iran, Netherlands scored two late goals to see off Senegal and of course Gareth Bale rescued a point for Wales against the USA.

The Three Lions victory was quite astonishing given the often pragmatic approach Gareth Southgate’s team have adopted in their tournament games. However, it was a bright and breezy attacking performance from England’s young guns in Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Sako which set the team on the way to three points. There was our old friend VAR which had an interesting day. Harry Maguire was man-handled at a first-half corner with no penalty awarded and no VAR check. Fast forward to time added on in the second half and a shirt pull saw a penalty for Iran. If that really was worthy of a penalty then in reality there would be a spot-kick awarded at every corner kick. Just where is the consistency with the technology?

I’m genuinely struggling to get into this tournament. I did watch the England game but really with only half an eye as I was working in my laptop and didn’t even tune in for the other two games of the day.

To add to my down mood…the pressure from FIFA, i.e. yellow cards for players, if wearing the One Love armbands. Disappointing that FIFA resorted to this and that the various nations bowed to the pressure. Well done to Alex Scott for wearing one though whilst presenting though. Another unacceptable situation from the day – the most expensive World Cup ever and the ticketing system and associated app failed for fans crashes leaving them unable to gain entry to the stadiums and missing part of the game.

Today’s games:

GROUP C: Argentina v Saudi Arabia

Argentina are amongst the favourites for this tournament and its not difficult to see why with the talent of Messi, Martinez and Di Maria in their ranks. A World Cup win would be a fitting end to Messi’s international career. Yes, the La Albiceleste have in the past have suffered opening game shocks – 1990 against Cameroon springs to mind, but it would be a major surprise if this was not a routine win for the two-time World Champions.

GROUP D: Denmark v Tunisia

Whilst Christian Ericksen has been back playing for his country since his horrific collapse at the Euros, this will be the first time as such back on the World stage in a major tournament. No doubt the Dane will take it all in his stride, and he will hope to be the spark against Tunisia who are appearing at their sixth World Cup. Whilst many of the Danish squad will be familiar to fans in the UK, the Tunisian squad is one spread across the globe. One name to look out for is Hannibal Mejbri, the youngster on loan at Birmingham City from Manchester United. A difficult one to call and a draw possibly on the cards.

GROUP C: Mexico v Poland

A South America v Europe clash concludes the opening games in Group C. Mexico qualified as CONCACAF third round runners-up with Poland coming through as UEFA play-offs Path B winners. For those looking for Premier League connections in the Mexican squad, then there is Raul Jimenez at Wolves, whilst for Poland, the Aston Villa pair of Matty Cash and Jan Bednarek (on-loan from Southampton) are joined by Krystian Bielik of Derby County, currently on-loan at Championship side Birmingham City. Of course the focus will be on the prolific striker, Polish captain Robert Lewandowski, who has had a sterling start to his career at Barcelona. These two have met in the 1978 World Final Group Stages, with Poland winning 3-1 in Argentina. Would be a surprise if there was a similar result today, in a game Poland may well nick through a Lewandowski winner.

GROUP D: France v Australia

Current World Champions France take on Australia who came through winning the AFC v CONMEBOL play-off against Peru winning 5-4 on penalties. The Aussies have six players plying their trade in Scotland – Nathaniel Atkinson, Kye Rowles, Cameron Devlin (all Hearts), Aziz Behich (Dundee United), Aaron Mooy (Celtic) and Keanu Baccus (St Mirren). The teams met at the last World Cup in the Group Stages. France went ahead through Antoine Griezmann only for Mile Jedinak to level, but Les Bleus won 2-1 with Paul Pogba getting the winner. The French will hope this is a good omen and a similar win to 2018 could well be on the cards.

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2022 World Cup – Monday 21 November 2022

The BBC were first out the blocks showing live the opening game of the competition and the hour before the first game was unlike any other build-up I’d witnessed for previous World Cups. The first thirty minutes were more akin to a political programme, as the show provided background and context from the awarding of the hosting to Qatar in 2010 whilst also highlighting the issues around the  regarding Qatar’s stance on same-sex relationships, its human rights record and treatment of migrant workers. Whilst some will have not favoured the handling of this, I genuinely believe that it was the right thing to do, in continuing to air the issues. To ignore what has and is going on and simply focus on the football as if nothing happened would be trite. Indeed, the Opening Ceremony was not shown on the main BBC1 coverage, an indication that there was a desire no to show what might be considered propaganda. This certainly didn’t feel like a celebration of the game or indeed the tournament to come.

FIFA bangs on about football being for everyone, but as pundit Alex Scott highlighted, Qatar is a venue where not every section of society is welcome.

Group A: Qatar 0 (0) – (2) 2 Ecuador

Scorers: E Valencia (16′ pen, 31′)

Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor

An inauspicious start for the hosts, not just on, but off the pitch. As the PA announcer tried to whip up the crowd with a countdown to kick-off from 10 to 1, the game started with the crowd not even getting down to a count of four. Not a great start.

Then on the pitch it was evident that Ecuador were too strong from the off. It looked like Enner Valencia had given the South American’s a lead after three minutes, only for VAR to come up with an offside that sums up why this equipment, its use and interpretation are making a farce of the game.

However, it wasn’t long before Valencia and Ecuador had the goal they deserved. Saad Al Sheeb the Qatar ‘keeper who has looked vulnerable in the melee that preceded the disallowed goal, then gave away a penalty just after the quarter of an hour mark, bringing down Valencia. The Fenerbahce forward dusted himself down and calmly slotted home the spot-kick. Ecuador dominated possession and it was no surprise when they scored a second on thirty one minutes, with Valencia beautifully heading home Preciado’s stunning cross. Qatar under the cosh and struggling.

They made it to the break just the two goals down and didn’t concede any further in a very flat second period. Ecuador took their foot off the gas as the game became a training ground stroll and the atmosphere wasn’t helped as many ‘fans’ left at half-time and on the hour mark. At the whistle it was three points to Ecuador and more pain one presumes to come for Qatar with fixtures against Senegal and the Netherlands remaining in the group.

My prediction of a 0-0, well it was truly off the mark – no surprise there given my record down the years!

Group B: England v Iran (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Qualification route:

England – UEFA Group I winners

Iran – Asian Football Conference (AFC) third round Group A winners

Form (last three games):

14 June (UEFA Nations League A) England 0–4 Hungary   [Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, England]

23 September (UEFA Nations League A) Italy 1–0 England [Milan, Italy]

26 September (UEFA Nations League A) England 3–3 Germany [Wembley Stadium]

 

27 September (Friendly) Iran 1–1 Senegal [Maria Enzersdorf, Austria]

10 November (Friendly) Iran 1–0 Nicaragua [Tehran, Iran]

16 November (Friendly) Iran 0–2 Tunisia [Doha, Qatar]

Preview:

I’m old enough to remember the awful starts that the Three Lions have in the Group stages of major competitions down the years. This on paper is another potential banana skin. The Nations League relegation and fears over the teams defensive capabilities don’t do anything to calm the nerves and therefore it will be interesting to see how England approach this game.

The Iranian squad contains a sprinkling of players from around the European leagues and should not be taken lightly. Those looking for a Premier League link in the Iranian squad can find it with Brentford’s midfielder Saman Ghoddos. Ghoddos was born in Sweden to Iranian parents and made two appearances for them in friendly internationals in 2017 against the Ivory Coast and Slovakia. However, he made the switch to Iran later that year and has been part of the squad since. Additionally there is Carlos Queiroz the Iranian coach who had spells at Manchester United.

Of course my heart wants this to be a comfortable and stress free victory, but my head tells me that this could be a tight one with England nicking a 1-0 win.

Group A: Senegal v Netherlands (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Qualification route:

Senegal – Confederation of African Football (CAF) third round winners

Netherlands  – UEFA Group G winners

Form (last three games):

17 July (COSAFA Cup 3rd-place match) Mozambique 1–1 (2–4 p) Senegal [Durban, South Africa]

24 September (Friendly) Bolivia 0–2 Senegal [Orléans, France]

27 September (Friendly) Iran 1–1 Senegal [Maria Enzersdorf, Austria]

 

14 June (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 3–2 Wales [Rotterdam, Netherlands]

22 September (UEFA Nations League) Poland 0–2 Netherlands (Warsaw, Poland}

25 September (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 1–0 Belgium [Amsterdam, Netherlands]

Preview:

Senegal nicknamed the Lions of Teranga are appearing in their third World Cup finals, having reached the Quarter-Finals in 2002 going out to Turkey 1-0 AET but not making it out of the group stages in Russia in 2018. Their squad is littered with players plying their trade in England including Chelsea duo, Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye (Everton), Nampalys Mendy (Leicester City) and Nottingham Forest’s Cheikhou Kouyate. However, the squad were dealt a major blow when Sadio Mane withdrew injured before the tournament started.

The Dutch are a squad packed with stars from across Europe and follow in the tradition of the Oranje sides of yesteryear, who have got to three finals in 1974, 1978 and 2010 but have yet to lift the trophy. The Netherlands could be dark horses in this competition, and I expect them to start off with a victory by a single goal.

Group B: USA v Wales (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Qualification route:

USA – Confederation of African Football (CAF) third round winners

Wales  – UEFA Group G winners

Form (last three games):

14 June (CONCACAF Nations League) El Salvador 1–1 USA [San Salvador, El Salvador]

23 September (Friendly) Japan 2–0 USA [Dusseldorf, Germany]

27 September (Friendly) Saudi Arabia 0–0 United States [Murcia, Spain]

 

14 June (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 3–2 Wales [Rotterdam, Netherlands]

22 September (Nations League) Belgium 2–1 Wales [Brussels, Belgium]

25 September (Nations League) Wales 0–1 Poland [Cardiff, Wales]

Preview:

As a Fulham fan its great to see the Whites represented by the defensive duo of Antonee Robinson and Tim Ream. West London is also represented by Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic, and further representative from the English capital in Arsenal’s goalkeeper Matt Turner. Drawn in with England and Iran as well as Wales, the USA will fancy their chances of progression

The story around Wales centres on their talisman Gareth Bale and the fact that the last time the Welsh qualified was in 1958. As with the USA, Wales also include two Fulham players in their squad, in Harry Wilson and loanee Dan James.

Could be the first draw of the tournament in a cagey encounter.

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2022 World Cup – Sunday 20 November 2022

Group A: Qatar v Ecuador (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

So here we are the opening game of the 2022 World Cup, and the hosts take on South American opposition in the guise of Ecuador.

Qualification route:

Qatar – N/A (Hosts)

Ecuador – South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) Fourth Place

Form (last three games):

27 October (Friendly) Qatar 1–0 Honduras [Marbella, Spain]

5 November (Friendly) Qatar 2–1 Panama [Marbella, Spain]

9 November (Friendly) Qatar 1–0 Albania [Marbella, Spain]

 

23 September (Friendly) – Saudi Arabia 0–0 Ecuador [Murcia, Spain]

27 September (Friendly) – Japan 0–0 Ecuador [Dusseldorf, Germany]

12 November (Friendly) – Ecuador 0–0 Iraq [Madrid, Spain]

Preview:

Hard to gauge what level Qatar (The Maroons) are realistically on the world stage, despite a FIFA ranking of No: 50, since they have not taken on any of the big guns at international level in the last couple of years. However, they come into this first game on the back of an unbeaten five game run in games played out in Spain with victories over Nicaragua, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama and Albania.

Ecuador (The Tricolours) are appearing at their fourth Finals having qualified in 2002, 2006 and 2014. Their best performance was back in 2006 when they emerged from their group as runners-up, before going out to England in the last sixteen to a second-half David Beckham free-kick. The team ranked 44 in the FIFA standings have gone unbeaten in their recent three game tour in Europe and have not conceded in their last six fixtures, however, they have only scored two goals in those games and not scored in their last three.

Whilst the Qatar squad is drawn from the Qatari Stars league, there are some familiar faces from the Ecuador squad, who all coincidently play for Brighton in the English Premier League – defender, Pervis Estupinan, and midfielders, Jeremy Sarmiento and Moises Caicedo. Sarmiento is an interesting one in that he played for England at U16, U17 and U18 before switching to the country of his birth.

Opening games tend to be cagey affairs with goals at a premium and given the recent form of the respective sides today there is no reason to see that changing. I’m going for a 0-0 later today, with both sides happy to take a point.

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2022 World Cup – Saturday 19 November 2022

On Sunday 20 November the 22nd edition of the FIFA World Cup competition begins with hosts Qatar taking on Ecuador at the Al Bayt Stadium. Am I excited? Am I looking forward to this edition which for the first time takes place in Winter rather than the traditional summer period?

Quite simply – No.

Part of it is due to the fact that it comes after a loaded sporting few weeks of tournaments both here in England and abroad featuring our national teams, as well as events such as the NFL International Series games at Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. As a fan I’ve shared the disappointment as the Red Roses, England women’s rugby union team, agonisingly lost to their New Zealand counterparts in the Final down-under, and in the Rugby League World Cup here in England where both the Men’s and Women’s suffered Semi-Final defeats. However, there has been joy though as the Men captured the T20 cricket trophy over Pakistan, and the Men’s England Wheelchair Rugby League side became World Cup winners.

Given this mega-feast of sport lately, the World Cup seems like an afterthought.

Of course after the Lionesses triumph in this summer’s European Championships and the Three Lions, run to the 2018 World Cup Semi-Final and European Championship Finals last year, expectation and excitement for football should be high. However, for me the Nations League performances against Germany, Hungary, and Italy showed that Gareth Southgate has taken the side as far as he can and there’s no disgrace in that given what he has achieved in his time in charge.

Other reasons for not being ‘up’ for the World Cup. Well, there are the much publicised concerns regarding Qatar’s stance on same-sex relationships, its human rights record and treatment of migrant workers. Additionally there must be real concerns over player and indeed match officials health in such temperatures. Nobody wants a repeat of the Christian Eriksen incident in the recent Euros.

Then there is FIFA swerving any position around the rainbow rainbow-coloured armband featuring a rainbow heart design to campaign against discrimination that some team captains will be wearing. The FIFA position is very much, don’t upset our hosts, it’s all about the football – totally blinkered. But what do you expect when the FIFA delegates will want for nothing in Qatar during their time in the Middle East. Who said corruption and backhanders within the walls of Zurich are dead? Politics and football – a heady mix but one football’s governing body will be engaging in during the coming weeks to defend the decision to be in Qatar.

Then this week late in the day more negative publicity. Firstly, another example of one rule for fans and one for the rest, as beer will not be sold to supporters, yet those in corporate areas of stadiums at the tournament will still be able to purchase alcohol. Then it has been followed by a curious speech by FIFA President Infantino which opened with the line: “Today I have strong feelings. Today I feel Qatari, I feel Arab, I feel African, I feel gay, I feel disabled, I feel a migrant worker.” We thought Blatter was bad, but here we are with another man in power messily defending the award of the World Cup to a country that bought the right to host it.

The most bizarre World Cup looms, who knows what it will bring.

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