We’re 10 days into the
World Cup and it’s been a tournament of thrills and spills. We’ve seen some shockers, some heart-stoppers, some howlers and a whole lot of edge of the seat action. Russia 2018 is here in full force and it certainly has not disappointed!
Round 1 goes to the underdogs
The first round of group stages brought a bucket full of shock results as the underdogs showed up to silence some of the biggest teams in the tournament. The Russians took full home ground advantage in the opener as they dominated Saudi Arabia to open the World Cup in flying form. Friday brought one of the most anticipated games of the World cup which certainly did not disappoint. Portugal and Spain played to a 3-3 draw that could easily grab the crown for game of the tournament. From there, the action seemed to spiral out of control as Argentina settled for a 1-1 draw with Iceland, Mexico grabbed a huge win over reigning champions Germany and Brazil were forced to share the points with Switzerland. To top it all off, the final day of Round 1 action saw Colombia and Poland crash at the hands of Japan and Senegal in Group H.
The big guys flourish in round 2
Round 2 of the group stages saw things turn out a little more expectedly as the majority of big teams grabbed much needed wins. Russia kicked it off again as they ended Egypt’s dreams and gave the Pharaoh’s little hope of survival. From there, the big boys began to flourish as Portugal, Uruguay, Spain, France, Brazil, Belgium and England picked up their winning form. Sunday was a chaotic day which saw England absolutely dismantle Panama 6-1 followed by a 2-2 thriller between Senegal and Japan which puts both teams even at the top of Group H with 4 points each with Colombia trailing behind after a surprising 3-0 win over Poland.
Messi disappoints while Ronaldo takes the upper hand
As usual, one of the biggest talking points around the World cup will always be the Messi vs Ronaldo debate. When it comes to the World stage, Messi has often been slated for his mediocre performances and this World Cup has been no different. The “Argentinian Magician” has not managed a single goal while his Portuguese counterpart has already scored 4, including a hat-trick in Portugal’s opener against Spain. Ronaldo might have taken the upper hand for now, but we have no doubt that this debate will rage on through history.
Round 3 Preview
The final round of the group stages will without a doubt keep us on our toes and we’re expecting more shocks, more thrills and more Goals! Goals! Goals! Some big names could be in trouble as Germany face South Korea and Argentina face Nigeria in must win encounters.
Group A
Russia could finally face a tough test after 2 convincing wins as they battle Uruguay for top spot in Group A.
Group B
Portugal and Spain will both be expected to win against Iran and Morocco to progress in Group B but could face a tough test against hungry opposition, although Morocco are already out.
Group C
Group C will see a tired Australia battle Peru who have already been knocked out while Denmark and France will clash in a truly mouthwatering encounter which should see both teams progress.
Group D
Group D provides the biggest talking point as Argentina, Iceland and Nigeria will all be looking to join Croatia in the next round. The Argentina team have called for their manager to be sacked which could pump a whole new attitude into the dressing room as they look to revitalize their campaign.
Group E
Although Brazil have not been entirely convincing, they have still shown promise and will surely beat Serbia to progress while Switzerland will want to keep their heads to triumph over a shakey Costa Rica side to join the Brazilians in the next round.
Group F
Germany simply can’t afford another slip up and will be looking to comfortably shut out South Korea while things are looking bleak for Sweden who will have to face an absolutely lethal Mexican side.
Group G
We could be in for the game of the tournament so far as 2 of the most convincing teams at the tournament go head to head in a game where the prize is top spot. Panama and Tunisia will close out the group with zero chance of either side progressing.
Group H
The group stages will be topped off by a seriously exciting group. Anything can happen here and Japan just need 1 point to progress. The Polish side surely won’t make it easy for them and have serious potential to cause an upset. Colombia will also just need 1 single point but the Senegalese have looked deadly at times and could cause a proper upset here.
For all the latest sports news, football betting tips and promotions, follow
Betway South Africa on
Facebook,
Twitter,
Instagram,
Google+ and
YouTube