Overview
- Spain routed Saudi Arabia 4-0 on Sunday, with Lamine Yamal scoring and Mikel Oyarzabal adding two goals, moving La Roja top of Group H on four points.
- Debutants Cape Verde held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw that included Kevin Pina’s side’s first-ever World Cup goal and left them with a credible route to the knockout rounds.
- Egypt recorded its first-ever World Cup victory, beating New Zealand 3-1 on Sunday behind a decisive Mohamed Salah goal, which put Egypt top of Group G with four points.
- Iran and Belgium played to a 0-0 draw in Los Angeles as Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand made seven saves and Belgium were reduced to ten men by a red card.
- The expanded format and tight early results are amplifying the importance of goal difference and single-match outcomes, and off-field issues such as visas and travel logistics are shaping teams’ preparation and public perception.