Just like that, we’re already done with the first round of group stage matches at the Qatar World Cup.
And there’s plenty to talk about…from surprise results to stunning goals and history makers.
Here, we take a quick look at the five biggest talking points thus far:
Argentina 1 – 2 Saudi Arabia – No opening joy for Messi and co
It only took two days for the tournament to throw up one of the biggest upsets in the World Cup.
Saudi Arabia – ranked 51st in the world – got the better of the higher ranked Argentines…who boasted a squad that included top stars like Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Lautaro Martinez.
The Saudi’s showed that grit, determination and teamwork can sometimes give you the edge over technical superiority.
Germany 1 – 2 Japan – Blue Samurai shock four-time champions
Germany and Spain were overwhelming favourites to make it out of Group E. Apparently Japan didn’t get the memo.
On paper, Hajime Moriyasu’s side did not stand a chance against Die Mannschaft.
But goals from substitutes Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano in the final 15 minutes helped Japan fight back from Ilkay Gundogan’s first-half penalty for the Germans…pulling off the second major upset in Qatar so far.
Ronaldo in the history books…again.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the opening goal in Portugal’s 3-2 win over Ghana. In doing so, he became the first male footballer to score in five World Cups.
At 37…Ronaldo is also the tournament’s oldest goal scorer since Roger Milla, who netted for Cameroon at the age of 42 back in the 1994 edition.
It was the perfect way for the Portuguese star to take his mind off his high-profile exit from Man United, following his controversial interview.
Richarlison’s stunner for Brazil
With a forward lineup that included the likes of Neymar, Rodrygo and Gabriel Jesus…few would have expected under-performing Tottenham striker Richarlison to grab the limelight for Brazil.
But he did just that, with a stunning acrobatic spinning volley in the 2-0 win over Serbia.
The strike was in keeping with the skill, technique and athleticism that the Selecao are legendary for…and is a clear contender for goal of the tournament.
Goals galore
A total of 41 goals were scored in the first round of group matches.
This includes a number of high-scoring games, like Spain’s 7-0 win over Costa Rica and England’s 6-2 victory over Iran.
And with only four goalless draws…there’s been plenty of goal action so far to keep the fans entertained.
By: Nicholas Darren John
