Retired English referee, Mike Dean, has questioned the officiating in Ghanaâs 3-2 defeat to Portugal in the 2022 World Cup on Thursday.
American referee, Ismail Elfath, penalized Mohammed Salisu for the least contact with Cristiano Ronaldo to award the two-time World Cupsemi-finalists a penalty.
Mike Dean believes Elfath should have been invited to review the incident at the pitch side Video Assistant Referee (VAR) monitor, but that was not done.
He said the decision to give Portugal the penalty was something he cannot defend, though he usually tends to back referees.
âThe VAR, in my opinion, should have gotten involved, shouldâve invited the referee over to have a look at it,â Mike Dean told beIN Sports after the game.
He continued, âI like to back referees all the time, but you canât support stuff like that. You canât defend the undefendable.
âFor me, it shouldâve been overturned, he shouldâve gone to the screenâŠ100% it was wrong.â
Ghana head coach Otto Addo also described the penalty as a gift from Ismail Elfath while expressing his disappointment at the performance of the referee.
Joy Sports understands the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has petitioned FIFA over the key decisions of the referee that affected the outcome of the game.
Ghana will shift focus to Mondayâs encounter against South Korea in their second Group H game.
Tite is confident Neymarwill continue playing at the World Cup for Brazil despite the ankle injury he sustained in a bruising opening contest with Serbia.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward limped off in the latter stages of the Selecao’s 2-0 victory, which was sealed by Richarlison’s second-half brace, having been repeatedly fouled at Lusail Stadium.
Neymar looked close to tears as he received treatment on the bench, before being pictured with a swollen ankle as he made his way to the dressing room.
Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed the 30-year-old will undergo further assessment in the next 24 to 48 hours but Tite, who revealed Neymar continued playing a further 11 minutes after sustaining the injury, is adamant he will return.
“[Neymar] felt this pain throughout the game, but he decided to stay on the pitch to help his team,” the head coach said.
“So it’s remarkable that he could bear this pain while his team was playing. He stayed 11 minutes on the pitch after his injury, until the moment he could no longer continue, and he was substituted.
“We are confident that Neymar will continue playing; he will continue playing in the World Cup.
“I didn’t see Neymar was injured â the capacity he had to overcome it tricked me, I only saw it now in the video. When he actually dribbled, it caused that injury, and in that second goal you see when he controlled the ball that he felt it.”
“Our players have really done well. Just that some few lapses that made us lose the game but I hope that Insha Allah, the next match, we are going to make it,” Alhaji Said Mutaka said.
“There’s no need for us to be angry or mad at them, not at all”, Black Stars fan Jessica Selikplim insisted.
“They did well, it wasn’t easy. The game was actually tough but they did well, scoring two, they have done well, like Kudos. They’ve done well, like.”
At the Stadium 974 in Doha, All the goals came in a wild final half-hour. Ronaldo scored on a contested penalty, Ayew then equalized for Ghana.
Joao Felix regained the lead for Portugal, and Rafael Leao added a third. Osman Bukari reduced Ghana’s deficit in the 89th.
Ghana will play South Korea on Monday and will count on its fans.
Coach Otto Addo said the Black stars proved Thursday they could “compete with the opponent”.
For now, they sit at the bottom of group H. The group comprises of Ghana, Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay.
Tears streamed down the face of Richarlison. He was inconsolable. He had shed blood, sweat and tears to force his way into the Brazil squad.
Then the XI. Yet, just three weeks before Tite named his squad for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022âą, he was on crutches.
Blubbering, he struggled to speak. Eventually, the words trickled out. âIâm devastated,â he said. âI was so close to the realisation of my dream. The last time I had this injury I was out for two months.â Furthermore, Tite had already said, reiterated and â irritated â eventually stressed that he would not gamble on players whose fitness was in doubt. It turns out that declaration had a disclaimer.
âRicharlison, Tottenham,â Tite said as he read out his 26-man list for the flight every Brazilian craved to Doha. Richarlison did not even hear the second word. Tite probably heard the London-based attackerâs wild celebrations all the way from Granja Comary, Rio de Janerio. âI was really, really nervous,â Richarlison admitted, explaining his excitement.
âThe World Cup is the dream of dreams. I was so scared.â Pombo (Pigeon, his nickname) is an absolute teacherâs pet. The coach handed the attacker his debut in 2018 and has made him an ever-present in the frighteningly competitive Seleção squad. So despite Richarlison having only played 100 minutes since his injury, he was named up front for the curtain-rasier. Richarlison, quintessential Richarlison, careered over the Lusail Stadium turf in the first half, harrying defenders and forcing turnovers of possession.
If the first 45 showcased his desire and indefatigability, the second spotlighted his opportunism and excellence. It was 0-0, just after the hour, when Richarlison reacted to a rebound to fire Brazil ahead from close range. Eleven minutes later he executed a spectacular bicycle-kick to seal the deal. The moment Richarlison had dreamed about so much for so long â the one he thought had evaporated â was even better than he could have concocted.
âIâm so happy for him,â Antony told FIFA+. âHeâs a great guy. He deserves it. Thatâs Richarlison. You give him a chance, he scores. You should see him in training. He shoots from anywhere and everywhere, all sorts of angles. Heâs an incredible player.â âHis performance was outstanding,â added Fred. I want to congratulate him. Itâs not easy on your World Cup debut, but he scored two goals. The most important thing is that we got the victory. It was a great performance.â
When Antonee Robinson detected a feeling of contentment in some English quarters following the draw for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022âą, the USA left-back was immediately âfired upâ.
It was an instinctive response to a perceived slight that shone a bright light on the character of a persevering, undaunted and resilient competitor.
The 25-year-old, a first pick for Gregg Berhalter after comprehensively winning over the formerly sceptical American coach, is modest, thoughtful and proud.
Robinson was fresh from a loan with Bolton Wanderers in the English Championship when he made a senior USA debut shortly before the 2018 Russia World Cup, the first tournament without American involvement since 1986.
Prevailing opinion at Robinsonâs parent club Everton was that the player, who joined aged 11, didnât possess the attributes to reach the height of his sport. His progress at Goodison Park was checked by fitness issues â Robinson broke his left knee patella in 2014 and the following year needed microfracture surgery on his right knee â and the presence of first-rate left-back Leighton Baines.
The eve of a World Cup meeting with England, the country of Robinsonâs birth, partway through a personally exceptional Premier League campaign, then, feels an appropriate point to reflect on the Fulham playerâs steeply-climbing career trajectory.
âTo come from where I have, and shattered the expectations people did or didnât have of me, to play in this World Cup, means everything to me,â says Robinson. âMy family expected me to do big things, though, and to achieve everything they thought I would and still have so much room to grow and so much ahead of me, makes them immensely proud.
âTo turn around my situation to play regularly in the Premier League and know I genuinely had a big part in helping us qualify for this World Cup, and wasnât just making up the numbers, means even more. That is why we play the game. To win and to be competitive and to make our family and friends proud of us. It is a genuinely proud moment for me and stepping on the pitch at a World Cup was one of the best days of my life.â
High intensity
Robinson started and finished USAâs first World Cup game since the last-16 defeat by Belgium in 2014 when Berhalterâs team drew 1-1 with Wales on Monday. He was typically quick and energetic â Robinson registered 81 sprints, recorded a comparatively extraordinary high-intensity distance of 1,618m and clocked a top speed of 35.4km/h, surpassing anything attained at World Cup 2018 â and prominent in a fast, aggressive and purposeful first-half performance when USA threatened to blow away their opponents.
As it was, the US had only one goal to show for their superiority and Wales recovered for an ultimately deserved draw. Donât expect Gareth Baleâs late penalty to clip the wings of Berhalterâs intrepid team, however.
USA didnât have it all their own way in CONCACAF qualifying. They had to wait until their third match for a victory, when Robinsonâs equaliser after coming on at half-time in Honduras paved the way for a 4-1 win.
They eventually took the final automatic qualification spot, pipping Costa Rica on goal difference. Berhalterâs squad boasts only one player with World Cup experience in 2014 veteran DeAndre Yedlin and its average age of 25 years and two months makes it the second youngest at the tournament behind Ghana. Robinson, however, insists the USAâs objective in Qatar is to surpass the achievements of the team of 2002, which reached the quarter-finals.
âIf we follow our gameplan and give everything we have, there is no limit to what we can do,â he says. âOn our day, we can beat any team in front of us. We are coming here to try to win the World Cup.
âIt was the first qualifying cycle for a lot of players. Going through that and learning in the deep end brought the group together and taught us what it takes.
The World Cup is new territory, but we have already entered new territory together. I know you hear this a lot from players, but I have never felt the togetherness and belief we share in our group. I am very excited going into battle with this team.â
Robinson qualifies for USA through father Marlon, who gained citizenship after moving from England to White Plains, New York, as a teenager. The player represented his adopted country at U-18 and U-23 levels before his first senior call-up under interim coach Dave Sarachan in May 2018, providing an assist in a debut win over Bolivia.
However, he initially regressed under Berhalter, who was appointed in December 2018. He is unflinching when reliving his first game for the coach, who selected Robinson at wing-back for a friendly against Jamaica. âEven in training leading up to the game, I wasnât really at a level,â says Robinson, who was playing for Wigan Athletic at the time. âGregg is quite a technical coach and it wasnât something Iâd known at that point of my career. Playing for Bolton and Wigan, I was largely dependent on my athleticism to get me through games.
âWhen I received my next call-up [in November 2020, after 17 months out of the picture], I still wasnât playing my game or full of confidence. But when we got to the World Cup qualifiers, I let loose and understood everything he was asking from me, offensively and defensively. I was confident and knew what to do in games and chipped in with goals and assists.â
Universally known as Jedi, the nickname thatâs accompanied him since the age of five, Robinson marked his strike against Honduras with a 360-degree backflip. Does he have anything planned if scores in Qatar? âScoring at a World Cup is no easy feat and I have in my head what I would do,â comes the reply. âI hope it becomes a reality, then everyone will know.â
Inspiration from the past
It betrays an innate flamboyance that Robinson cites South Africaâs joyful goal celebrations at their home tournament in 2010 among favourite World Cup memories. He is passing time in the playersâ lounge at the US hotel â beside the âmessing around and playing poolâ â watching other fixtures because, âwe are still those kids who grew up watching the World Cupâ. âIf we were at home,â continues Robinson, âweâd be trying to watch the games. It is the biggest event in the world.â
Robinson, who transferred from Wigan to Fulham in August 2020, is conscious of USAâs record of winning one and drawing one of two World Cup fixtures with England.
The 1-0 defeat for England in Belo Horizonte in 1950 has been widely revisited this week following the exploits of Saudi Arabia and Japan. When the countries met in Rustenburg 12 years ago, it was a man of Fulham, Clint Dempsey, who scored for the States in a 1-1 draw. The Fulham-USA connection gave birth to the term Fulhamerica and Robinson is grateful for the two-pronged support harvested by compatriots Brian McBride, Carlos Bocanegra, Kasey Keller, Eddie Johnson and Dempsey.
Robinson nonetheless recalls England, in his view, expecting to brush aside USA in 2010. And he noted a similar outlook among sections of the media when the nations were drawn together in Qatar. âIt was a similar story back then [2010], England would look down on the USA,â says Robinson. âWhen the draw came out a lot of papers were saying England had the easiest group. I think it is the hardest group.
That fired me up even more to diminish the claim they would stroll through the group. âI like being an underdog and upsetting people and if I can play that role, it would be great. Previous US teams have got through on determination and grit and workrate. They have never been easy to play against. If we can emulate that and add our quality, we will be fine.â
Pele, Uwe Seeler and Miroslav Klose have all netted at four World Cups but Ronaldo is now out in front in that regard after scoring at a fifth finals.
Here, Stats Perform looks at each of Ronaldo’s previous seven goals on the biggest stage of them all, three of which came in one game.
Portugal 2-0 Iran (Frankfurt, 2006)
Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot for the first of his World Cup goals against Iran in 2006, making him Portugal’s youngest ever scorer in the competition at 21 years and 132 days, a record that stands to this day. Despite Portugal finishing third that year, a teenage Ronaldo did not add to his goals tally.
The Selecao put seven goals past North Korea, with Ronaldo scoring the sixth of those to end a two-year wait for an international goal. Portugal failed to find the net in any of their other three matches in South Africa and were eliminated by Spain in the last 16.
Portugal 2-1 Ghana (Brasilia, 2014)
Ronaldo scored a late winner in Portugal’s final group match against Ghana â a simple finish following some poor defending â but it was not enough to prevent his side from exiting Brazil 2014 in the first round behind the United States and tournament winners Germany.
Entering the tournament as the world’s best player, Ronaldo lived up to his billing by scoring a hat-trick in what will go down as one of the all-time great individual World Cup performances.
After opening the scoring from the penalty spot, the superstar forward beat David de Gea with a shot from outside the box and then scored a late free-kick to rescue a point in a topsy-turvy thriller.
Portugal 1-0 Morocco (Moscow, 2018)
Ronaldo was not finished there, either, as he made it four goals for the tournament with an unstoppable header inside four minutes against Morocco, with that proving to be the winner.
However, his goalscoring touch eluded him in the knockout rounds as he fired a blank in the 2-1 loss to Uruguay in the last 16.
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has admitted his side are under pressure to qualify from Group H after losing 3-2 to Portugal in their 2022 World Cup opener on Thursday.
Black Stars began their campaign on a wrong note, losing narrowly to Fernando Santos’ side.
After the goalless first half, CristianoRonaldo opened the scoring for Portugal via the penalty spot but Ghana equalised through skipper Andre Ayew from close range.
Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points, Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
Osman Bukari headed in a late consolation for Ghana and there could have been real drama in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
“First of all, surely, we have a chance especially because they played a draw so if we win against South Korea and Portugal win hopefully against Uruguay then we will be second so the chance is still big,” coach Addo said after the game.
“And surely it will be very, very tough to beat South Korea because they are good. But now we have to win. We are under pressure but they too.”
The defeat means Black Stars are bottom of Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.
The Black Stars will now switch their attention to their attention to the match against South Korea on Monday before taking on Uruguay on December 2 at the Education City stadium.
Portugal edged Ghana for a 3-2 win at Stadium 974 on Thursday evening in the Black Starsâ 2022 World Cup opener as VAR was missing in action.
Cristiano Ronaldo converted a controversial penalty to give the Portuguese the lead just after the hour mark before Andre Ayew levelled for Ghana.
There was late drama as the European nation scored two-in-two minutes for a 3-1 lead. Substitute Osman Bukari headed in brilliantly late on to end the game 3-2.
The Black Stars became the first African team to score a goal at this yearâs tournament.
Portugal leads Group H with three points after the win, with Ghana bottom. Uruguay and South Korea have a point each after drawing goalless earlier.
The Black Stars will next play South Korea on November 28 while Portugal faces Uruguay on the same day.
Cristiano Ronaldo got the first sight at goal but Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was very proactive to run out of his line and put the ball to safety in 10 minutes.
The A Selecao restricted the Black Stars to their own half in the first 20 minutes, playing 76% of the ball while Ghana has only 24% of possession.
At the half hour mark, Ronaldo drilled the ball into Ghanaâs net but he fouled Alexander Djiku in the process.
The Black Starsâ plan to catch Portugal on the counter wasnât working as the midfield could not spot Inaki Williams, with the Euro 2016 champions getting 5 attempts, one on target against Ghanaâs zero.
A half completed dominated by the two-time semifinalists ended in a goalless draw.
Ghana finally came out of their own half to play as Mohammed Kudus made a marvellous solo run to hit a great shot that missed the target narrowly 10 minutes into the second half.
Portugal was awarded a soft penalty that was not checked by the VAR after a least touch from Mohammed Salisu. The protestations of the Ghanaian players were ignored by the USA referee Elfath.
Ronaldo made no mistake from the spot as he converted brilliantly to break the deadlock in the 64th minute to make World Cup history. He became the first player to score in five consecutive tournaments.
Ghana pulled the equalizer through Andre Ayew, who latched onto a Kudus cutback in the 73rd minute.
Portugal caught Ghanaâs backline sleeping on the break as Joao Felix picked a Baba Rahman missed ball to convert from the right side of the box in the 78th minute.
The same situation repeated itself two minutes later. This time on the right side, with substitute Raphael Leao converting from the left post.
With a minute to the end of the 90, Osman Bukari cut Portugalâs lead to one after heading in a Baba Rahman cross from the left.
Portugal held on to for the victory to ward off Ghanaâs late pressure for an equalizer.
Lucas Hernandez has successfully undergone surgery after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in France’s 4-1 World Cup opening win against Australia on Tuesday.
Hernandez’s club Bayern Munich confirmed he had the operation in Innsbruck on Thursday, with his rehabilitation to commence in Munich in the coming days.
The defender was ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup due to the injury that saw him replaced after only 13 minutes.
Bayern did not provide a timeframe on Hernandez’s recovery but it is expected he will miss the rest of the 2022-23 season.
âčïž @LucasHernandez has undergone successful knee surgery.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Lucas! đ#MiaSanMia
Hernandez is the latest injury blow for the world champions, who saw Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema and Christopher Nkunku all ruled out before the tournament started.
France head coach Didier Deschamps said after Tuesday’s game: “Like the whole group, players and staff, I am extremely sorry for Lucas.
“We are losing an important element. Lucas is a warrior and I have no doubt that he will do everything possible to return to the game.
“I know him well. Courage, he will have it, that’s for sure. On behalf of the group, I wish him the best possible recovery.”
Hernandez has made 11 appearances, including 10 starts, for Bayern this season, having missed six weeks with an adductor injury sustained in September.
Ghana coach Otto Addo fumed at the decision to award Portugal a penaltyin their thrilling win over the Black Stars on Thursday, declaring: “I don’t know if the VAR wasn’t paying attention”.
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to net at five editions of the World Cup when he opened the scoring from the spot at Stadium 974, as Portugal eventually ran out 3-2 winners.
Ghana, however, were incensed by referee Ismail Elfath’s decision to award the spot-kick, believing Mohammed Salisu won the ball with his challenge on the five-time Ballon d’Or-winner.
Asked whether Ronaldo benefitted from a favourable decision, Addo said:Â “I think you’d have to ask the referee. I have no proof of that, but we were playing the ball, then there was a contact.
5 – Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first player to score five in different editions of the World Cup (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). Limitless. pic.twitter.com/w6noDKxoVR
“If I look at that moment, it’s incredible. If you look at a replay, we played the ball. It was actually a foul against us.
“The game was hectic, we made a few mistakes to allow the second and third goals, opening the lines for them to pass it. It was a little bit unlucky.
“With a bit of luck, we could have got one point. The referee was not in our favour. In my view, our yellow cards were deserved, but for me, holding jerseys is also a yellow card. I don’t know what was wrong, but he was really not in our favour.
“I asked some people from FIFA if I could talk briefly to the referee in a calm and quiet way, but they said he is in a meeting and it’s not possible.
“I think they have match analysis, so it’s the truth, but surely you can have some minutes for the coach.”
Ghana full-back Tariq Lamptey was also asked about the decision, responding: “I think you saw it. You can give your opinion.”
The African nation have now lost their opening match on three of their four participations at the World Cup (W1), but Lamptey believes there were plenty of positives to take.
“Obviously, I would have liked to get the win,” Lamptey said. “They have a lot of world-class players in their team, but we felt like we could have got the result we deserved, and we were so close to getting that.
“We know we played well, but it’s a difficult one as we know we could have got something. We’ll put that energy into our next game and give it our best.”
4 – Portugal 3-2 Ghana was just the fourth #FIFAWorldCup match to see as many as five goals having been 0-0 at half-time, after:
Poland 5-1 Peru (1982)
Netherlands 2-3 Brazil (1994)
Belgium 3-2 Japan (2018)
Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo has praised the national team’s “gutsy performance” in their World Cup opener against Portugal which ended in a 2-3 loss.
The Black Stars became the first African team to score a goal at this yearâs tournament, but lie at the bottom of Group H. They will next play South Korea on November 28.
Gutsy performance by the @GhanaBlackstars in todayâs match against Portugal. Very proud of the entire team. They live to fight another day, & have shown they have what it takes to mix it up against any team in the tournament. Looking forward to the next game against South Korea. pic.twitter.com/FiDWm5fO4b
To be honest Ronaldo hasnât been actually that bad. He just just need to work on his passing, shooting, movement, ball retention, dribbling, crossing, decision-making, set pieces, man-marking, ball control, tackling, shooting & few others things.
The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have lost their first match against Switzerland in the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Karl Toko Ekambi and his team mates fell short to a lone goal in their Group G opener interestingly from a Cameroonian born Swiss player Breel Embolo.
Cameroon with an impressive display in the first, would feel hard done by the result. The central African side were the better side in the first half having dominated possesion but the attacking line of Mbeumo Choupo Toko had to face an outstanding Swiss keeper.
This result does not make the business of the Indomitable Lions easier as they will still have to face two tough opponents : Serbia in the next game and the eternal favorites Braziland its 5 stars.
For Switzerland, their win against Cameroon was a hard fought victory extending once again their record of not losing a World Cup opening game in their past five appearances on footballâs biggest stage.
The World Cup has received a lot of attention in Chinese state media this week, but the matches are fueling frustrations that people in the country are being left out of the festivities.
Aside from China’s men’s national team failing to qualify, scenes of maskless celebrations and raucous gatherings in Qatar have irritated viewers, who have been discouraged from gathering to watch the games.
Many people have used the World Cup to express their displeasure with China’s current policies. To prevent the virus from spreading, the country maintains a zero-Covid policy, in which entire communities are shut down over single cases of the virus.
China is currently experiencing its worst outbreak in six months, and localised lockdowns have surged over the last couple of weeks. In the past 24 hours, China has recorded more than 28,000 new cases; these are in every single provincial-level region.
Football is very popular in China. President Xi Jinping is known for being a lover of the sport, and he has spoken previously of it being a dream for the country to win the World Cup .
As a result, matches are being shown on national broadcaster CCTV, and state media have sought to amplify China’s “presence”. The Global Times has reported on how China-made products “ranging from buses to the [Lusail] stadium, and even air conditioning units are well represented at the event”.
Leading outlets such as CCTV have also promoted the presence of Chinese flagbearers at the opening ceremony, and how two giant pandas arrived in Qatar to “meet” visitors arriving for the event.
IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES Image caption, A child plays with one of the Chinese giant pandas given to Qatar to mark the start of the World Cup
But it is evident that Covid-19 has put a damper on the celebrations. In major cities, outbreaks have resulted in non-essential businesses once again closing, and people being urged to limit their movements.
With no bars to go to, the Global Times newspaper says some fans are “choosing to watch the games at home with their families”. Others have also reportedly taken to camping sites.
IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES Image caption, This was the scene in a sparsely filled pub in Shanghai while the World Cup was being shown
Many are feeling acute isolation watching this year’s event.
An open letter questioning the country’s continued zero-Covid policies and asking if China was “on the same planet” as Qatar quickly spread on mobile messenger WeChat on Tuesday, before being censored.
Comments on the Twitter-like Weibo social network are rife from viewers who speak about how watching this year’s matches is making them feel divided from the rest of the world.
Some speak of their perception that it is “weird” to see hundreds of thousands of people gathering, without wearing masks or needing to show evidence of a recent Covid-19 test. “There are no separate seats so people can maintain social distance, and there is nobody dressed in white and blue [medical] garb on the sidelines. This planet has become really divided.”
“On one side of the world, there is the carnival that is the World Cup, on the other are rules not to visit public places for five days,” one says.
Some say they have had difficulty explaining to their children why the scenes from the World Cup are so different to those people face at home.
There are many in China, though, who have been critical of countries overseas opening up while the World Health Organization still calls the Covid-19 virus an “acute global emergency”.
However, there is no end in sight to China’s existing measures. This week, the National Health Commission spokesman “warned against any slacking in epidemic prevention and control” and urged “more resolute and decisive measures” to bring cases under control.
Local governments in major cities have reintroduced mass testing and travel restrictions and ultimately delivered a message that people should try to stay at home.
But after three years of such measures, people are frustrated, resulting in protests in the last month in both the cities of Guangzhou and Zhengzhou.
Kevin De Bruyne was named player of the match in Belgium’s 1-0 win against Canada in their World Cup opener on Wednesday, but he was unsure why.
Belgium were second-best for large parts of the Group F contest at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, with Thibaut Courtois having to save a penalty from Alphonso Davies before Michy Batshuayi scored what proved to be the winner.
De Bruyne cut a frustrated figure as little came off for him on the night, and he was as confused as anyone as to why he had been awarded player of the match.
“I don’t think I played a great game, I don’t know why I got the trophy – maybe because of my name,” he said at a post-match press conference.
“We just didn’t play well as a team, especially in the first half.
“We started really badly, the momentum was with Canada and we couldn’t break through the press. I think there was more space than we thought.
“I don’t think we played a good game, me included, but we found a way to win.”
De Bruyne completed just 23 of his 33 passes (70 per cent), though did still create four chances, three more than any of his team-mates.
“When I saw the way we played I thought we were playing long too much, there was more space,” he added when asked about a confrontation with Toby Alderweireld immediately after the goal in the first half.
“You have to attract the pressing, play short and cross that line, but I don’t think we were brave enough to find that position.
“At half-time we cleared it up and things are OK, no hard feelings with Toby.”
Belgium head coach Roberto Martinez also acknowledged his team had not played well, but praised them for getting the three points.
Former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, has charged the current team to give out their best in their 2022 World Cup opener against Portugal today.
In a tweet, he encouraged the players to work as a unit and endure the difficult task ahead of them in order to emerge victorious.
“My Guys today is yet another day to prove to the world that we are the only Black star that shines,”
“The battle may seem tough but remember you are not alone. Ghana and Africa is behind you. Fight with team work, determination and perseverance… It is possible…”
My Guys today is yet another day to prove to the world that we are the only Black star that shines.
The battle may seem tough but remember you are not alone. Ghana and Africa is behind you. Fight with team work, determination and perseverance… It is possible…đŹđđŹđ pic.twitter.com/91G48F0V8h
Black Stars will begin their campaign against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal before taking on South Korea and Uruguay in the other Group H matches.
Only three sides from the continent have ever progressed to the quarter-finals; Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010.
Ghana will be hoping to progress from the group stage at this year’s tournament.
Black Stars exited the group stage at the 2014 edition in Brazil after a slow start to the tournament.
Ghana are making a record 4th World Cup appearance in Qatar having previously played in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 in Germany, South Africa and Brazil respectively.
Belgium “need to improve” if they are to stand a realistic chance of going deep at the 2022 World Cup, according to defender Toby Alderweireld.
It was Alderweireld’s long pass that created the only goal of the game for Michy Batshuayi as Belgium struggled to make much headway against an athletic and well-drilled Canada team.
Alphonso Davies saw an early penalty saved by Red Devils goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Canada also squandered a host of first-half chances as Belgium held on to a precious win to take an early lead at the top of Group F.
Alderweireld said: “We didn’t play our best game, but we fought hard, especially in the second half and it’s better to improve things with three points in the bag than no points.
“We weren’t good enough on the ball, we didn’t create the right spaces and in the second half we could have hurt them a lot more. Our last pass has to be a lot better.
“The first step is to get through but we need to improve.”
Alderweireld’s sentiments were shared by fellow defender Timothy Castagne, who felt Canada’s no-fear approach made them tricky opponents.
The Leicester City full-back said: “We were expecting that, it’s not easy to play against.
“We tried to play through them but we could not find the free men. When we did, we had some good opportunities but couldn’t finish them.
“We can thank Thibaut for keeping us in the game first half. After that we defended pretty strong together, which hasn’t always been our strongest suit so that’s good.”
With Argentina and Germany having already lost in Qatar to unheralded opponents, Castagne was just pleased Belgium avoided joining the ranks of beaten favourites, adding: “If you get the win, you get confidence even if it wasn’t our best game.
“Some big teams have lost so it’s good to get off to a good start points-wise.”
While Belgium were relieved, it was a night of pride and frustration for Canada. They emerged with enormous credit, inspired by the shrewd leadership of head coach John Herdman, but will rue their profligacy in front of goal.
Defender Steven Vitoria said: “We deserved more against a world-class side. When we play like that we’ll be a lot closer to winning than anything else. It was a fantastic performance but at this level you have to get the win.
“The intention is to be fearless on the biggest stage, this is a new Canada and we gave that statement to the world. But no excuses, we’re here to win and we’re not satisfied.”
Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus are set to named in Ghana’s starting XI to face Portugal in their 2022 World Cup opener today.
The duo missed Black Stars’ friendly win over Switzerland for various reasons, however, they are expected to named in coach Otto Addo’s line-up.
Kudus has been in fine form for Ajax this season, primarily playing as a false nine. He has scored 10 goals and provided two assists in 21 appearances.
Partey on the other hand, has been a key cog of Mikel Arteta’s side this season, making 15 appearances and scoring two goals in the process.
Black Stars will begin their campaign against Portugal on Thursday before taking on South Korea and Uruguay in the other Group H matches.
Ghana are making a record 4th World Cup appearance in Qatar having previously played in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 in Germany, South Africa and Brazil respectively.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup takes place between November 20 and December 18, 2022.
Only three sides from the continent have ever progressed to the quarter-finals; Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010.
Ghana will be hoping to progress from the group stage at this year’s tournament.
Black Stars exited the group stage at the 2014 edition in Brazil after a slow start to the tournament.
Chinese state media have given huge attention to the World Cup this week, but the matches are fuelling frustrations that people in the country are being left out of the celebrations.
On top of China’s men’s national team not qualifying for the event, scenes of maskless celebrations and raucous gatherings in Qatar have irritated viewers, who have been discouraged from gathering to watch the games.
Many have used the World Cup to complain online about China’s existing strategies. The country maintains a zero-Covid policy, where entire communities are locked down over single cases of the virus, in order to prevent it from spreading.
China is currently experiencing its worst outbreak in six months, and localised lockdowns have surged over the last couple of weeks. In the past 24 hours, China has recorded more than 28,000 new cases; these are in every single provincial-level region.
Football is very popular in China. President Xi Jinping is known for being a lover of the sport, and he has spoken previously of it being a dream for the country to win the World Cup.
As a result, matches are being shown on national broadcaster CCTV, and state media have sought to amplify China’s “presence”. The Global Times has reported on how China-made products “ranging from buses to the [Lusail] stadium, and even air conditioning units are well represented at the event”.
Leading outlets such as CCTV have also promoted the presence of Chinese flagbearers at the opening ceremony, and how two giant pandas arrived in Qatar to “meet” visitors arriving for the event.
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, A child plays with one of the Chinese giant pandas given to Qatar to mark the start of the World Cup
But it is evident that Covid-19 has put a damper on the celebrations. In major cities, outbreaks have resulted in non-essential businesses once again closing, and people being urged to limit their movements.
With no bars to go to, the Global Times newspaper says some fans are “choosing to watch the games at home with their families”. Others have also reportedly taken to camping sites.
Flights between Qatar and China also remain severely limited for those hoping to watch the event in person.
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, This was the scene in a sparsely filled pub in Shanghai for the opening ceremony of the tournament
Many are feeling acute isolation watching this year’s event.
An open letter questioning the country’s continued zero-Covid policies and asking if China was “on the same planet” as Qatar quickly spread on mobile messenger WeChat on Tuesday, before being censored.
Comments on the Twitter-like Weibo social network are rife from viewers who speak about how watching this year’s matches is making them feel divided from the rest of the world.
Some speak of their perception that it is “weird” to see hundreds of thousands of people gathering, without wearing masks or needing to show evidence of a recent Covid-19 test. “There are no separate seats so people can maintain social distance, and there is nobody dressed in white and blue [medical] garb on the sidelines. This planet has become really divided.”
“On one side of the world, there is the carnival that is the World Cup, on the other are rules not to visit public places for five days,” one says.
Some say they have had difficulty explaining to their children why the scenes from the World Cup are so different to those people face at home.
There are many in China, though, who have been critical of countries overseas opening up while the World Health Organization still calls the Covid-19 virus an “acute global emergency”.
However, there is no end in sight to China’s existing measures. This week, the National Health Commission spokesman “warned against any slacking in epidemic prevention and control” and urged “more resolute and decisive measures” to bring cases under control.
Local governments in major cities have reintroduced mass testing and travel restrictions and ultimately delivered a message that people should try to stay at home.
But after three years of such measures, people are frustrated, resulting in protests in the last month in both the cities of Guangzhou and Zhengzhou.
Fans gathered in Tunis Tuesday (Nov to watch the national football team kick off their World Cup tournament. The Carthage Eagles will face Australia Saturday (Nov 26).
Tunisia held European Championship semifinalist Denmark to a 0-0 draw.
Football lovers were over the moon.
”We didn’t play badly. We were able to score, but the referee canceled a penalty kick for us”, Charfeddine Ben Osman passionately explains.
“We did a good job. Now, we have to do more against France and Australia. I hope God will be with us. Only make us happy in this country.”
Despite the draw at the Education City Stadium in Qatar, both teams produced 13 shots with several goal chances. And they each secure a precious point in group D. France is leading with 3 points after a win against Australia.
“How courageous, how strong, how willing they were!”, this other Tunisian supporter exclaimed.
“This is the determination that we want. This is the strength of the Tunisian players that we want. That’s why all the world is talking about us. These players are the “Italian-Arab “players. We have the strongest determination and will in the Arab world. With this determination, we will win,” Oussama Dridi predicted.
Before a stadium filled almost entirely with Tunisia’s red-clad supporters, midfielder AĂŻssa LaĂŻdouni set the tone in the very first minute when he stripped emblematic Denmark playmaker, Christian Eriksen of the ball, with an aggressive sliding tackle â then stood up and pumped his arms menacingly, gesturing to the crowd to get even more fired up.
Tunisia likely deserved more but an expert save shortly before halftime by goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel helped Denmark preserve the draw.
Having already gone down to the grass after Tunisia broke through the defense.
Assuming his customary playmaker position, Dane Christian Eriksen produced a dangerous long-distance shot on goal in the second half that Tunisia goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen had to bat away.
And on the ensuing corner, Denmark hit the post.
After a lack of atmosphere at several of the opening matches, the huge number of Tunisian fans inside Education City Stadium made it feel like a home match for the North African team.
The fans chanted, banged drums, and blew air horns when their squad had the ball â then hissed and whistled loudly whenever Denmark had possession.
Tunisia seeks to reach the knockout stage for the first time in its sixth World Cup appearance.
Harry Kane looks set to be available for England’s next World Cup encounter with the United States after Jordan Pickford confirmed the Three Lions captain had trained with the rest of the squad.
The Three Lions’ star striker was replaced by Callum Wilson during the 6-2 opening win against Iran on Monday and was subsequently sent for a scan on his ankle.
Kane’s importance to Gareth Southgate’sset-up has been illustrated over back-to-back tournaments, having won the Golden Boot at Russia 2018 and helped lead England to the Euro 2020 final last year.
Fears that he could miss Friday’s Group B encounter with the USA look to have been dispelled by Pickford, however, who confirmed the Tottenham forward had been going through drills with his team-mates.
“I think he’s good,” the goalkeeper stated. “[He’s] probably a bit sore, but he’s out on the grass with us today. That’s good, he’s our captain and he’s fine yeah.
“Everyone gave their all when he came off, Callum came on got the assist for Jack’s [Grealish] goal and played well. Everyone’s training well and working hard. Everyone’s here for a reason to play football.
“Harry is an unbelievable player. He’s a leader he’s the captain, and we all look up for him. But there’s also opportunities for other lads as well.
Kane failed to find the back of the net during his side’s rampant opening victory, but could yet exceed Wayne Rooney’s all-time England goalscorer record over the course of the tournament.
The Three Lions are top of Group B and will effectively qualify for the knockout rounds with a victory over the USAÂ ahead of their final group stage game against Wales on November 29.
Ousmane Dembelesays he has “matured” as a person and a player since France last the World Cup in 2018, following a victorious start to their title defence against Australia.
The Barcelona winger started as Didier Deschamps’ side bounced back from an early Craig Goodwin finish to win 4-1 in Al Wakrah, thanks to an Olivier Giroud double and goals from Adrien Rabiot and Kylian Mbappe.
Having been an unused substitute four years ago as Les Bleus beat Croatia in the final in Russia, Dembele is looking to play his part in what he hopes to be a successive World Cup triumph.
With his Blaugrana form having turned a corner after a prolonged saga over his future at the club, he feels he is in a stronger place to contribute now for the national team at Qatar 2022.
“There has been three difficult seasons with Barcelona,” he stated. “When you look at the first two games [I played in] 2018 and this year there is a lot of difference.
“I have matured. I didn’t have a healthy lifestyle as you can imagine, [though]Â it wasn’t a party! But I’m a little older now, [at]Â 25.”
2 – France have scored 2+ headed goals in a World Cup game for the first time since the 1998 final against Brazil. Strong. #FRAAUSpic.twitter.com/mdIAahajfG
France’s recovery ensured they dodged an upset against Australia, but other heavyweight favourites have been less fortunate so far at the World Cup.
Argentina were stunned by lowly Saudi Arabia, while Germany, looking to recover from a chastening campaign in Russia, failed to stop a comeback from Japan.
Dembele says it leaves a warning that no match is easy at Qatar 2022, and that bigger sides write off theoretical underdogs at their peril.
“There are no small teams,” he added. “Everyone knows how to play football, how to work on tactics. We saw that with Saudi Arabia.
“When you lower the intensity, you get trapped. But with our team, if we put all the ingredients together, we will not have to worry.”
France are next in action when they play Denmark in Group D on November 26, before their final group stage match against Tunisia four days later.
Rodrygo is confident he can deliver for Brazil at the World Cup as he looks to bring an end to 20 years of “suffering”.
The South American giantsopen their campaign on Thursday against Serbia and are among the favourites in Qatar as they seek to end two decades of dominance from European nations.
Having triumphed in 2002, Brazil have since been knocked out at the quarter-finals in three of the last four tournaments, while being hammered 7-1 by Germany at the semi-final stage on home soil in 2014.
At 21, Rodrygo is too young to remember the last triumph by the five-time winners but has experienced his fair share of pain as a supporter and set his sights on involvement in Qatarfollowing Brazil’s defeat to Belgium four years ago.
“Man, we’ve been suffering for 20 years. I was crying when we lost in 2006,” he wrote for the Player’s Tribune.
“In 2010, I was in Osasco seeing people paint the streets green and yellow. Nobody was working. School? Forget it. It’s not that I skipped school. There was no school. Even the teachers had fled.
“In 2014, I watched it with my dad in Minas Gerais. I prefer not to talk about it. I’m not even going to say the result.
“The loss to Belgium in 2018, I don’t ever want to have that feeling again. After the game I sent a message to my dad. Â ‘Now we have to train, because in the next one I’ll be there.’
“I know in Brazil nobody is guaranteed a place in the squad, right? Nobody. I hadn’t even made my senior debut. Â But could you blame me? I was the kid with a dream and a fake Selecao shirt.
“Words have power. Man, I’m living proof. This World Cup, I’m here and I see myself deciding games for Brazil.
“I just hope that this dream I’m living goes on forever. I don’t ever want to get used to it. I don’t ever want to wake up.”
After taking on Serbia, Brazil also face Switzerland and Cameroon in Group G.
Ghana skipper, Andre Ayew is privileged to heading for his third World Cup in Qatar which commenced on Sunday, November 20, 2022.
The 32-year-old is one of the two players out the 26 called-up by coach Otto Addo to have played at the global showpiece.
This will be Andreâs third World Cup, having featured in the 2010 and 2014 editions.
“Every tournament is different and every tournament has it own excitement. The World Cup is the one that we always dream to play as young kids so for me itâs unbelievable for me to be here to play a third World Cup,” Ayew said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Portugal game on Thursday.
âBut most important is to be able to perform on the pitch individually and collectively.â
Ayew has been a full international for Ghana since 2008 and has earned over 100 caps.
At youth level, he starred for and captained the under-20 team that won both the 2009 African Youth Championship and the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
He has played in seven Africa Cup of Nations (2008, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021), helping them finish runners-up in 2010 and 2015, and was top goalscorer at the latter tournament.
Japan staged a sensational fightback to deal Germany a shock 2-1 defeat in their World Cup opener as Bundesliga players Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano came off the bench to stun the four-time winners.
Germany made headlines by covering their mouths in a pre-match protest against FIFA’s decision to ban Manuel Neuer from wearing the OneLovearmband, and they looked set to make a positive start in Group E when Ilkay Gundogan converted a first-half penalty.
Hansi Flick’s side then squandered several golden opportunities to put the game to bed before Freiburg forward Doan made them pay from a rebound 15 minutes from time.
With Germany chasing a winner, there was to be one final twist as Asano raced onto a long ball before firing beyond Neuer, leaving Die Mannschaft under huge pressure ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Spain.
Germany were saved by the offside flag when Daizen Maeda prodded Daichi Kamada’s early cross home, but Japan were masters of their own downfall when Flick’s team went ahead after 33 minutes.
Goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda committed a clumsy foul on David Raum to hand Germany a spot-kick, which Gundogan coolly converted.
A VAR review denied Germany a second as Kai Havertz tapped home from an offside position after Gonda saved from Joshua Kimmich, before Gundogan hit the base of the post after the restart.
Gonda denied Gnabry three times in quick succession as Germany continued to create chances, but Japan stunned them at the other end as Doan capitalised on a rebound to fire into the roof of the net.
Japan completed the turnaround with seven minutes left as Niklas Sule’s woeful positioning allowed Asano to stay onside from a long ball, and he hammered beyond Neuer to seal a famous win.
What does it mean? Germany under pressure after collapse
The identity of Germany’s second opponents in Group E â Luis Enrique’s Spain â made a positive result in Wednesday’s opener crucial, but a combination of dire defending and efficient attacking play from Japan cost them three points.
Germany’s loss was their first after building a half-time lead at the World Cup since 1978 (a 3-2 loss to Austria), snapping a run of 21 such games without defeat.
Flick’s team also became the first side since records began to lose a World Cup game when accumulating over three expected goals (xG).
Started from the Bochum now he’s here
Bochum winger Asano has failed to hit the net in six Bundesliga appearances this season, but the 28-year-old changed the game following his 57th-minute introduction at the Khalifa International Stadium.
Despite his limited time on the field, Asano led his team-mates for shots (five) and touches in the Germany area (five), and he showed no sign of nerves when one-on-one with Neuer as he fired Japan to victory.
Blue Samurai strike on the break
Germany were always expected to dictate the tempo in their first major tournament outing under former Bayern Munich coach Flick, and Japan were limited to just 26.2 per cent possession on Wednesday.
That figure is the second-lowest recorded by the winning team in a World Cup match, with South Korea having just 26 per cent when they recorded their own upset against Germany in 2018.
Key Opta Facts:
– Japan picked up their first victory against Germany (D1 L1), with nine of the 10 total goals in this fixture being scored in the second half.
– Germany have lost a World Cup game in which they led at half time for the first time since 1978 (2-3 vs Austria), having gone unbeaten in their previous 21 such matches before today.
– Japan came from behind to win a World Cup match for the very first time, having drawn two and lost 11 of their 13 matches when they had trailed before today.
– Having lost their opening game at just one of their first 18 World Cup tournaments (W13 D4), Germany have lost their first game at each of the last two World Cups.
What’s next?
Germany face Spain in a crucial Group E match on Sunday, while Japan take on Costa Rica on the same day.
Germany’s players protested FIFA’s decision to ban Manuel Neuer from wearing the OneLove armband by covering their mouths ahead of their World Cup opener, as the team declared: “Denying us the armband is the same as denying us a voice.”
Germany were among several European sides to commit to wearing the armband in order to promote an anti-discriminatory message in Qatar, where same-sex relationships are criminalised.
However, the teams backed down ahead of their opening World Cup fixtures after being threatened with sporting sanctions by FIFA, which German Football Association (DFB) president Bernd Neuendorf suggested were more significant than a yellow card for the affected captains.
After taking to the pitch for their Group E meeting with Japan at the Khalifa International Stadium, Germany’s players covered their mouths for the traditional pre-match photo to protest FIFA’s handling of the row.
The team subsequently released a statement via social media, which read: “We wanted to use our captain’s armband to take a stand for values that we hold in the Germany national team: diversity and mutual respect.
“Together with other nations, we wanted our voice to be heard.
“It wasn’t about making a political statement â human rights are non-negotiable. That should be taken for granted, but it still isn’t the case. That’s why this message is so important to us.
“Denying us the armband is the same as denying us a voice. We stand by our position.”
Germany captain Neuer was seen to have his armband checked by referee Ivan Barton Cisneros ahead of Wednesday’s game.
Die Mannschaft also warmed up for the match wearing training shirts featuring rainbow-coloured trim in another apparent show of support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Gareth Southgate is worried and demanded “clarity” after expressing concerns England could fall foul to refereeing decisions after a pre-World Cup briefing.
FIFA referees committee chairman Pierluigi Collina used an example clip of Kalvin Phillips blocking an opponent at a free-kick to help create space for Harry Maguire to score in last year’s 5-0 win over Albania.
The video was used to brief referees, competing nations and the media, on how to spot foul play from set-piece situations and seemingly worked against England in Monday’s 6-2 thrashing of Iran.
Southgate admitted he fears England may fall on the wrong side of decisions after Collina’s briefing, citing concerns after a “definite penalty” on Maguire.
“What worries me is we were used in an example in the referees’ video,” the England manager said.
“What we were shown, the incident in the first half [with Maguire] would be a definite penalty.
“Maybe there’s a shirt pull [for the Iran penalty] â we’ve got to be better on that â but I’m a bit worried we were the example shown.
“Then to get a decision as happened in the first half, we need some clarification really as to how it’s going to be.”
Southgate recalled the Football Association being able to discuss penalty decisions with match officials after England’s 2-1 win over Tunisia at Russia 2018.
“It happened in Russia and we’ve got to have that dialogue with FIFA [again],” he added.
“We want clarity. Otherwise, we don’t know where we stand. Goals are going in and we don’t know whether they stand or not. The bit that worries me is we were the example shown.”
England face the United States in their next Group B game on Friday before a clash with Wales four days later.
The English- and Spanish-language broadcasts of the United States’ opening 1-1 tie with Wales at the World Cup was watched by 11.7 million people, a 5% increase over the Americans’ 2-1 victory over Ghana at the 2014 tournament.
The game, which began at 2 p.m., was watched by 8,306,000 people on Fox and 3.4 million on Telemundo, Telemundo digital, and Peacock, all of which are owned by Comcast Corp.’s NBCUniversal.
The match was watched by 563,000 people on streaming, according to Fox, the network’s highest group-stage viewership since taking over U.S. English-language rights for the 2018 tournament. The most-watched Spanish-language World Cup match received 1.0 million views on Telemundo and Peacock.
The 2014 United States opening in Brazil, which began on a Saturday in mid-June, was seen by 11.1 million on ESPN and 4.8 million on Univision.
Clint Dempsey gave the USA a lead just 34 seconds into the match in the 2014 game, but Ghana appeared to salvage a point in the 82nd minute when Andre Ayew beat Tim Howard.
John Anthony Brooks was the hero, in the end, scoring the winner in the 86th minute after he was left unmarked on a late corner kick.
Croatia’s World Cup exploits at Russia 2018 remain “unforgettable” for Luka Modric but the veteran midfielder wants to put those memories aside in Qatar.
Modric claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2018 after guiding Croatia to the final of FIFA’s top tournament, which ended in defeat to France, while winning a third consecutive Champions League with Real Madrid.
The 37-year-old and coach Zlatko Dalic are two familiar faces from the Russian run in an otherwise much-changed squad.
Modric was named Golden Ball winner at the last World Cup, given to the tournament’s best player, but wants to put previous success behind him ahead of Wednesday’s Group F opener against Morocco.
“Definitely, what we’ve been through in 2018 in Russia is unforgettable and indelible in my mind,” the Madrid legend said on Tuesday.
“Others can continue speaking about it but we need to put it aside and focus on what’s ahead.
“Many players at the 2018 World Cup in Russia are not here, we have new players, new quality young players with fresh blood and energy. This is a new tournament and we have to look at it that way.”
Croatia have lost their opening game in three of their five World Cup appearances, with the exceptions being 1998 when they reached the semi-final and 20 years later where they made the showpiece game.
Dalic’s side appear in good form after coming through qualifying without any real scares and topping a Nations League group that included France and Denmark.
While Croatia have won each of their last five games, Modric insisted Dalic’s men will show respect to Morocco, who are ranked 22nd in the world by FIFA.
“We have to maintain a modest attitude and not make big promises or make great claims that we’ll achieve something,” he added.
“I’m prepared physically and I’m in great shape. I’m healthy but drawing comparisons with other World Cups makes no sense. It’s important to feel prepared and ready to win.”
If Croatia can go one better than 2018, Modric vowed to call an end to his illustrious international career.
“If this happens it would be great. I’ll retire if we win,” he concluded.
Croatiaâs bid to emulate their World Cup exploits of four years ago began in stuttering fashion with a frustrating Group F stalemate against Morocco.
The 2018 runners-up controlled possession at Al Bayt Stadium but lacked a cutting edge in a forgettable 0-0 draw against opposition with just two World Cup victories in their history.
Nikola Vlasic went close to an opener in first-half added time, while Noussair Mazraoui and Achraf Hakimi threatened winners for Morocco in the second period.
The result leaves both sides with hope of reaching the knockout stages â albeit with plenty to do â in a group also containing Belgium and Canada.
Croatiaâs starting XI contained five players who were involved in their 4-2 World Cup final defeat to France in Russia, including influential captain Luka Modric.
Manager Zlatko Dalic also remained from that match in Moscow and saw his side struggle to create in a tight, uninspiring opening period largely devoid of clear openings.
Tottenhamâs Ivan Perisic lashed narrowly over from distance, while Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech wastefully fired a well-positioned free-kick straight into the wall at the other end.
Croatia saved their best first-half attempts for added time.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was finally tested when he repelled a close-range poke from Vlasic with a thigh, before Modric smashed over just before the whistle.
Walid Regragui only took charge of the Atlas Lions three months before the tournament and was yet to see his new side concede a goal.
They remained resilient at the back after the restart and also improved from an attacking perspective, with Bayern Munich full-back Mazraoui, who was later stretchered off injured, seeing a header pushed away by Dominik Livakovic.
Paris St Germain defender Hakimi then had a superb long-range effort denied by Croatia keeper Livakovic after being teed up by Ziyech at a free-kick before the contest faded away into the third goalless draw in the competitionâs last four games.
Croatia continue their campaign against Canada on Sunday afternoon, with Morocco facing Belgium earlier that day.
Son Heung-min is comfortable having to wear a protective mask in order to play against Uruguay, with South Korea coach Paulo Bento confident his star player is fit.
Tottenham forward Son sustained a fractured eye socket in Spurs’ clash with Marseille at the start of November, casting doubt over his participation in Qatar.
However, he was named in Bento’s squad and has returned to training wearing a mask in order to shield the injury from further damage.
Korea open their Group H campaign against Uruguay on Thursday, and Bento has confidence that Son has fully recovered, though conceded there is an element of risk.
“Sonny can play, yes. He will be able to play,” Bento said.
“I think the fact that he would be wearing a mask is not an inconvenience for him, it’s rather natural.
“We have stuck to the plan since we arrived here, also the way we integrated him into our group shows that it has been natural, except in the final training stages.
“We will see how it will be. Our hope is that he will feel comfortable to the greatest extent possible, and we will use the best strategy so he can feel at ease during the game.
“He knows and we know that we cannot rule out any risks.”
Son is Korea’s joint-leading World Cup goalscorer, having scored three times in the competition, and he is aiming to become only the second player from the nation to score in three separate editions of the tournament after Park Ji-sung.
While Korea are heavily reliant on Son to lead their attack, Uruguay are blessed with three exceptional forwards in the form of veteran campaigners Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, along with Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez.
“With our strikers, our plan is to put a good performance in the first game, that’s for sure. We are very much excited with what we can produce,” said Uruguay coach Diego Alonso.
“We have peace of mind because we have goalscoring opportunities, flexibility not only with our strikers, we are good defensively and this will make us a very competitive team.”
While Alonso would not apply extra pressure on his team, captain Diego Godin says Uruguayan players always have “big shoes to fill”.
“The qualification round had ups and downs but we achieved our goal,” he said.
“The World Cup is an objective but it is still far away, but this history and this shirt requires us to win. We have very big shoes to fill when we are representing our country.”
Korea boss Bento, meanwhile, also stressed that Suarez, Cavani and Nunez are not the only players his team have to worry about at Education City Stadium.
“I would say Federico Valverde is a fantastic player,” he replied when asked about the Real Madrid midfielder.
“Together with [Kevin] De Bruyne he’s one of the best midfielders in the world, a player who can actually win the game.
“Collectively they are very strong, and we have to cope with the power they have as well as the individual skill sets.”
FIFA’s disciplinary committee has opened an investigation over alleged homophobic chanting from Ecuador fans during their opening World Cup match against Qatar.
The South Americans were 2-0 victors against the hosts on Sunday, where it has been reported homophobic chants were directed towards rivals Chile.
Chile had accused Ecuador of fielding an ineligible player, Byron Castillo, during qualification for the tournament, with the 27-year-old left out of Ecuador’s squad to prevent any further controversy.
Ecuador retained their spot at the World Cup but were issued a fine and handed a points deduction for their qualifying campaign for the 2026 tournament.
The are now also facing a FIFA investigation.
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Ecuadorian Football Association due to chants by Ecuadorian supporters during the Qatar v Ecuador FIFA World Cup match played on 20 November,” a statement read.
“The proceedings were opened on the basis of article 13 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
LGBTQ+ rights have been at the forefront of the World Cup as homosexuality is illegal in Qatar.
Seven nations, including England and Germany, had planned for their captains to wear the OneLove armband during the tournament.
However, the decision from each of the countries was taken not to do so after FIFA threatened to book captains if they broke regulations and made their own statements on social issues, rather than following guidelines from the game’s governing body.
One of the most memorable moments at the Mundial was the handball against Ghana by Uruguay striker Luis Suarez.
The ball was on its way to an open net. Without a doubt, that was going to be a goal for Ghana. And not just any objective. This one, in the last minute of extra time in their 2010 quarterfinal against Uruguay, would make the Black Stars the first African team to reach a World Cup semifinal, much alone one on South African soil.
Luis Suarez, a forward for Uruguay, had to make a choice as he was on the goal line. His decision will abruptly halt Ghana’s progress. Suarez hit the ball out of the air with his hands knowing full well that he would be sent off.
Suarez calculated in a split second that the only chance his team had of remaining in the game was to avoid giving up the goal at all costs, even if that meant sacrificing himself and forcing Ghana to earn a penalty kick.
From the spot, Asamoah Gyan missed. After winning the subsequent shootout, Uruguay progressed to the semifinals.
The Black Stars of Ghana will clash with Uruguay again at the 2022 World Cup in Group H on 2nd December. The massive encounter will be played at the Al Janoub Stadium.
Ghanaians are seeking revenge against Uruguay at the Mundial in Qatar and have urged the Black Stars to focus on beating the Sky Blues.
Didier Deschamps has defended his decision to substitute Olivier Giroud in France’s World Cup win over Australia, delaying his bid to become France’s all-time leading goalscorer outright.
Giroud equalled Thierry Henry’s record of 51 goals for France with a brace on Tuesday, helping Les Bleus fight back to post a 4-1 win in their Group D contest.
However, the striker was replaced by Marcus Thuram in the closing stages, meaning he will have to wait until Saturday’s meeting with Denmark for another chance to seize the record for himself.
Deschamps was defensive when asked why he withdrew Giroud in his post-match press conference, responding: “Would you like to take my place and be the coach?
“Olivier Giroud did what he does best, he scored goals. You have to manage a lot of things as a coach.
“We have another match in four days and we’d already scored four goals, so sometimes it’s good to give someone else a chance and give him a rest.
“You tend to talk about records a lot, he tends to focus on what he does on the pitch.
“He was very effective tonight, which is great for him, he’s useful with the way he links up with the other attackers in our team.”
51 – Olivier Giroud has scored his 51st goal for France, joining Thierry Henry as France’s topscorer. Olive. #FRAAUSpic.twitter.com/mLwtMFr4ik
As well as claiming a slice of France history, Giroud â aged 36 years and 53 days â became the second-oldest player to score a World Cup brace, after Roger Milla did so twice at the 1990 tournament when 38 years old.
France initially looked unlikely to make a positive start to their World Cup defence, with Adrien Rabiot having to cancel out Craig Goodwin’s opener before Giroud took centre stage.
Deschamps was pleased with Les Bleus’ response to going behind after witnessing other sides fail to fight back in the tournament’s opening round of fixtures.
“I think we began the match well, we linked up well in the first few minutes but we let in a goal which we should have avoided,” Deschamps said.
“It was tough, but in the second half we showed a lot more confidence, we created a lot more chances and scored four goals, so of course that is good. We could have scored more, but it’s a very good beginning.
“The first match is always vital, so I have to congratulate the team. We saw some earlier games where teams were unable to respond, but we did. We showed strength of character.”
Tuesday began with one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history as Saudi Arabia beat Argentina 2-1, but Deschamps said that surprise result had no bearing on France’s approach.
“The players saw that match, but you have to focus on the opponent that’s in front of you,” he added.
1 – France đ«đ· is the first reigning champion to win its World Cup debut since Brazil đ§đ· in 2006, registering the biggest ever MD1 win by a reigning champion in the competition. Solid.#FRA#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/9HkuvxrBYm
The best players across the globe will soon swap their club kits and report for international duty. To represent their countries in a fight for the greatest prize in all of soccer: the FIFA World Cup. Yes, the worldâs marquee sporting event has arrived. Weâre a few days away from kicking off the first ever World Cup during the winter. While most arenât the biggest soccer aficionados, everyone tunes in to the World Cup in some capacity. From watching the matches, to keeping tabs on headlines and consuming all the content, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar is finally upon us. Here is a list of some of the players, not in order, that you should watch for this tournament.
Lionel Messi – Argentina
Leo Messi accepting defeat at the 2014 World Cup Final. Image via Getty
Touted as one of the greatest to most and the GOATto many, PSGâs Lionel Messi goes into the World Cup in fine form with the best Argentina side since they made a run to the Final in 2014. In what is likely his final chance to add a World Cup trophy to all his accolades and silverware, he leads an impressive Argentina team that is on a 35-match unbeaten streak. Considered a dark horse to win the World Cup, this team always has a chance to take it all with Messi dominating the pitch with his brilliance. Expect him to pour everything he has into his final chance at locking up the glory for his country and the undisputed GOAT title.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal
Image via Francois Nel/Getty
Dominating headlines and the sport for well over a decade plus with his talent and charisma, Cristiano Ronaldo enters his final World Cup with a strong Portuguese side. Despite him not being in his best form following a major rift between him and Manchester United to start the club season, this Portugal team is in good position to make a deep run. Ronaldo is always a threat to score goals and with one of the best teams heâs lined up with in this tournament you can expect their talisman to turn it on for his country. Like Messi, his GOAT status can be secured if the Seleção das Quinas lift the World Cup Trophy in December especially after a rough stretch with Man United.
Neymar Jr. – Brazil
Image via Getty/Michael Reaves
As one of the if not the most exciting players to watch for club and country, Neymar leads Brazil into the 2022 World Cup as the favorites to win it all. He is in the form of his life at the moment, netting goals and assists for PSG with relative ease. While the favorite for the World Cup has never won it all, he looks to add to his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. If you thought his Paris Saint Germain team was stacked, the Brazil squad has the talent to win it all and then some but he is undoubtedly the best player on his team and possibly the entire tournament this year. He should be an easy favorite for the Golden Boot this tournament.
Kylian Mbappe – France
Image via Getty/Ryan Pierse
With news of Karim Benzema picking up an injury just before their first group stage game, Kylian Mbappe becomes even more important for the reigning champions. Theyâve suffered a handful of injuries and losing the Ballon dâOr Benz is huge but Mbappe has proven before he can carry a team with his pace, ability, and skill. The young stud has a clinical precision for goal and is considered one of the best when it comes to burying it in the net. Erling Haaland has recently taken the mantle for best young player in the world with a scorching start for Man City but with a strong run for France he can easily claim that back. Itâs incredibly hard to repeat in the World Cup yet if Mbappe is in form there is no stopping his prowess on the pitch.
Harry Kane – England
Image via Getty/Michael Regan
Despite never securing a trophy in his entire footballing career for club and country, Harry Kane enters the 2022 World Cup with one of his best chances. This English national team is one of their strongest sides in quite some time and the Tottenham Spurs striker should relish many goal scoring opportunities to put on for his country. Could it be coming home? That will rely on Kane putting in the finest performances of his career with a team that continues to ascend the national team ranks. He will be extremely important for England and could challenge for the Golden Boot if they make a deeper run into the knockout stages.
Kevin De Bruyne – Belgium
Image via Getty/Dean Mouhtaropoulos
Considered the best midfielder in the game at the moment and he hasnât even reached his peak yet. Manchester City and Belgiumâs KDB is a boss on the pitch. One of the best international teams of the decade despite not winning any major trophies, his team made an epic run to the Semis in the 2018 World Cup but lost to Croatia. Expect him to control the game for his side as the best player on the team and push the Belgians forward to and deep into the knockout stages. He is a must watch talent and one of the finest players in the entire sport.
Christian Pulisic – USA
Image via Getty/Silvestre Szpylma
Captain America debuts in his first World Cup as the USMNT returns to international football after missing out on the biggest stage in 2018. At this stage in his career, Pulisic is still fighting for first team minutes with Chelsea but he knows how to make an impact in his limited time. Yet while he plays international football, Pulisic is their most important player. Heâs the leader and arguably the best player that the United States has ever produced to play the beautiful game. Yes, heâs already up there with Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Will he add to his legacy? Team USA will need him firing on all cylinders to make a deeper run with their young squad and heâs more than capable as he suits up for the red, white and blue.
Pedri – Spain
Image via Getty/Fran Santiago
One of the gameâs youngest stars suits up for one of the youngest Spanish sides the country has ever fielded for a World Cup. Arriving in Barcelona two years ago and breaking out for the club in such a short time frame, Spainâs wunderkind is oozing with talent. Despite being only 19 years old, he finds himself as his teamâs most important player and one of the critical pieces to their success during this WC. Claiming both the 2021 Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy, both awarded to the best player under 21, the kid has a balled out in any competition he competes in. He will shine and continue to ascend the ranks as one of the best in the game.
Federico Valverde – Uruguay
Image via Getty/Alberto Valdez
Coming off a breakout season at Real Madrid where heâs pivoted from the midfield to the right wing for Real Madrid, it seems Fede is tapping into a new level. Heâs a fixture on the reigning UCL Champs clubâs starting XI and now has found himself banging screamers into the net to kick off the new season. The ever so versatile player continues to become more well-rounded with experience and will be extremely important for a true dark horse in Uruguay to win it all. Finding himself as a scorer only adds to the strong sideâs chances. Look for him to break out on an international level this 2022 World Cup.
Jamal Musiala
Image via Getty
Bayern Munichâs latest phenom looks to take the international stage by storm. Musiala is only 19 years old but has tallied 22 goal contributions, 12 goals and 10 assists, in just 22 games meaning he has a huge impact for Germanyâs biggest football club this season.
While the German international team is relatively experienced, the young yet gifted attacking midfielder can impact the game with just a single touch on the pitch.
He is extremely talented, slicing through opposing defense at will and will be a menace for the opposition to contain.
The World Cup is just about to begin, and to build up to the tournament, we are taking a look at the eight groups playing for a spot in the last 16.
In this article, we are analysing Group H, consisting of Portugal, Uruguay, Ghana and South Korea.
World Cup 2022 Group H: Full analysisÂ
GhanaÂ
Lawrence Ati-Zigi (St Gallen), Danlad Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko), Manaf Nurudeen (Eupen), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Daniel Amartey (Leicester City), Abdul-Rahman Baba (Reading), Alexander Djiku (Racing Strasbourg), Tariq Lamptey (Brighton & Hove Albion), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Denis Odoi (Club Bruges), Mohammed Salisu (Southampton), Alidu Seidu (Clermont), Mohammed Kudus (Ajax), Daniel-Kofi Kyereh (Freiburg), Elisha Owusu (Gent), Thomas Partey (Arsenal), Salis Abdul Samed (Lens), Daniel Afriyie (Hearts of Oak), Andre Ayew (Al Sadd), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), Issahaku Abdul Fatawu (Sporting Lisbon), Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City), Kamal Sowah (Club Bruges), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Rennes), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Analysis â Ghana have a decent squad to compete with, consisting of Thomas Partey, Mo Kudus, Mohammed Salisu and Jordan Ayew among others. As a result, they could provide a tough challenge to the other, bigger teams in the group.
South KoreaÂ
Official South Korea squad for 2022 World Cup. đšđ°đ· #WorldCup2022
Kim Seung-gyu (Al Shabab), Jo Hyeon-woo (Ulsan Hyundai), Song Bum-keun (Jeonbuk Motors), Kim Min-jae (Napoli), Kim Jin-su (Jeonbuk Motors), Hong Chul (Daegu FC), Kim Moon-hwan (Jeonbuk Motors), Yoon Jong-gyu (FC Seoul), Kim Young-gwon (Ulsan Hyundai), Kim Tae-hwan (Ulsan Hyundai), Kwon Kyung-won (Gamba Osaka), Cho Yu-min (Daejon Citizen), Jung Woo-young (Al Sadd), Na Sang-ho (FC Seoul), Paik Seung-ho (Jeonbuk Motors), Son Jun-ho (Shandong Taishan), Song Min-kyu (Jeonbuk Motors), Kwon Chang-hoon (Gimcheon Sangmu), Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur), Lee Jae-sung (Mainz), Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Hwang In-beom (Olympiacos), Jeong Woo-yeong (Freiburg), Lee Kang-in (Real Mallorca), Hwang Ui-jo (Olympiacos), Cho Gue-sung (Jeonbuk Motors)
Analysis â Led by Son Heung-Min and Napoliâs Kim Min Jae, South Korea are heading into the World Cup as one of the underdogs. However, they will have to overcome massive odds in the process.
UruguayÂ
Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray), Sergio Rochet (Nacional), Sebastian Sosa (Independiente), Jose Maria Gimenez (Atletico Madrid), Sebastian Coates (Sporting CP), Diego Godin (Velez Sarsfield), Martin Caceres (LA Galaxy), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona), Guillermo Varela (Flamengo), Jose Luis Rodriguez (Nacional), Mathias Olivera (Napoli), Matias Vina (Roma), Lucas Torreira (Galatasaray), Manuel Ugarte (Sporting CP), Matias Vecino (Lazio), Rodrigo Bentancur (Tottenham Hotspur), Federico Valverde (Real Madrid), Facundo Pellistri (Manchester United), Nicolas De La Cruz (River Plate), Agustin Canobbio (Athletico Paranaense), Facundo Torres (Orlando City), Giorgian De Arrascaeta (Flamengo), Maxi Gomez (Trabzonspor), Luis Suarez (Nacional), Edinson Cavani (Valencia), Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)
Analysis â Uruguay have a very strong chance to make it deep into the competition based on their squad. But, things havenât been clicking for them on the pitch as of late. They will need to get the team on the same page to fend off competition from the rest.
PortugalÂ
If Portugal and Argentina win their groups we could see Messi and Ronaldo play each other in the World Cup final.
Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Patricio (AS Roma), Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Joao Cancelo (Manchester City), Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund), Nuno Mendes (Paris St-Germain), Pepe (Porto), Danilo Pereira (Paris St-Germain), Antonio Silva (Benfica), William Carvalho (Real Betis), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Joao Mario (Benfica), Ruben Neves (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Matheus Nunes (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Otavio (Porto), Joao Palhinha (Fulham), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Vitinha (Paris St-Germain), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Ricardo Horta (SC Braga), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Ramos (Benfica), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Andre Silva (RB Leipzig)
Analysis â Portugal are stacked in every position on the pitch, and will need to showcase their talent to win the group, which they have a very good chance of doing. But the bigger challenge for them will be to try and win the World Cup.
World Cup 2022: Who makes it through from Group H?Â
Portugal and Uruguay would be the obvious choices on paper. However, ruling out South Korea and Ghana will not be a wise choice. Portugal might still have a solid chance to win, but second place is anybodyâs guess.
Portugal defender Ruben Dias has heaped praise on Ghana ahead of their 2022 World Cup opener on Thursday, claiming they are physically a strong team.
Cristiano Ronaldoâs falling out with Manchester United has dominated the build-up to the game which will be played at Doha’s Stadium 974 on Thursday.
Fernando Santos’ side will also face Uruguay and South Korea in the other Group H games as they look to qualify for the round of 16.
“Ghana are physically a strong team, technically as well. They have footballers who are playing at the top level in Europe,” Dias said in a press conference on Tuesday.
Ghana are making a record 4th World Cupappearance in Qatar having previously played in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 in Germany, South Africa and Brazil respectively.
Black Stars will be hoping to progress from the group stage at this year’s tournament.
The West African country exited the group stage at the 2014 edition in Brazil after a slow start to the tournament.
Black Stars have been drawn in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay.
After playing Portugal in their first game at Stadium 974 (Rass Abou Aboud) on Thursday, they will take on South Korea and Uruguay on November 28 and December 2 respectively.
Hugo Lloris fears Lucas Hernandez has suffered an “important injury”, dealing France yet another blow as they bid to defend their World Cup crown.
France began their campaign with a 4-1 win over Australia on Tuesday but were without Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Christopher Nkunku and Karim Benzema, who were all ruled out of the tournament.
And left-back Hernandezwas added to that injury list after he went down in attempting to stop Matthew Leckie’s cross for Australia’s shock opener.
The outlook does not look positive for the Bayern Munich defender, but France captain Lloris hopes his team-mates can rally as they have done before.
“It’s never good to see one of your team-mates leaving the field in that way,” he said. “I believe it’s an important injury.
“He’s not the first one, but we have to continue to look forward. Unfortunately we could not count on him, but we have a team with other players that we trust.
“We have to stay together and keep believing, keep our focus on that.”
Lloris added: “We have important players left on the side for injuries, but luckily we have a lot of talented players in France, players we can trust, because they have the talent, the mentality and the desire to perform at the highest level.
“We try to create something special inside the team day by day. We try to enjoy the moment, not only on the pitch but also off the pitch.
“We have to take it game by game. Obviously it’s a World Cup, there’s no easy games and we have to be ready to face difficulties. When we face difficulties, we have to make sure that everybody raises their level.”
1 – France đ«đ· is the first reigning champion to win its World Cup debut since Brazil đ§đ· in 2006, registering the biggest ever MD1 win by a reigning champion in the competition. Solid.#FRA#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/9HkuvxrBYm
England-based Ghana goalkeeper, Joseph Wollacott safely arrived in Doha, Qatar to join his Black Stars teammates ahead of the game against Portugal on Thursday.
It can be recalled that your most trusted online portal on Monday reported that the Charlton Athletic shot-stopper will be in Qatar for the mundial although he will not feature in any of the matches.
The goalkeeper suffered a finger injury days before Ghana opened camp for the World Cup and hence has been ruled out of the tournament.
His injury came just hours after his rival for the number one jersey in the Ghana side, Richard Ofori, had been ruled out with a knee problem, leaving the Black Stars with a goalkeeping crisis.
St Gallen shot-stopper Lawrence Ati-Zigi is expected to be Ghana’s No.1 at the tournament and was in post during the 2-0 friendly win over in Switzerland last Thursday.
The Ghana FA has made arrangements for him to be part of the squad at the ongoing tournament. He will be with the Black Stars to motivate the team, especially the goalkeepers who are in camp to do the job he would have done if not for his injury.
Ghana is one of five African countries representing the African continent at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars are set to compete in Group H of the group stages of the tournament. In that group, Ghana will battle it out with two-time champions Uruguay, as well as European giants Portugal.
The other group’s opponent is South Korea from Asia.
With the 2022 FIFA World Cup already starting on Sunday, November 20, Ghanaâs Black Stars will play their first match on November 24.
Subsequently, Ghana will take on South Korea on November 28 before finishing the group stages campaign with a rematch against Uruguay.
Lucas Hernandez will miss the rest of the World Cup, and likely the remainder of the season, after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
France were dealt a huge blow by injuries ahead of their campaign in Qatar, which began with a 4-1 rout of Australia on Tuesday.
Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema and Christopher Nkunku were all ruled out before the tournament started, and now Didier Deschamps has lost another key player.
Hernandez suffered the injury nine minutes into the win over Australia, as he went down clutching his right knee after being turned by Matthew Leckie in the build-up to Craig Goodwin’s opening goal.
Deschamps and Hugo Lloris both conceded after the match that it did not look positive for the Bayern Munich defender, and France have now confirmed the 26-year-old’s ruptured his ACL.
Given the extent of his injury, Hernandez will miss a chunk of the rest of the 2022-23 campaign when it resumes after the World Cup.
“Like the whole group, players and staff, I am extremely sorry for Lucas,” said Deschamps.
“We are losing an important element. Lucas is a warrior and I have no doubt that he will do everything possible to return to the game.
“I know him well. Courage, he will have it, that’s for sure. On behalf of the group, I wish him the best possible recovery.”
Garang Kuol became Australia’s youngest World Cup star on Tuesday but noted the “big difference” he must bridge in order to regularly rub shoulders with the likes of Kylian Mbappe.
Kuol, who at 18 years and 68 days old was the ninth-youngest player in the tournament’s history, was brought on as a 73rd-minute substitute moments after the final goal in the Socceroos’ 4-1 opening defeat to holders France.
The highly talented winger â already confirmed as a Newcastle United signing ahead of a January move â enjoyed a few bright touches yet saw a significant gap to his opponents.
Kuol did not start a single A-League game for Central Coast Mariners, although he scored six goals in 326 minutes from the bench.
Meanwhile, Mbappe was France’s star man as they took the title in Russia 2018 four years ago and appears to be in the mood to repeat the feat.
“You could see the level that they’re at,” Kuol said afterwards.
“They’re 6ft 4[in] people who are as quick as me, so there was a big difference between me and some of those players. Only hard work will get me to that level.
“I think it was a good taste to see the level the players are at. Some play in the Premier League, some play in the Champions League, so it was good to get that taste of the level.”
Mbappe in particular was relentless after a slow start had seen Australia lead through Craig Goodwin in the ninth minute.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward scored the third goal before creating the fourth for Olivier Giroud, having also had a role in the second â again scored by Giroud.
Mbappe had 19 touches in the Australia box â the most by any player in a World Cup match since 1970 â and completed three dribbles.
Australia right-back Nathaniel Atkinson endured a torrid time, not helped by the introduction of attacking France left-back Theo Hernandez after his brother Lucas was injured attempting to prevent the Socceroos goal.
Atkinson was dribbled past twice and gave away possession on 12 occasions, including an error leading to France’s second.
“It’s obviously the first time I’ve come up against this type of opposition in my career,” Atkinson said.
“Obviously, I’ve taken full responsibility for the second goal, but the beauty of the tournament is you can’t dwell on it because you’ve got another game to fix it in three days.
“It’s a good experience. It’s an eye-opener. There’s a reason [Mbappe] is earning 200million [Australian] dollars a year and I am where I am, but that’s something to look forward to.
“It’s good to come up against this calibre. You know what to work on. I know what to fix; I’ve played that scenario 50 times over and I could probably come up with 50 different solutions. That’s football. I’m disappointed.
“It’s just the physicality of the guy. The pace… it’s not hidden how quick that guy is â you give him one step and he’s gone.
“As a team, you can always come up with a plan, but sometimes if it’s one-v-one and he gets the better of you, it’s a learning curve.
“You can get your confidence up with getting a few challenges in, but there’s a reason why he’s one of the top three players in the world.”
Australia are not giving up hope, inspired by Saudi Arabia’s sensational defeat of Argentina earlier on Tuesday.
“Anything can happen,” Atkinson added. “You see what Saudi did against Argentina.
“We’ve come up against the world champions, and there’s a reason for that. They’re a good footballing team. We can take confidence from the way we played early on in that game.”
England captain Harry Kane will go for a scan on his ankle ahead of the Three Lions’ next World Cup encounter against the United States.
Kane was brought down in a heavy challenge by Morteza Pouraliganji three minutes into the second half of England’s 6-2 thrashing of Iran on Monday.
After some treatment, the striker picked himself up and continued until the 75th minute, when he was replaced by Newcastle forward Callum Wilson.
Kane was seen limping after the match with his right ankle strapped, though manager Gareth Southgate appeared unworried over the striker’s fitness, saying he was replaced because the game was already won.
But the Tottenham star will now have his injury assessed, causing concern over the talisman’s availability for England’s second Group B fixture against the USA on Friday.
The 29-year-old registered two assists before making way for Wilson as England ran riot against Iran and would be a huge miss for Southgate if his ankle injury proves serious enough to rule him out.
Kane is just two goals away from equalling Wayne Rooney’s 53 goals as the Three Lions’ all-time top scorer.
The Portugal star took aim at manager Erik ten Hag, Unitedâs ownership under the Glazer family, and several other members of the clubâs hierarchy.
âI shouldnât say that [they were trying to get rid of me], I donât know, but yes, I feel betrayed. I felt that some people didnât want me here not only this year, but last year too.â
Asked about his relationship with Ten Hag, Ronaldo replied: âI donât have respect for him because he doesnât show respect for me.
âIf you donât have respect for me, Iâm never going to have respect for you.â
After his scathing comments, Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged a Manchester United future appears unlikely.
Meanwhile, Man Utd say “everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the teamâs progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
Former Black Stars defender Samuel Osei Kuffour has urged the players not to focus on former Manchester United attacker Cristiano Ronaldo. He added that they should rather play as a unit and get a positive result.
Ghana will open their Group H campaign against the European side on Thursday, November 24, 2022, at Stadium 974 in Doha.
Kuffour speaking ahead of the clash said the Black Stars must be worried about the star-studded side.
According to him, the team must play with self-belief and confidence, adding that the Black Stars will be able to beat the Seleção.
âThe Black Stars need to control the game and play to our best,” the former Bayern Munich defender said.
âThey should not think about the best players Portugal has. If we focus on one player, they will surprise us,”
âThey must play collectively as a unit. I know things have changed at the training and I am confident the team will triumph against Portugal,” he added.
The Black Stars, who are making their fourth appearance at the World Cup will also come up against South Korea and Uruguay.
Ghana will be hoping to put up a decent performance in Qatar after exiting the group phase in 2014 in Brazil. The team also missed out on the last edition hosted in Russia in 2018.
The Black Stars of Ghana is in Group H alongside Uruguay, Portugal, and South Korea. Ghana will play Portugal on 24th November at the Stadium 974, South Korea on 28th November at the Education City Stadium, and play their final group game against Uruguay on 2nd December at the Al Janoub Stadium.
Captain of the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo has labelled their 2022 FIFA World Cup Group H opening game against the Black Stars as the most difficult one.
Portugal and Ghana already have a history in the competition and Ronaldo believes that they will face a tougher opponent in the Black Stars just as they did in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Ronaldo urged his teammates to focus on their opening game against the Black Stars and not underrate them because to him the rematch against Ghana is the most difficult in the group.
âI believe our national team has tremendous potential to win the World Cup. We will see. I believe we can. I have that hope, that belief but we must start well against Ghana.”
âBut like these competitions always teach us; we must think calmly. We must think and focus on the first group game. We must think about the Ghana game which is the most difficult one,” Ronaldo said at the pre-match conference on Monday, November 21, 2022.
Ghana and Portugal will have a repeat of their 2014 FIFA World Cup group stage clash in the 2022 edition and the Seleçãos will be counting on their talisman to take them to the promised land.
He also added that he is fit and ready for the World Cup well which might be his last attempt to win the Mundial
“Iâm feeling great, Iâm recovered and Iâm training well and ready to start the World Cup in the best way possible.”
Ronaldo in 2014 scored in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over the Black Stars but exited the tournament from the group phase together with Ghana.
The game between Ghana and Portugal will be played at Stadium 974 on Thursday, November 24, and there will be live commentary on GhanaWeb.
Alphonso Davies has been declared fit by head coach John Herdman for Canada’s clash with Belgium on their return to the World Cup stage.
The Bayern Munich left-back’s participation in Qatar was in doubt after he sustained a hamstring injury against Hertha Berlin on November 5.
Davies sat out Bayern’s final two matches prior to the mid-season break and Herdman said at the weekend he was unsure exactly when the 22-year-old would return.
However, in a huge boost for Canada ahead of Wednesday’s Group F showdown with Belgium at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Herdman has confirmed Davies is ready to feature.
“You’ve just got to go through the algorithms they put in front of you to progress to hit top speed, which he’s hit,” Herdman said at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.
“He’s been clear he wanted to play. He’s been in full training and got that big smile on his face, so that’s great.
“I don’t think there’d be any doubt we’d be starting him, but you’ve got to follow the medical advice. Our goal first and foremost is always the safety of the players.
“As a coach you’re always frustrated when you get the reports in and all the algorithms on returning to play, what they can and can’t do and loadings, et cetera.
“But when you speak to the player you have to look into their eyes and get a sense of what they want, how far they’re willing to push, and you’ve got to ask the questions.
“If not the first game, then what’s the risk for the second game? At the end of the day, he’s fit now, he’s hit his markers, he’s ready to go. He was flying in training yesterday.”
Canada are back at the World Cup following a 36-year absence â the second-longest gap between participations of any nation at this year’s tournament behind only Wales (64 years).
The Reds topped their CONCACAF qualifying group while scoring the most goals in the final round (23) and conceding the fewest (seven).
Herdman also provided positive updates on the fitness of Stephen Eustaquio and Milan Borjan ahead of facing a Belgium side ranked second in FIFA’s world rankings.
“I think we’re in a position now where we can field our strongest team,” he said. “Everyone’s come through training.
“It’s exciting times for us now â the dark clouds have shifted. This is our last training session together and we’ll all be 100 per cent.”
Canada lost their only previous meeting with Belgium 2-0 in an Ottawa friendly 33 years ago.
A bold and brilliant Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the World Cup’s biggest shocks as they came from behind to stun two-time winners Argentina in a fantastic Group C opener in Lusail.
Ranked 51st in the world, Saudi Arabia could have been done and dusted in the first half as Lionel Messi opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Argentina had three goals ruled out for offside.
But Saudi Arabia flipped the game on its head in a stunning 10-minute period after half-time, Saleh Al-Shehri levelling with a low effort and Salem Al Dawsari firing them ahead to spark pandemonium in the stands.
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Having shown their ruthlessness at one end, the Green Falcons demonstrated a ruggedness at the other, holding a stellar Argentina front line at bay to secure only their fourth World Cup win in history and throw the group wide open.
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina came into the tournament among the favourites, on the back of a 36-game unbeaten run that included winning the 2021 Copa America.
They now have it all to do to keep alive their hopes of a first global triumph since 1986 and give Messi a fitting ending to what is very likely his World Cup swansong.
They face Mexico on Saturday, while Saudi Arabia take on Poland.
Memphis Depay was frustrated to be restricted to the role of a substitute in the Netherlands’ World Cup opener, but he is confident of having a greater impact in coming matches.
Depay had been ruled out of Monday’s match against Senegal in Louis van Gaal’s pre-match news conference.
But the Barcelona forward appeared on the bench and was introduced in the final half an hour with the game still goalless.
Although Depay did not get on the scoresheet, he was involved in the build-up to both Oranje goals in a 2-0 win, with Cody Gakpo scoring the first before Davy Klaassen tucked away the rebound from the Netherlands number 10’s shot.
Speaking afterwards, Depay said: “I feel good, I feel good, I feel fit. Obviously a player like me always wants to start from the kick-off, but this was the plan and now we focus on the next game.
“I’m sure that I’ll feel better, and I’ll work hard to find more rhythm. I’m happy that I could do a little bit of a part in 30 minutes today.”
On Gakpo, who benefited from Depay’sabsence and was preferred to Klaassen, he said: “I’m very happy for him. He’s a hard worker, he’s very dedicated in his career. He’s a young baller.
“I’m very happy. He’s a great guy, a young guy, lots to learn, so I’m sure you’ll see more moments like this.”
Despite missing out on the XI, the stoppage-time clincher was also a big moment for Klaassen.
“It’s a dream, of course,” he said. “It’s my first World Cup game, so to score your first World Cup goal and to win… you can’t ask much more.”
98:17 – Davy Klaassen’s goal after 98:17 is the second latest World Cup goal on record (since 1966) excluding extra time, after Mehdi Taremi’s goal earlier today (102:30). Climax. pic.twitter.com/VkzgzaNupr
Klaassen was also asked about the OneLove captain’s armband, which Virgil van Dijk had been due to wear until FIFA threatened sanctions.
The campaign promotes “inclusion and sends a message against discrimination of any kind”, but those planning to wear the armband feared they would immediately be shown a yellow card.
“We’re still behind the statement,” Klaassen added. “FIFA forced us to not wear it, but the statement is still there.”
Van Dijk himself did not appear impressed by discussion of the topic, saying: “You know exactly what the outcome was.
“Two hours before the England game, the news came out, and I was sleeping at the time. I had no influence on anything.
“I’m not dealing with the armband because I don’t want to get a yellow card.”
