Day 10 had all to play for. Ecuador, Iran and England needed just a draw, Senegal and the US had to win, while the Dutch were expected to go through against Qatar. The various possible outcomes made the day an exciting one. And what eventually transpired made it even more interesting.
Ecuador vs Senegal : Group A ( 1-2 )
Kalidou Koulibaly, leading the Teranga Lions and Champions of Africa, squared up with the prolific Enner Valencia led Ecuador in a must win game at Khalifa Stadium. The South Americans on the other hand just needed a draw to go through. The match began on a good pace with some attractive open play. Valencia in particular lurking around the Senegal defence. However Senegal were the first to score just before half time through a penalty from Ismaila Sarr. This set up the match beautifully with an exciting second half was on the cards.
Senegal draw first blood through Ismaila
Ecuador held most of the possession, but unusually were wary of attacking Senegal. They looked less incisive while Senegal looked more purposeful whenever they had the ball in control. However Ecuador equalised through Moisés Caicedo in the 67th minute to draw level only to go behind again in the 70th minute on account of some sheer brilliance from Koulibaly. The central defender had a match to remember, he not only held the Senegalese defence together but also scored from a sparkling one touch volley to ensure victory and qualification to the round of 16. The last few minutes of the match saw Ecuador throwing everything on the Lions, but under Koulibaly they held sway. The African Champions lived up to their reputation and ended Ecuador’s run in the World Cup. Over dependence on Valencia hurt Ecuador despite their good performance.
Netherlands vs Qatar : Group A ( 2-0 )
A bit of a dampener this match as Qatar were already out of the Tournament and Netherlands just needed a draw to stay relevant. The Dutch with a young team have been steady ( though not spectacular ) and the impressive Cody Gakpo got them ahead in the 26th minute at the packed Al-Bayt Stadium. The hardworking Frenkie de Jong showed his goal scoring prowess too with a goal in the 49th minute.
The Dutch were untroubled in the entire match with their goalkeeper ( the tallest player in the tournament ) Andries Noppert having a sedate stay at the goal. The Louis Van Gal managed side were comfortable winners and qualified to the round of 16 with 7 points. Qatar’s stay came to an end. However they did show some glimpses of the talent they have and surely the experience at the World Cup will hold them in good stead in the future.
Wales vs England : Group B ( 3-0 )
The Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium ( featured image ) hosted the Anglo – Welsh Derby, with the Welsh expected to cause some headache to the 3 Lions. Gareth Southgate, England’s Manager made a few changes to their starting line up which had played against the US, in this critical encounter. Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden were to start the match in place of a Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling were two of the critical changes and indeed the Manchester Rivals did not disappoint.
England were on the attack from the word go and it would be fair to say that the first half was played generally in Wales’ half with Danny Ward their Goalkeeper on tenterhooks all the time. Surprisingly the first half went goalless and as far as Wales were concerned they never even had a sniff. But it was pure magic from Rashford when play resumed.
The Anglo – Welsh Derby
A free kick to remember for the ages as young Rashford struck a gem in the 50th minute. Danny Ward tried his best, but the shot had so much quality and precision that it sailed over and into the net. The Welsh were stunned and even before they could gather themselves, a perfect Harry Kane centre from the right had Phil Foden firing in from shot range to put England far ahead. They were relentless and the Welsh did not have the answers. The chasm between the teams was clear. The match was put beyond Wales when Rashford scored again in the 68th minute, his 3rd goal of the tournament ( and joint top scorer with Cody Gakpo and E Valencia) and ensured victory for England who will now face the Senegal Test. It has to be seen whether England will end their 56 year wait for the trophy.
Iran vs USA : Group B ( 0-1 )
The Al Thumama Stadium hosted Iran and USA in a crucial Group B tie. Iran just needed a draw while the US had to win. The match was more of a cagey affair with both teams playing much within themselves, with US though showing more intent. The Iranians appeared surprisingly sedate but defended strongly.
It was only the brave Christian Pulisic ( who has impressed everyone with his skill and speed ) who put his body on the line over a cross and knocked home the all important goal for the US in the 38th minute.
In the second half, the Iranians did step up the pressure on the US goal looking for the all elusive equaliser, which to their dismay never came. The US fought hard to deny them and with this victory booked their place in the round of 16. They would be locking horns with the Dutch, while the Iranians would be going home.
Day 10 belonged to the Teranga Lions, a brilliant Marcus Rashford, a brave Christian Pulisic and a steady Dutch Side. Day 11 has instore for us some mouth watering contests in Group C with Argentina facing Poland and Saudi Arabia taking on Mexico, in a winners take all contests. In Group D too, Denmark will clash with Australia and Tunisia will face an uphill task against Champions France. Will Messi progress would be on everyone’s mind. Day 11 has the answer.
Visit rizkhan.in on the Go for dalit updates on FIFA World Cup.
Read QUICK, Read BETTER @ rizkhan.in
