The World Cup group stage has concluded. Record-breaking Messi, despite coming on as a substitute, delivered another gem from a free kick, scoring his sixth goal (his 19th overall in the World Cup), as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 (Lautaro scored his first goal, a penalty) and finished the group with a perfect record ahead of Austria and Algeria, both of whom qualified.
Belingham (goal and assist) made a strong showing in England's 2-0 victory over Panama. England finished top of the group, ahead of Croatia (a 2-1 victory over Ghana with goals from Sucic and Vlasic) and Ghana, who qualified among the eight best third-placed teams.
Yerri Mina played no more minutes for Colombia. A 0-0 draw with Portugal secured first place in the group, ahead of Portugal. Congo also advanced, beating Uzbekistan 3-1 to secure a spot in the round of 32 as the best third-placed team, eliminating Iran.
The head-to-head matches begin this evening, with the round of 32 draw set to follow. There are also potential high-profile round of 16 matches, such as France vs. Germany and Spain vs. Portugal. The first match, tonight at 9 p.m., is South Africa vs. Canada.
The round of 32
Germany-Paraguay
France-Sweden
South Africa-Canada
Netherlands-Morocco
Portugal-Croatia
Spain-Austria
USA-Bosnia
Belgium-Senegal
Brazil-Japan
Ivory Coast-Norway
Mexico-Ecuador
England-Congo
Argentina-Cape Verde
Australia-Egypt
Switzerland-Algeria
Colombia-Ghana
(Unioneonline)
