Hosts Qatar eliminated after defeat by Senegal

Host nation Qatar have crashed out of the World Cup after they slumped to a 3-1 defeat by Senegal at the Al Thumama Stadium on Friday, despite Mohammed Muntari netting a first-ever World Cup finals goal for the Qataris. The Netherlands’ draw against Ecuador, who beat Qatar in the tournament’s opening game, later on Friday confirmed that the Qataris become the first side mathematically eliminated.

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Late rally sees Iran down 10 man Wales

Wales’ first World Cup for 64 years looks set to end at the first hurdle after Iran secured a last ditch but deserved win.Substitute Roozbeh Cheshmi struck from 20 yards nine minutes into stoppage time, before Ramin Rezaeian finished off a counter-attack to seal victory for a revitalised Iran side.

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Richarlison scores stunner as Brazil ease past Serbia

Richarlison lit up the World Cup with a moment of Brazilian magic as the tournament favourites overcame Serbia’s stubborn resistance to open their campaign with an impressive victory. Brazil had to play a patient game to break down an organised Serbia rearguard but forced the breakthrough after 62 minutes.

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Ronaldo on target as Portugal edge out Ghana

Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to score at five Fifa World Cups as Portugal began their campaign with a thrilling victory over Ghana. The 37-year-old scored the opening goal from the penalty spot but Ghana hit back through Andre Ayew. Quick-fire goals from Joao Felix and Rafael Leao ultimately proved decisive.

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Uruguay draw blank against well drilled South Korea

Uruguay defender Diego Godin and midfielder Federico Valverde both hit the woodwork as the South Americans were held to a 0-0 draw by South Korea in their opening World Cup Group H game. Hwang Ui-jo who came closest to breaking the deadlock, but he scooped his shot over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

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