Croatia, runners-up four years ago, started their World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against a well-drilled Morocco at Al Bayt Stadium. Morocco were impressive, but failed to create clear-cut opportunities as Croatia also drew a blank.
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Defending champions France delivered a powerful statement of intent by outclassing Australia as Olivier Giroud equalled Thierry Henry’s all-time scoring record for the national team. Craig Goodwin gave the Socceroos a shock early lead but Les Bleus turned on the style to remind everyone why they are the current title holders.
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Robert Lewandowski had a penalty saved as Poland and Mexico played out a goalless World Cup draw at a fervent Stadium 974. Captain Lewandowski has never scored in the tournament and his wait continues after a tame effort was kept out by Mexico’s veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
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Denmark were held to a draw by Tunisia in their World Cup opener in a raucous atmosphere at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan. Despite fielding many Premier League regulars, the much-fancied Danes were given a tough workout in Group D.
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A bold and brilliant Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history as they came from behind to stun two-time winners Argentina in a fantastic Group C opener in Lusail. Lionel Messi had given Argentina the lead from a penalty but two quick fire second half goals landed a seismic win for the Saudis.
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