Russia's First Round of WC Football- Highlights

Russia's First Round of WC Football- Highlights

Who else? The goal scoring, freakishly fast Cris Ronaldo
Source: Google

Cristiano Ronaldo buried a trademark free-kick against Spain, Lionel Messi missed a regulation penalty & a certain Hirving Lozano shocked the defending champions, Germany. The aforementioned headlines dominating the newspapers across the globe. Indeed, the world cup kicked off to a number of fascinating encounters. 

From L-R: Prince Salman, Football, Vladimir Putin
Source: Google

Vladimir Putin & Prince Mohammed bin Salman watched from the stands, as Russia dismantled an' 'out of order' Saudi Arabian side. It was funny to see Mr Putin at his diplomatic best waving his hands in despair on each of the Russian Goals. A 6-0 scoreline will lead to a lot of 'Whips (figuratively speaking)' back in Riyadh. While, Russia made a bright start to the competition, a Salah-less Egypt were left heart-broken as Uruguay sneaked in a late winner to dent the hopes of 'The Pharoahs' . With Salah expected to be back for the remaining encounters, the North African team can still count its chances. 

Iran, in Group B, were persistent throughout the regulation time of Ninety minutes. A compact defense, popular since Carloz Queiroz took over in 2010, well supported by quick counter-attacking prowess. Team Melli, worked hard and were rewarded in the 95th minute, when one of the Moroccan midfielders headed the ball into the wrong net. Tehran & the other Iranian supporters erupted in Joy. Their joy would be enhanced further when the two European powerhouses, Spain & Portugal played out a thrilling 3-3 draw. All 3 goals scored by serial Ballon d'or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, his 51st career hat-trick.  

Messi, Messi? First Chile, now Iceland.
Source: Google

Lionel Messi had the script written in his favor. With the score tied at 1-1, the little master from Argentina couldn't beat the extended fingers of the Icelandic goalkeeper. The tiny Atlantic nation continuing its 'Giant-killing' form from the Euros. Croatia had its task cut-out against the African powerhouse, Nigeria. A 2-0 victory, well deserved by the Croatians. It took the silky touches of Paul Pogba to clinch a 2-1 victory for France against the Aussies in Kazan. Serbia & Denmark won their respective matches against Costa Rica & Peru. The results were on expected lines, 1-0 scorelines depicting the cagey nature of the ensuing World Cup. 

The World Cup arrives every 4 years & so, arrive the Hot favorites Brazilians. Neymar Jr, wielding the baton of brilliance for the South Americans in Russia. A Phil Coutinho cracker had the Brazilian flag flying, only to be cut short by a minute of Swiss flair. A 1-1 draw, an upset, indeed. Speaking of upsets, Germany, the defending champions from Brasil 2014 were left shocked as Mexico, scored & defended their goal as if their life depended on the same. England's Fergie time winner against Tunisia was not the only entertaining match as Russia rounded its first round of matches. Japan & Senegal clinching first ever victories for Asia & Africa over South America & Europe respectively.

As, we move in to the second round of matches, a lot of questions will be answered. Will the likes of Brazil, Germany, Argentina & Spain stand up and make their experience count. Will we see a couple more upsets as we move further towards the knock-out stages. It would be awesome if the same level of Football is reproduced in the 2nd week. 

Till then, Dasvidaniya :) !!