FIFA World Cup Starts!

The 2022 FIFA World Cup is finally underway, and we have already been treated to some fantastic action. England have started in style, Wales have shown they belong on the big stage, plus Saudi Arabia have caused one of the biggest upsets in football history. Here are the key stories from the first few days of the competition.

Is it coming home?

Whilst it is far too early to make any sweeping predictions on England’s chances, their 6-2 thrashing of Iran suggests the Three Lions could be a force in Qatar. Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling all looked in scintillating form, whilst Gareth Southgate’s deep squad options were highlighted by late goals from substitutes Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford. The only concern for Southgate will have been the lapses in defence that saw Mehdi Taremi net twice for Iran.

Tougher tests await, but bookmakers have certainly taken notice of the performance. The Three Lions' odds for FIFA World Cup success have shortened to 7/1 following the victory.

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Bale to the rescue

It was a game of two halves for Wales in their opening game. For the first 45 minutes, they were outclassed by an energetic and skilful US side, who took the lead through Timothy Weah’s well-worked goal. But a half time tactical change by manager Robert Page sparked the Welsh into life and they thoroughly deserved their late equaliser, which came courtesy of a Gareth Bale spot kick.

Victory over Iran in their next game, will set up a mouthwatering clash with England in the final round of group games.

Early exit for the favourites?

There have been some huge shocks in World Cup history, but few have been as seismic as Saudi Arabia’s incredible 2-1 victory over Argentina. Before the tournament, most FIFA World Cup betting sites had Argentina as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. But thanks to two early second half goals, the Saudis ended Argentina’s 36 game unbeaten run and threw Group C wide open.

Best of the rest

It was an opening night to forget for the host nation Qatar. They were overmatched and unplayed by Ecuador, who eased to a comfortable 2-0 victory, thanks to two early goals from Enner Valencia.. They are joined at the top of Group A by the Netherlands, who laboured to a 2-0 win over Senegal. Late goals from Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaassen did the job for the Dutch as they finally broke down a stubborn Senegal backline.

Following Argentina’s shock defeat, Mexico and Poland played out a 0-0 draw. A result that keeps both sides firmly in the hunt for a place in the last 16. It could have been a lot worse for the Mexicans, but Guillermo Ochoa came to their rescue with a second half penalty save from Robert Lewandowski.

Meanwhile, holders France started their campaign in style with a 4-1 victory over Australia. Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show with a goal and two assists, whilst Olivier Giroud scored twice and Adrien Rabiot added another. The result put France in pole position to qualify from Group D, as Denmark and Tunisia played out a competitive 0-0 draw in the group’s other game.

With the games coming thick and fast over the next few days, make sure you check out the latest FIFA World Cup betting offers to help you enjoy the action.

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