Croatia emerged victorious against Iceland with a 2-1 win in their final Group D match at the Rostov Arena, securing their place in the next round against Denmark. Despite numerous changes to the Croatian lineup, they managed to maintain their winning streak, although their performance was not entirely convincing. Iceland displayed commendable spirit and determination, creating several opportunities but failing to capitalize on them. Key moments included a goal from Badelj, a penalty converted by Sigurdsson, and a late winning strike from Perisic. The article highlights the importance of Luka Modric to Croatia's midfield, the potential risks of making too many changes to a team's lineup, Croatia's depth of talent, and Sigurdsson's leadership for Iceland.

Belgium has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Brazil with a score of 2-1. An own goal by Fernandinho and a powerful strike from Kevin De Bruyne secured the victory for Belgium. Despite Brazil's possession and improved performance in the second half, including a goal by Renato Augusto, Belgium's counter-attacking strategy and crucial saves by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois helped them maintain their lead. Neymar's diving incident was highlighted as a negative aspect of his play. Belgium is set to face France in what is anticipated to be an exciting semi-final match.

The article by Alexander Macrae provides an analysis of how France won the World Cup, focusing on key players and tactics. Kylian Mbappe is highlighted as a standout player whose goals were crucial to France's success, including his performance against Argentina. Antoine Griezmann's experience and ability to handle pressure are also noted as vital to the French team. Raphael Varane's defensive leadership is credited as well. The article discusses the team's tactics, suggesting that coach Didier Deschamps' strategy was effective, even when it led to a less exciting game, such as the draw with Denmark. The turning point for France is identified as their win against Argentina, which set the tone for their subsequent victories and ultimately their World Cup win.

France emerged as the 2018 World Champions with a 4-2 win over Croatia in Moscow. The match saw an own goal by Mario Mandzukic, a VAR-awarded penalty scored by Antoine Griezmann, and goals from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe. Croatia's efforts included a goal from Ivan Perisic and a goal following a mistake by French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The article discusses the performance of the French team, the presence and reactions of French President Emmanuel Macron, the impact of Kylian Mbappe, the controversy surrounding the use of VAR, and a potential dive by Griezmann that led to the opening goal. The World Cup is praised for its excitement and memorable moments.

Croatia has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after winning a penalty shootout against Russia with a score of 4-3. The match saw Russia initially taking the lead with a goal by Denis Cheryshev, but Croatia quickly equalized with a header from Andrej Kramaric. The game went into extra time where Domagoj Vida scored for Croatia, but Russia's Mario Fernandes equalized near the end of extra time. The missed penalty by Fernandes allowed Croatia to secure their semi-final spot with Ivan Rakitic scoring the decisive penalty. Croatia is set to face England in the semi-finals. The article also highlights the fighting spirit of the Russian team, Cheryshev's impressive goal, and the overall drama and excitement of football as showcased in this match.

France has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Uruguay with a score of 2-0. The French team scored goals through Raphael Varane and Antoine Griezmann. Uruguay's performance was hindered by the absence of Edinson Cavani, and their goalkeeper Fernando Muslera made a critical error that led to a goal. France's Hugo Lloris made a significant save that kept the team ahead, and his encounter with a dragonfly became a humorous highlight. France will now prepare to face either Brazil or Belgium in the semi-final.

England has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Sweden 2-0, with goals from Harry Maguire and Dele Alli. The article discusses the performance of key players such as Maguire and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who made crucial saves during the match. It also reflects on the Swedish team's performance, which was seen as underwhelming. The piece touches on the historical significance of England reaching the semi-finals, a feat not achieved since 1990, and the growing excitement among English fans, encapsulated by the popular chant 'football's coming home'. The author suggests that the excitement will reach new heights if England manages to win the tournament.

England has advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals after a dramatic penalty shoot-out win against Colombia, with Eric Dier scoring the winning penalty. The article highlights five key takeaways from the match: England's historic penalty shoot-out victory, the controversy over Wilmar Barrios' headbutt, Colombian tactics, Jordan Pickford's crucial save, and the upcoming quarter-final matchups. The author notes England's previous penalty woes, debates the fairness of Colombian tactics, praises Pickford's performance, and anticipates exciting quarter-final games, especially between Brazil and Belgium.

Sweden has advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals after defeating Switzerland 1-0. The match's only goal came from a deflected shot by Emil Forsberg. The game was tightly contested, with few clear-cut chances for either side. Switzerland's best opportunity was a header by Haris Seferovic, which was saved by Robin Olsen. Late in the match, a penalty awarded to Sweden was overturned by VAR, and a free kick was given instead. Despite the lack of quality and excitement in the game, Sweden's resilience and defensive strength were highlighted, as well as the effective use of VAR. The article also mentions that Sweden will face the winner of the England vs. Colombia match in the quarter-finals.

Belgium has advanced to the World Cup Quarter Final after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Japan. The match was scoreless at halftime, but Japan took a 2-0 lead with goals from Genki Haraguchi and Takeshi Inui. Belgium's comeback began with a fortuitous goal by Jan Vertonghen, followed by a header from Marouane Fellaini to level the score. The winning goal came from a counter-attack finished by Nacer Chadli. The article highlights the excitement of the match, Japan's commendable performance, Vertonghen's unusual goal, the Belgian team's spirit, and the anticipation for the upcoming Quarter Final between Belgium and Brazil.

Brazil has advanced to the World Cup Quarter Final after defeating Mexico 2-0, with goals from Neymar and Roberto Firmino. The article discusses the match's key moments, including Neymar's controversial reaction to a challenge from Miguel Layun, Brazil's consistent quarterfinal appearances, the debate over whether Gabriel Jesus or Roberto Firmino should start as striker, and Mexico's disappointing exit after a strong start in the tournament. The author also anticipates a potential quarterfinal match between Brazil and Belgium, which would be an exciting game for fans due to both teams' attacking capabilities.

Uruguay advances to the World Cup Quarter Final after a 2-1 victory over Portugal, with Edinson Cavani scoring both goals for Uruguay. The match took place at the Fisht Olympic Stadium, and the win sets up a Quarter Final clash with France. Cavani's performance was notable for his scoring as well as his defensive efforts. Uruguay's defense, particularly the Atletico Madrid center-back pairing of Diego Godin and Jose Maria Giminez, was strong, limiting Portugal's opportunities. The article also speculates on whether this World Cup will be Cristiano Ronaldo's last, given his age and the physical demands of the sport.

France defeated Argentina 4-3 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup match to advance to the Quarter Finals. The game featured a penalty by Antoine Griezmann, a wondergoal from Angel Di Maria, a deflected goal off Gabriel Mercado, a stunning volley by Benjamin Pavard, and two goals from Kylian Mbappe. Despite a late header from Sergio Aguero, Argentina could not recover. The match highlighted Mbappe's exceptional talent, compared to Pele's historic performance. Questions arise about Lionel Messi's future in World Cup football as he may step aside due to age and internal team issues. The game is considered one of the best in the tournament, setting high expectations for upcoming knockout matches.

The article by Alexander Macrae discusses the outcome of the World Cup group stage match between Belgium and England, which Belgium won 1-0. The match saw both teams making numerous changes to their lineups, with Belgium making nine and England eight, as both had already qualified for the knockout stages. The article questions whether the teams aimed to lose to potentially secure an easier path to the semi-finals. It highlights the strength in depth of both squads, Adnan Januzaj's impressive goal, Michy Batshuayi's humorous celebration mishap, and looks forward to the round of 16. Belgium will now face Japan, while England will play against Colombia.

Sweden defeated Mexico 3-0 in a crucial World Cup Group F match, with both teams ultimately advancing to the next round due to Germany's unexpected loss to South Korea. Sweden's victory was comprehensive, with goals from Augustinsson, Granqvist, and an own goal by Hernandez. Despite the loss, Mexico advanced because Germany was defeated 0-2 by South Korea, with both Korean goals coming in stoppage time. The article highlights Sweden's dominant performance, the importance of Granqvist's penalty, and the tense atmosphere as Mexican fans awaited the outcome of the Germany-South Korea match to confirm their team's advancement.

In a World Cup Group C match, Denmark and France played to a 0-0 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium, resulting in France topping the group and Denmark qualifying in second place. The match lacked intensity and real scoring chances, with the most notable attempts coming from France's Nabil Fekir. The crowd expressed their displeasure at the game's lack of excitement. The article also discusses the broader implications of the match, including France's underwhelming performance in the tournament so far, the fans' willingness to show their unhappiness, and the use of Twitter to comment on the dull match. It ends on a hopeful note, looking forward to more exciting games in the World Cup.

Spain and Morocco ended their Group B match in a 2-2 draw in the World Cup. Morocco took the lead with a goal from Boutaib, but Isco quickly equalized for Spain. Despite Spain's possession and pressure, Morocco scored again in the second half through En Nesyri. Spain managed to level the score once more with a goal from Aspas, initially disallowed for offside but then awarded after VAR review. The article discusses the impact of VAR, Moroccan resilience, Spain's defensive weaknesses, a controversial moment involving Gerard Pique, and the implications for Spain's next match against Russia.

Saudi Arabia secured their first World Cup victory in 24 years by defeating Egypt 2-1 with a last-minute goal from Al Dawsari. The match was notable for the historic appearance of Egypt's 45-year-old goalkeeper El Hadary, who became the oldest player to play in a World Cup and saved a penalty. The use of VAR was a significant talking point due to the lengthy review process for Saudi Arabia's second penalty. Egypt's performance was disappointing, losing all three group matches, and star player Mohammed Salah appeared to be struggling with fitness and internal team issues, potentially hinting at retirement from the national team.

Belgium defeated Tunisia with a score of 5-2 in a World Cup match, with Romelu Lukaku scoring twice to become the first Belgian to score four goals in a World Cup. Eden Hazard and Michy Batshuayi also scored, while Tunisia's goals came from Dylan Bronn and Wahbi Khazri. The article discusses Belgium's strong attacking performance and potential defensive weaknesses, Tunisia's poor showing, Lukaku's pursuit of the golden boot, and the highs and lows experienced by Bronn in the match. The author suggests that England should be wary of Belgium's attacking prowess in their upcoming match.

Germany secured a crucial win against Sweden in the World Cup, with Toni Kroos scoring a dramatic late goal in the 95th minute. Despite being a player down after Jerome Boateng was sent off, Germany managed to equalize and eventually win, keeping their hopes of progressing in the tournament alive. Sweden had taken the lead with a goal from Ola Toivonen but were unable to hold on. The article discusses the implications of the match for both teams, highlighting Germany's need for improvement and Sweden's resilience and chances of qualifying. It also mentions individual performances, including Boateng's difficult game and Kroos' decisive moment.

Mexico secured a 2-1 victory over South Korea in their World Cup match, with goals from a penalty and Javier Hernandez. Despite a late goal from South Korea's Son Heung-Min, Mexico's win positions them closer to qualifying for the next round. The article discusses Mexico's potential as a dark horse in the tournament, South Korea's commendable attitude and work rate, Mexico's defensive weaknesses, Son Heung-Min's struggles under pressure, and Javier Hernandez's milestone of 50 goals for Mexico. The outcome of South Korea's qualification depends on the result of the Sweden vs. Germany match and their own final group game against Germany.

Portugal secured a 1-0 victory over Morocco in a World Cup match, thanks to an early goal by Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo's goal marked his 85th international goal, setting a record for the most goals by a European player for a national team. Despite the early setback, Morocco outplayed Portugal for most of the game but lacked the finishing quality. Portugal's overall performance was criticized, with the team showing heavy reliance on Ronaldo. The article also discusses the use of VAR in the World Cup and an incident involving Portugal's Pepe, who was accused of play-acting during the match. Morocco, although out of the World Cup, will face Spain in their final group stage match.

The article by Alexander Macrae discusses seven key takeaways from the Champions League final. Gareth Bale's stunning overhead kick for Real Madrid is highlighted as a potential greatest-ever goal in the competition's history. Karim Benzema's goal for Madrid is noted for its bizarre nature, resulting from a mistake by Liverpool's goalkeeper Loris Karius. Liverpool fans faced travel and accommodation issues in Ukraine. Mohammed Salah's injury, caused by a tangle with Sergio Ramos, is a significant blow, potentially affecting his World Cup participation. Karius is criticized for another mistake leading to a goal by Bale. Real Madrid's achievement of winning the Champions League for the third consecutive time is celebrated, and Cristiano Ronaldo's record of five Champions League titles is acknowledged as a historic individual accomplishment.

The article discusses seven key takeaways from the Champions League final. Gareth Bale's stunning overhead kick goal for Real Madrid is highlighted as a historic moment. Karim Benzema's unusual goal due to a mistake by Liverpool's goalkeeper Loris Karius is also noted. Liverpool fans faced travel and accommodation issues in Ukraine. Mohammed Salah's injury, potentially affecting his World Cup participation, is a significant blow. Karius' second mistake, leading to another goal, is mentioned. Real Madrid's achievement of winning the Champions League for the third consecutive time is celebrated. Lastly, Cristiano Ronaldo's record of winning his fifth Champions League title, surpassing Barcelona's club record, is acknowledged as a testament to his greatness.