Day 11 of the World Cup brings more pressure in Groups G and H, where every team is still searching for separation after a round of surprising results.
Spain looks to recover from an unexpected draw, Belgium tries to prove its dark horse status, Uruguay faces a dangerous Cape Verde side, and Egypt takes on a New Zealand team that already showed it can create problems.Spain vs. Saudi Arabia
Both teams will be looking to redeem their pre-World Cup status, especially Spain after an embarrassing 0-0 draw in its opener against Cape Verde.
Although it was a great story in terms of a total underdog result, Spain now needs to respond quickly and show why it entered the tournament as one of the favorites to bring home the Cup.
Saudi Arabia struck first in its opener but could not hold off the skill and determination of Uruguay over 90-plus minutes, including hydration-break time.
Spain must rely on winger Nico Williams, especially if Lamine Yamal is only going to come off the bench. They must also figure out how to solve the relationship between their midfield playmakers Pedri and Enzo Fernández, who both need touches on the ball.
Saudi Arabia has proper chemistry on the field because most of its players compete in the domestic league. This just might be the biggest game of their lives, but that might not be enough to stop Spain from avoiding any further embarrassment.Pro Paul’s Pick: Spain wins.
Belgium vs. Iran
All four teams in Group G are tied on points after two draws in the openers. This creates fierce ambition heading into the second game of group play.
Iran and Belgium are no newcomers to World Cup competition, so expect neither team to let emotions get the best of them. Both sides have talented players, fitness, and ambition, but this game will be decided by tactics.
Belgium is a dark horse Cup contender for a reason. Even though Romelu Lukaku is aging, he is still a force to reckon with. Also, watch out for Man City winger Jérémy Doku to make a difference when it matters.
Iran will be organized and difficult to break down, but Belgium has the attacking quality and experience to find the goal it needs.Pro Paul’s Pick: Belgium wins.
Uruguay vs. Cape Verde
Uruguay had to come from behind to tie the game against Saudi Arabia, but they will not take Cape Verde lightly after the Blue Sharks drew Spain in their opener.
The way Group H is going, it looks like three teams could realistically qualify for the knockout Round of 32.
For Cape Verde, the big question is whether the historic draw against Spain was a one-off fluke or proof that they truly belong on this stage. The Blue Sharks, one of the best team nicknames in the World Cup, will have the chance to justify that their talents are legit by getting a result against Uruguay.
But that is some serious heavy lifting to overcome.
Uruguay has the history, toughness, and experience to handle this moment. Cape Verde will battle, but Uruguay should have enough quality to take control.
Pro Paul’s Pick: Uruguay wins.
New Zealand vs. Egypt
Do the Kiwis bring out the Haka and deliver an upset against the mighty Egyptians, or is this fight going to be a bit too much for them to handle?
Egypt has top-level skill and experience, and Mohamed Salah adds even more danger to the attack. With his ability to create, finish, and change a game in one moment, Egypt has the type of star power that can decide a tight match.
New Zealand has rising star Elijah Just, who will be difficult to contain after a brilliant performance scoring two goals against Iran. His confidence should be sky-high, and Egypt will need to make sure he does not find the same space and rhythm.
This should be competitive, but Egypt’s experience and attacking quality give them the edge.
