The most eye-catching game between Germany and Spain in Group E ended as 1-1 draw. Both goals were scored by big, traditional centers who had to come off the bench because their managers preferred the squad with no traditional striker.
Japan blew the favorable situation they were in after losing to Costa Rica 1-0. Instead of securing early qualification for the knockout stage, they will have to try to beat Spain in their final game to be the master of their own destiny.
Denmark sent Canada out of the World Cup with a big 4-1 win. Conceding a goal at the beginning of the first half didn't bother the Russia 2018 runners-up much.
By contrast, Belgium seemed to have reached the limit of their aged squad. Losing to Morocco 2-0 was not the end of their trip to Qatar, but was likely to draw a period for their "golden generation."
Host: Li Xiang
Guest: Josh McNally
Cover designer: Feng Yuan
Chief editor: Chen Ran
Supervisor: Zhang Shilei