A player-fan-writer's take on soccer
With four teams left in the tournament, 44 have been eliminated. The expansion to 48 teams has allowed impressive debutants but prices soared. VAR’s current role is ineffective, leading to officiating inconsistencies. France remains the favorite, and standout players like Mbappé and Bellingham emerged. Overall, the tournament has been intense and revealing.
Kylian Mbappé missed a penalty but scored to propel France to a 2-0 victory over Morocco, advancing them to the semifinals. Following a scoreless first half, Mbappé scored in the 60th minute, and Ousmane Dembélé secured the win shortly after. France will next face the winner of Belgium vs. Spain.
Norway defeated Brazil 2-1, thanks to Erling Haaland’s two goals, advancing to the quarterfinals. Brazil struggled throughout the match, disappointing fans with weak performances. In another game, ten-man England held off Mexico 3-2, progressing to face Norway.
Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0 to secure the final spot in the Round of 16. Here are the matchups in the order they will be played
The USA, England, and Belgium successfully advanced to the Round of 16. England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1, while Belgium scored two late goals to overcome Senegal 3-2, thanks to a controversial penalty. The USA won 2-0 against Bosnia and Herzegovina despite being reduced to ten players.
Brazil won 2-1 against Japan, advancing to the Round of 16, while Paraguay shocked Germany by winning on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Morocco also triumphed over the Netherlands in a penalty shootout after equalizing late in the match.