World Cup Day 5 Recap and Preview of Day 6 Matches

Day 5 Highlights

The World Cup continued with no team securing a victory on Monday, as all four matches ended in draws. This unexpected outcome brought its own excitement and drama, even without the usual winners and losers. From Cape Verde’s staunch defense against Spain to a thrilling late-night battle between Iran and New Zealand, each game had its moments.

Spain 0-0 Cape Verde (Group H)

Cape Verde stunned many by holding off Spain, despite surrendering 74% possession and a higher expected goals (xG) count. Their disciplined defense allowed just one foul throughout the match, frustrating one of the tournament favorites and earning a valuable point. This result also raises the chances of a Spain versus Argentina showdown in the Round of 16.

Belgium 1-1 Egypt (Group G)

Belgium, fielding one of their less impressive squads in recent tournaments, struggled against Mohamed Salah’s Egypt. Egypt’s Emam Ashour opened scoring with a powerful strike, but Belgium managed to equalize thanks to an own goal by Egypt’s Hany. Romelu Lukaku made a strong physical impact despite his changed physique. These two sides remain the frontrunners in Group G, but it’s unclear who will top it.

Saudi Arabia 1-1 Uruguay (Group H)

This encounter was intense and physical, marked by aggressive tackles and some loss of control from the referee. Saudi Arabia took the lead through Al Amri before Uruguay’s Araújo pulled level. Despite Uruguay’s reputation and frantic style under Bielsa, they didn’t dominate as expected. After the first round of matches, all four Group H teams share a point each.

Iran 2-2 New Zealand (Group G)

This lively game saw New Zealand’s Elijah Just score twice, putting him atop the Golden Boot race alongside other leaders. Iran, despite many players being inactive due to league cancellations, rallied twice to draw level. The stadium, packed mostly with Iranian supporters and some Mexican fans cheering for Iran, witnessed a gritty contest filled with commitment, if not finesse.

Upcoming Fixtures for Day 6

• France vs. Senegal - 3 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey. Broadcast on FOX, Telemundo, BBC One; streaming via Fox One and Peacock (Español). Pape Matar Sarr represents Senegal and has Tottenham ties.
• Iraq vs. Norway - 6 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium, Boston. Same broadcasters and streams. No current or former Tottenham players involved.
• Argentina vs. Algeria - 9 p.m. ET at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City. Available on FOX, Telemundo, ITV 1; streaming Fox One and Peacock (Español). Cuti Romero from Argentina has Tottenham connections.
• Austria vs. Jordan - Midnight ET at Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara. Televised on Fox Sports 1, Telemundo, BBC One; streams on Fox One and Peacock (Español). Kevin Danso from Austria is linked to Tottenham.