This Tuesday, Wales will play England in Group B at the World Cup in Qatar.
The English lead the group with four points, while Wales have a much worse chance of reaching the last 16 with one point.
In the parallel match, Iran will meet the USA – a politically explosive duel. In the doctrine of the Islamic Republic, the USA are regarded as the Great Satan, and a defeat would be more than just a failure on the pitch. With three points, Iran has one more on its account than the Americans.
The Netherlands national team will be looking to book their place in the last 16 against hosts Qatar. They are the clear favourites for the match. Even a draw would be enough for the Dutch to advance. In the event of a defeat, Qatar would be the first World Cup host to be eliminated without points.
At the same time, Ecuador will face Senegal in Group A. Ecuador’s top striker Énner Valencia is slightly injured, but is likely to play and should make the last 16 possible. Senegal can also still hope to advance with three points.
By the way, the Dutch are in a great mood. I dropped by their training session. No wonder, because they are unbeaten in 17 games. An international record and a reason for optimism for the men in orange. Ecuador’s top striker Énner Valencia is slightly injured, but is likely to play and should make the round of 16 possible. Senegal can also still hope to progress with three points.