The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia has just moved from a group stage that was full of drama, unexpected wins and losses, and stunning displays of skill on the world stage. The road to the final in Moscow is certainly progressing quickly as we are now moving into the knockout round. So, there are the 16 that beat the group stage into the first part of the knockout stage, and the stakes have never been higher. First, let’s take a look at last week’s games:
Uruguay vs. Russia
Uruguay beat 10 man Russia and finished as Group A winners. Uruguay beat the hosts 3-0 all thanks to goals from forward duo Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani and an own goal from Denis Cheryshev. Team star Suarez kicked things off strongly, scoring only ten minutes into the game.
Australia vs. Peru
Peru struck when it mattered least, seeing off Australia 2-0 in their last Group encounter. Peru was already eliminated, but they set about their task calmly until the 18th minute, Andre Carrillo volleying an impressive effort inside the far post from a cross. It was an outstanding parting shot that sparked joy among the Peru supporters.
Denmark vs. France
This match marked the first goalless draw of the 2018 World Cup. It also saw Denmark progress to the Round of 16 to join their opponents France who topped Group C ahead of the Danes. We couldn’t help but notice a lack of cohesion to each team’s play. Christian Eriksen had two close but unsuccessful attempts at the Danes and France were seemingly uninspired even with their star player Antoine Griezmann starting up front.
Iceland vs. Croatia
Croatia beat Iceland 2-1 in a thrilling match where the Icelanders had one eye on the match at Saint Petersburg where Nigeria and Argentina were battling for a spot in Group D. Marking their third win Croatia led Iceland to an early exit from the global tournament.
The Round of 16: Messi and Ronaldo Make an Exit
Neither Lionel Messi, the 31-year-old master of the close-quarters dribble and the quick strike nor Cristiano Ronaldo, the 33-year-old productive scorer able to save both his team and country at the toughest moments has conjured a goal in the knockout phase in this year’s most valued tournament. They are both out of the World Cup once again, after being upstaged by their opponents on Saturday, the opening day of the Knockout Stage and the Round of 16.
The afternoon of their defeat, Messi and his teammates were thrashed by a French team loaded with skill, youth, speed, and goals. It ended in a 4-3 win for France. Hours later, Ronaldo and his team were outdone by Edinson Cavani, who scored twice, and an impenetrable Uruguayan defense. The final score was a 2-1 win for Uruguay.
France and Uruguay will go head to head in the quarterfinals on Friday. It was a disappointing loss for Messi and Ronaldo, who have proven time and again to be deserving players. However, the games must go on!