Group Stage action delivered a mix of dominant performances, dramatic comebacks, and tightly contested battles as four matches unfolded across Groups G and H. Spain opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with a commanding win over Saudi Arabia, while Egypt produced a strong second-half surge to overturn New Zealand. Elsewhere, Uruguay were held in an entertaining draw by Cabo Verde, and Belgium were frustrated in a goalless stalemate against a disciplined Iran side, as early tournament standings began to take shape.
Spain 4–0 Saudi Arabia (Group H)
Spain delivered a dominant attacking display to open their campaign with a convincing 4–0 win over Saudi Arabia.
Teen sensation Lamine Yamal set the tone early with a 10th-minute opener, before Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice in quick succession (21’, 24’) to put the game out of reach before halftime. Saudi Arabia’s night went from bad to worse when Hassan Altambakti turned the ball into his own net in the 49th minute, sealing a comprehensive Spanish victory.
Belgium 0–0 Iran (Group G)
Belgium and Iran played out a tense, physical goalless draw in Group G, with discipline proving costly for the Europeans.
Despite spells of pressure from both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough. Belgium were also reduced in intensity following a red card incident, leaving them to settle for a point in a tightly contested match.
Thierry Henry on Cape Verde making it 2-2 against Uruguay:
“I can’t believe what I’m watching. These are the moments that make the FIFA World Cup the greatest tournament in football.
People can debate formats or say it’s only a seven-game competition, but just look at the… pic.twitter.com/cSjhaYzUIa
— Sage (@Sage_FCB) June 21, 2026
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Uruguay 2–2 Cabo Verde (Group H)
Uruguay were forced to share the points after a dramatic 2–2 draw with Cabo Verde in an entertaining Group H encounter.
Maximiliano Araújo opened the scoring in the 44th minute, but Cabo Verde struck back through Kevin Pina (21’) and Hélio Varela (61’) to take control at different stages. Uruguay looked set for defeat before Agustín Canobbio rescued a late equalizer in first-half stoppage time (45+6’).
New Zealand 1–3 Egypt (Group G)
Egypt staged a strong second-half comeback to secure a 3–1 win over New Zealand.
Finn Surman gave New Zealand an early lead in the 15th minute, but Egypt responded after the break with a composed finish from Mostafa Ziko (58’). Mohamed Salah then turned the game around in the 67th minute before Trezeguet sealed the victory late on (82’), completing a controlled comeback performance.
The opening rounds of the group stage fixtures showcased the unpredictable nature of tournament football, with established powers asserting dominance while others were forced to battle for control. Spain and Egypt emerged with statement victories, Uruguay were left reflecting on a missed opportunity after a thrilling draw, and Belgium were unable to break down a resilient Iran side. As the group phase develops, every point will carry increasing importance in the race for qualification to the knockout rounds.
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