Sport Live Blogs

ENGLAND have been dealt a huge blow as both Declan Rice and Callum Wilson have missed training for the Three Lions.This comes just days before they are due to face France in the quarter-final of the World Cup.
Rice is out of training with an illness, while Wilson is suffering from an an injury.
Elsewhere, Eden Hazard has announced his retirement from international duty following Belgium’s group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Finally, Cristiano Ronaldo did not train with Portugal’s other last-16 substitutes today.
Instead, he joined the starters in the gym for a session despite not playing the whole match.
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Hakimi celebration explained
Morocco star Achraf Hakimi did a penguin dance after knocking Spain out of the 2022 World Cup, and the reason behind this has now been revealed.
Paris Saint-Germain ace Hakimi seemed to have fired a dig towards Spain boss Luis Enrique, who raised eyebrows with some of his selection criteria including the notable omission of Sergio Ramos.
Ramos and Hakimi play together at PSG, and being from the Real Madrid academy the Morocco international saw the centre-back dominate Los Blancos’ defence for a number of years.
And the goal seems to have been dedicated to the Real legend as the pair previously celebrated a goal while playing for PSG by duetting a penguin celebration – which Hakimi replicated in Qatar
Xhak at it
Granit Xhaka is flying straight to Dubai to join his Arsenal team-mates after being dumped out of the World Cup following Switzerland’s 6-1 loss to Portugal in the Last 16.
But rather than head back home to London, Xhaka is travelling to join the Gunners as he reckons he is more than ready to get the show back on the road with the North Londoners.
Xhaka told the Evening Standard:”The Premier League is waiting and, of course, I wanted to be here longer than this. But we lost the game today and I am happy to go back now with the team.
“Of course, emotionally it is not easy. But this is part of our business, part of football. I have something to achieve there, and I know the team is in Dubai at the moment doing the pre-season.
“I’m flying back to Dubai, going back to the team, and going back to the training and trying to forget the tournament now”
Santos explains Ronaldo omission
Portugal manager Fernando Santos insists his decision to drop Cristiano Ronaldo against Switzerland was tactical and not personal.
Santos said: “Cristiano and Ramos are different players. There is no problem with the captain of the national team.
“It was strategic. Players are different. I also started [Diogo] Dalot, Raphael [Guerreiro], however [Joao] Cancelo is a fabulous player. That’s what I thought for the game against Switzerland, in another game it might be different.
Santos added when pressed for a detailed answer: “Didn’t I already answer this question? There is no problem between Fernando Santos and the captain of the national team.
“We’ve been friends for many years and things don’t affect us. Coaches make decisions. I already explained, that part was completely resolved and he set an example of a great captain”
Credit: Getty
Ronaldo’s sister act
Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister has begged him to “come home” and QUIT Portugal’s 2022 World Cup squad
That’s after Ronaldo was axed for last night’s 6-1 triumph over Switzerland.
And the star forward’s sister Katia Aveiro has now posted a passionate message on social media urging her brother to ditch Portugal’s squad and return home to his family.
Aveiro posted: “Portugal won. Thank God. New talents shone. Amazing. Are we going to win this? I believe so!! On the field they shouted for Ronaldo. It wasn’t because Portugal was winning…
“And I’m not saying this. The world watched… Why is it??? I’m glad Portugal won… (I’ve seen Portugal win so many times). And even this doesn’t invalidate the smallness of a large part of the Portuguese people. And this is what is not right, because they continue to curse, they continue to insist on offence and ingratitude.
“Too sad with what I read and hear not here in Qatar but in my country in his country… But really sad. AND I WANTED IT SO MUCH. I really wanted him to come home, leave the national team and sit next to us so we could hug him and say that everything is fine, remind him of what he conquered and what home he came from.
“I really wanted him not to go there anymore , we have suffered enough (they will never know how big) you are and the little ones don’t realise how huge you are… Come to your house. Which is where they understand you, where they embrace you. As always was. Where do you have all the gratitude. And not ingratitude.
“Thank you Ronaldo. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I really wanted to… But whatever you decide, we are with you. Until death. Thanks”
Ronaldo baffles Portugal in training
Cristiano Ronaldo refused to train with Portugal’s substitutes and instead insisted on joining the starters for a gym session.
Ronaldo was axed by manager Fernando Santos during his team’s 6-1 triumph over Switzerland in the Last-16 of the 2022 World Cup.
Santos admitted he was unhappy with the star forward for acting out after getting substituted during the group stage victory over South Korea.
According to Marca, the Manchester United legend is still causing a stir after failing to show up for training with the substitutes.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner instead went for a low-intensity gym session with the starters, even though he played less than 20 minutes.
The Portugal camp are said to be “surprised” not to see the 37-year-old amongst the substitutes on the field.
The Portugal captain was not feeling any discomfort and was thus in perfect condition to train
Buk won’t stop
Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka used to regularly score goals at the World Cup — before waking up.
Now, Saka is making his mark on the grandest stage, having already scored three times, and has his sights firmly set on France.
Set to earn his 24th cap in Saturday’s quarter-final against the world champions, here is a player who is really living that dream.
Saka said: “I always allow myself to dream. Having watched the tournament as well growing up, I have a lot of memories. I remember South Africa 2010, the famous song (Shakira’s Waka-Waka) — it’s an amazing song.
“Things like that stick with you forever and as a kid, I just woke up after a dream and thought ‘I want to do this for real. I want to score a goal in a World Cup’. Now, of course, we have to believe we can win the World Cup. Right now, our focus is on the next game, France.
“I think it’s about finding the right balance because obviously it’s not just a normal game, it’s a World Cup quarter-final. At the same time, you need to prepare and do the same things the way you normally do so you don’t overthink and get too nervous.
“It has been a great experience so far, to achieve what I have and help my team with the goals I have scored is a really nice feeling”
England fan club
England have a massive fan club at their Al Wakrah Sports Club training base, writes SunSport’s Charlie Wyett.
A security team of 90 Sri Lankans were flown in by FIFA for the start of the tournament to give the stadium 24-hour protection.
But as soon England get knocked out, they will also be sent home back to Sri Lanka with the majority not having any jobs to go to.
So unsurprisingly, the security officers are rooting for the Three Lions to beat France on Saturday meaning their employment can continue.
One of them told Sunsport: “We are all cheering for England. Everyone here, all the players and the staff, have been very nice to us.”
England’s hotel is just a mile away from the training ground next to the beach. There, the players have a security team made up of police officers.
Gareth Southgate’s players are all enjoying the one-storey accommodation which also has a lot of open space.
The players have been watching all the games on a big screen but even the physio areas are also showing games meaning the stars – such as Jack Grealish – have been able to watch the World Cup matches while having a massage
Credit: Rex
Infantino’s shock statement
Biggest shock of Qatar 2022, not: Fifa President says it’s been the best World Cup group stage ever, writes SunSport’s Martin Lipton.
Gianni Infantino’s comments will hardly surprise anybody given his determination to stay inside with the Doha authorities – especially since he moved his family here last year.
Nevertheless, the ubiquitous Infantino insisted: “I have seen all the matches, indeed, and put very simply and very clearly, this has been the best group stage of a FIFA World Cup ever.
“The matches have been of great, great quality in beautiful stadiums – we knew that already. However, as well, the public who was there was incredible. Over 51,000 on average.”
Infantino added that TV viewing figures showing a global audience of more than two billion fans so far were “really incredible”
He continued: “Two-and-a-half million people in the streets of Doha and a few hundred thousand every day in the stadiums, all together, cheering together, supporting their teams, fantastic atmosphere, great goals, incredible excitement and surprises.
“This World Cup has shown there are no more small teams and no more big teams. The level is very, very equal.
“For the first time as well, national teams from all continents going to the knock-out phase, for the first time in history. This shows that football is really becoming truly global”
Michael O’Neill returns
Michael O’Neill has been reappointed as Northern Ireland manager.
The Irish FA has agreed a deal for O’Neill to come back on a five-and-a-half year contract.
The 53-year-old tactician spent just over nine years in the role and sent the national team to the 2016 Euros.
His first game back will be be away to San Marino in a European Championship qualifier on March 23
England training latest
England’s training session is in full swing ahead of Saturday’s 2022 World Cup quarter-fainl against France.
According to SunSport’s man on the field Charlie Wyett, Declan Rice has missed training because he is unwell.
Newcastle star Callum Wilson, on the other hand, has a minor injury.
The weather cloudy and the players are practicing in 29C
Qatar’s desert storm
A major tornado has struck Qatar, with dramatic footage showing the black spiral-shaped storm clouds touching down in the desert country.
The 2022 World Cup host has also been hit with torrential rain for the first time since the tournament kicked off last month.
It touched down in Ras Laffan Industrial City, around 50 miles north of the capital Doha.
That is during England’s players and coaching staff are training in preparation for Saturday’s hotly-anticipated clash with France
Shocking moment huge tornado and torrents of rain hit Qatar as England trains for crunch quarter final against France
Ronaldo speaks out
Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence after being benched for Portugal’s World Cup Last 16 victory against Switzerland.
Manager Fernando Santos dropped Ronaldo to the bench for the crunch clash after previously slamming him for sulking when he was subbed off in the 2-1 defeat to South Korea.
Taking to Instagram, the former Manchester United superstar revelled in the team’s “incredible” win and shared a photo of him celebrating with the team.
Ronaldo posted: “Incredible day for Portugal, with a historic result in the biggest competition in world football.
“Luxury exhibition of a team full of talent and youth. Our Selection is to be congratulated. The dream is alive! Until the end! Strength, Portugal!”
World from Qatar
The president of the French football federation has been boasting how he was the driving force behind FIFA’s decision to ban the One Love armband, writes SunSport’s man on the field Mark Irwin.
Noel Le Graet has admitted: “I was one of the leaders in preventing this armband from being worn.
“Three or four countries, all from Western Europe, wanted it. In fact, most of them have been knocked out.”
Erm, not all them, Noel, as you will find out on Saturday night.
And presumably this is a different Noel Le Graet to the randy 80-year-old who was recently summoned by the French Sports Minister following allegations that he’d been sending inappropriate text messages to female employees of the federation.
One Love? Non, merci.
Barcelona target Martinelli
Barcelona are scouting Arsenal ace Gabriel Martinelli during the 2022 World Cup with his contract nearing its end.
Barca are believed to be considering a move for Martinelli as it would be hoped he could be bought at a cut-price deal this coming summer.
The forward’s contract at the Emirates runs out in 2024, meaning he would be able to leave the Gunners for free in a year and a half.
The Brazil international’s three appearances at the World Cup have caught the eye of the Blaugrana, who labelled him as a “favourite” of the club’s sporting department as well as coaching staff, according to Sport.
The Spanish outlet has suggested that Martinelli will be watched closely by the Catalans as they consider making a move for him at the end of the season
Credit: Getty
Eden Hazard RETIRES
Belgium star Eden Hazard has retired from international football aged 31 after his national team flopped in the 2022 World Cup by going out in the group stage.
Real Madrid ace Hazard earned 126 caps for his country, scoring 33 goals along the way.
Taking to Instagram to confirm his decision, the winger wrote: “A page turns today… Thank you for your love.
“Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008.
“I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you…”
Liverpool favourites for Bellingham
Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham could be on his way to Liverpool next summer after they emerged as the frontrunners to sign him.
According to Christian Falk, the Reds have surged ahead in the race to land Bellingham with talks at a more advanced stage with them than with Real Madrid.
Falk also revealed that the midfielder’s family are more convinced by the prospect of a move to Merseyside than they are to Madrid.
The 19-year-old himself appears to have struck up a rapport with the Reds’ skipper Jordan Henderson while on England duty at the 2022 World Cup
PSG target Bellingham
Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi claims every top club wants to sign England international Jude Bellingham.
Borussia Dortmund star Bellingham faces France in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final clash.
Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and even Arsenal have been tipped to come on for the 19-year-old sensation in the summer.
Al-Khelaifi told Sky Sports: “Everybody wants him. I’m not going to hide it.
“Amazing player. What a player. He’s one of the best players in the tournament.
“First World Cup, and calm and relaxed, confident – amazing”
Ron his own
Cristiano Ronaldo left his team-mates celebrating on the pitch as he walked down the tunnel at the end of Portugal’s 6-1 win over Switzerland.
Ronaldo was dropped by manager Fernando Santos after throwing a strop following his substitution against South Korea in the group stage.
Santos was not happy with the Portugal captain’s behaviour and left him on the bench, instead handing a first ever international start to Goncalo Ramos, who scored a hat-trick.
However, Ronaldo, who came on as a substitute, was spotted among his team-mates celebrating during the match before heading down the tunnel
Credit: Rex
More on Mbappe
As mentioned earlier, Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe didn’t train with France on Tuesday ahead of Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final clash with England.
Journalist Julien Laurens gave the latest update on Mbappe’s fitness following his training absence and insists the star striker is “not injured or tired or struggling”.
Laurens tweeted, “Kylian Mbappé is not training with the France squad.
“He is indoors for a recovery session which was always the plan. He is not injured or tired or struggling!”
Kylian Mbappe situation
Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe missed France’s training session on Tuesday ahead of Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final clash with England.
Reports suggest that is currently simply a precaution taken by French manager Didier Deschamps.
Mbappe is one of the best players in the 2022 World Cup following some stunning performances.
The star striker currently counts five goals and two assists in four games
Round-up ahead of quarter-finals  
Cristiano Ronaldo’s replacement Goncalo Ramos gloriously notched the first halt-trick of the World Cup as the quarter-final line-up was settled.
Benfica striker Ramos had only played 33 minutes of international football in four games off the bench before destroying Switzerland in his first start.
Portugal’s 6-1 margin of victory accurately reflected their superiority as they outdid Brazil’s 4-1 demolition of South Korea for the best performance of the tournament so far.
Dropped Ron beamed as he shared the delight of the Portuguese bench during the romp before he came on at 5-1 up.
But he’s unlikely to start Sunday afternoon’s last-eight clash with Morocco.
The North Africans punished Spain’s failure to turn dominant possession into goals with a 3-0 shootout win following a goalless 120 minutes.
Now, though Qatar takes a break until Friday’s action.Croatia face Brazil at 3pm that day and Holland meet Argentina four hours later.
Then on Saturday it’s Morocco vs Portugal at 3pm and England vs France at 7pm.
Kylian Mbappe missed French training yesterday but it’s not yet been revealed why.
Finally, PSG have publicly admitted they want England midfield hero Jude Bellingham, 19.
Club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said: “I’m not gonna hide it, everybody wants Bellingham.”
Ron his own
Cristiano Ronaldo left his team-mates celebrating on the pitch as he walked down the tunnel at the end of Portugal’s win over Switzerland.
Portugal won 6-1 in the last-16 clash to set up a tie with Morocco.
Ronaldo was dropped by manager Fernando Santos after throwing a strop following his substitution against South Korea.

Santos was not happy with his captain’s behaviour and left him on the bench, instead handing a first ever international start to Goncalo Ramos.
The switch paid off as Ramos scored a hat-trick as Ronaldo watched on from the dugout.
The superstar was brought on with 17 minutes left with his side already 5-1 up.
Thumb lift of the Gab
Gabriel Jesus has posted a smiling thumbs-up picture and vowed to be “back stronger” as he begins what could be a long recovery from a knee injury.
The Arsenal striker returned home early from Brazil’s World Cup bid after a knock in their final group game against Cameroon.

But he looked positive as he told fans on social media: “God is wonderful. I will be back stronger.”
Jesus could be out for up to three months but the Gunners hope he’ll return much sooner.
Jude’s a ‘dog of war’
Jude Bellingham warned England’s World Cup rivals: I’m the dog of war!
The teenage sensation is ready to show France his bite is worse than his bark when the Three Lions unleash him in Saturday’s quarter-final.
Bellingham, 19, is now the most wanted midfielder on the planet after his superb displays in Qatar — with French giants Paris Saint-Germain last night declaring their interest.

And Borussia Dortmund star Bellingham said: “I go into games knowing every one is a war and you’ve got to be up for it.
“When you’ve got the dog, you’re just born with it. The way I was raised in football, you had to have that dog in you.
“That’s something I have. Off the pitch I’m a nice guy but, on it, something takes over me.
“I feel like you’ve got no friends out there except those wearing the same kit.
“Anyone not wearing that — it’s no beef — but there is something that’s personal.”
Prem top dogs Liverpool and Manchester City, plus Real Madrid, are already tracking Bellingham.
But PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi says they will join the race for the ex-Birmingham whizkid.
Oui Lions! Mbappe transformed into England fan…
England supporters living in Paris cheered on The Sun yesterday — as French superstar Kylian Mbappe was transformed into one of them.
We landed the first blow ahead of Saturday night’s last-eight tie — draping Mbappe’s waxwork in England colours.

There was more bad news for France yesterday as Mbappe, 23, missed training with a suspected ankle inury, sparking fears he could miss the quarter-final.
Sun man Joe Hadden yesterday evaded security at Paris’s Grevin Museum to deck out the striker’s effigy in a Three Lions scarf and hat, with a St George’s flag wrapped around his waist.
English ex-pats in Paris said Mbappe’s Three Lions makeover suited the £250million PSG striker, who has banged in five goals already in the tournament.
Property developer Kyle Bridges, 37, who has lived in the French capital for two years, said: “That’s brilliant work by The Sun. They’ve been giving us loads of stick so we’ve got to give it back to them.”
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PORTUGAL are through to the World Cup quarter-final thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from Goncalo Ramos against Switzerland.Ramos put his side ahead with a stunning effort in his first ever start for Portugal, having replaced Cristiano Ronaldo, who was benched for the game.
Veteran Pepe made it 2-0 with a thumping header soon after before Ramos bagged his second of the game after half-time.
Raphael Guerrero added a brilliant fourth moments later before Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji pulled one back for the Swiss.
Ramos then scored his hat-trick with a brilliant chip before Raphael Leao made it six.

RESULT: Portugal 6-1 Switzerland
Portugal XI: Diogo Costa; Diogo Dalot, Pepe, Ruben Dias, Guerreiro; William Carvalho, Bernardo Silva, Otavio, Bruno Fernandes; Gonçalo Ramos, Joao Felix
Switzerland XI: Sommer; Fernandes, Schar, Akanji, Rodriguez; Freuler, Xhaka; Shaqiri, Sow, Vargas; Embolo

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That’s all from the Lusail Stadium
Portugal stormed to an outstanding 6-1 win over Switzerland this evening to earn a spot in the quarter-finals.
Many questioned Fernando Santos for his decision to drop Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench ahead of the game, but it actually proved to be a stroke of genius with Goncalo Ramos scoring three of the six goals.
Portugal were head and shoulders above their opponents performance-wise, and that result will give them the confidence and belief that they can go all the way.
Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
Portugal 6-1 Switzerland
Read SunSport’s match report here.
Credit: Reuters
Quarter-final line-up
Portugal will battle Morocco on Saturday afternoon for a place in the semi-finals.
The other quarter-final games include:

Croatia vs Brazil
Netherlands vs Argentina
England vs France

Portugal dominate
As reflected in the scoreline, Portugal completely dominated proceedings this evening.

Man of the moment
Goncalo Ramos is the first player to score a hat-trick on his first World Cup start since Miroslav Klose for Germany in 2002.
Credit: Reuters
Full Time – Portugal 6-1 Switzerland
A deserved win for Portugal.

Full Time – Portugal 6-1 Switzerland
Portugal book their spot in the quarter-finals with an outstanding win over Switzerland.
90+3. Portugal 6-1 Switzerland
Leao plays a one-two with Guerreiro on the left before making a run to the edge of the box.
He receives the ball back, cuts inside and fires his shot over a flat-footed Sommer and into the top-right corner.
Credit: Getty
90+2. GOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL PORTUGAL!!!!
WOW.
WHAT. A. FINISH.
Leao gets in on the action!

90+1. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Four minutes have been added on.
87. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Ronaldo is through on goal again, but he flicks his shot wide.
Meanwhile, Leao replaces Fernandes for the final minutes of the game.
84. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Ronaldo scores!
But, the goal will not stand as he was two-yards offside in the build-up.
Credit: Getty
82. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Another substitution for Portugal.
Neves is on to replace Silva.
80. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Shaqiri fires the ball towards Embolo on the edge of the box.
The striker flicks it up before attempting an audacious bicycle kick, but his effort is off-target.
76. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Portugal have a free kick in a threatening position.
Ronaldo steps up to take, but he fires his strike directly into the wall.
74. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Two more changes for Portugal.
Vitinha replaces Felix.
Horta replaces Otavio.
73. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Here he is…
Ronaldo is ON to replace hattrick hero Ramos.
The stadium erupts as he takes to the pitch!
Credit: Getty
68. Portugal 5-1 Switzerland
Otavio sets the ball to Felix in midfield, who then flicks a perfectly-weighted pass through to Ramos, who makes a run towards Sommer.
The striker then chips it over the Swiss goalkeeper with great composure to complete his hattrick!
Credit: Reuters
67. GOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL PORTUGAL!!!!!
Ramos gets his hattrick!

66. Portugal 4-1 Switzerland
Another change for Switzerland.
Okafor is on to replace Vargas.
62. Portugal 4-1 Switzerland
In the midst of that 10 minutes of madness, Switzerland made a few more changes.
Sow has been replaced by Zakaria.
Freuler has been replaced by Seferovic.
58. GOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL SWITZERLAND!!!
Akanji gets on the scoresheet!
Most likely a consolation goal – unless this is the start of an unbelievable comeback. Surely not?!

56. Portugal 4-0 Switzerland
Otavio kicks of a fantastic Portugal move with a clever flick on the sideline.
The ball eventually finds Guerreiro on the edge of the box. He cuts inside and fires it into the roof of the net!
Credit: Reuters
55. GOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL PORTUGAL!!!!
That’s it.
Game over.
It’s FOUR thanks to Guerreiro!
54. Portugal 3-0 Switzerland
Fernandes swings a corner into the box.
Pepe gets his head on it once again, but Rodriguez makes the block in front of goal.
Portugal appeal for a handball, but the referee says no chance.
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MOROCCO have made a bright start to their World Cup clash against Spain. The African underdogs finished top of their group in Qatar and have managed to keep Spain at bay in the first half.

Start time: 3pm GMT
TV: ITV 1
Live stream: ITV X
Morocco XI: Bounou, Hakimi, Aguerd, Saiss, Mazraoui, Amrabat, Ounahi, Amallah, Ziyech, En Nesyri, Boufal
Spain XI: Simon, Llorente, Rodri, Laporte, Alba, Busquets, Gavi, Pedri, Olmo, Asensio, Torres

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Morocco 0-0 Spain
50. Spain are looking shaky at the back when on the backfoot.
Simon again nearly gifts the opposition a goal with the ball at his feet.
It seems like something the manager has told them to do, passing it out from the back, but Simon does not look comfortable with the ball at his feet.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
48. Torres is brought down wide on the right.
The ball is swung into the Moroccan box.
It is headed behind for a corner.
Credit: EPA
Morocco 0-0 Spain
46. The whistles still continue while Spain have the ball.
Morocco sit deep with numbers behind the ball.
Spain need to find a way to break down the numbers in front of them.
Kick-off: Morocco 0-0 Spain
We are underway in the second half.
Big half ahead as we need to find ourselves a winner.
Morocco get the game restarted.
HT: Morocco 0-0 Spain
It has been a game, highly-contested in the midfield areas so far.
Amrabat has been huge for the Atlas Lions in breaking up play.
He has given Pedri and Gavi no time on the ball whatsoever.
Boufal and Ziyech have been busy for Morocco but they need to have a more telling presence in the second half.
HT: Morocco 0-0 Spain
Despite dominating the possession stats, Spain have really failed to do anything with it in that first half.
Still failing to register a shot on target in that first 45 minutes.

HT: Morocco 0-0 Spain
The referee brings the first half to a close.
Morocco have had the better chances in this half.
Spain, have had all the possession, but failed to do anything with it.
Credit: PA
Morocco 0-0 Spain
45. We are going to have one minute of time added on.
Torres comes streaming forward for Spain as he looks for Asensio.
Morocco manage to snuff the attack out with numbers.
Morocco 0-0 Spain – Aguerd chance
43. A deep cross is overhit and finds Boufal.
He takes the ball down and drops his shoulder to lose his marker.
Measuring a cross to the back post, he finds Aguerd who has a free header at goal but heads it over.
Big chance.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
41. Spain look to thread one towards the byline for Olmo.
Hakimi reads it all too well and the PSG right back manages to jockey it out of play.
Gavi is penalised for a foul on Boufal.
He has become the Jack Grealish of this Moroccan side.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
39. Celta Vigo, I mean Spain, come forward once more.
The attack breaks down and Morocco try to get quick ball to Hakimi, who makes a lung-bursting run into the Spanish half.
On this occasion it does not come off as the ball runs out play.
Morocco only need that quick counter to come off the once.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
37. Spain are dominating possession in these early stages.
You would expect that with Morocco being a more direct side.
As long as Spain are doing nothing with that possession, it is something that the Atlas Lions will happily give up to them.
Credit: Getty
Morocco 0-0 Spain
35. The numbers the Atlas Lions get around the ball is phenomenal.
As soon as Ferran Torres receives it, he is immediately surrounded by three Moroccan players.
No way through for the Spanish forward as he is crowded out.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
33. Alba is having to deal with the constant threat of Ziyech.
Morocco come forward as the ball is fed to Mazraoui.
He fancies his chances and shoots from distance but the keeper saves and gathers the ball at the second attempt.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
31. We are through the first half an hour of the game.
Neither side has had a shot on target in that time.
This game has penalties written all over it right now.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
29. Morocco are defending well.
Spain are struggling to deal with the numbers in front of them.
This means they have to try and be more inventive to break those lines, something which has not clicked for La Roja yet.
Credit: Getty
Morocco 0-0 Spain
27. Seems strange to see Spain playing without a striker.
Pep Guardiola was chastised for doing the same with his Man City side.
But at a World Cup, in such an important game, you would feel the need for a striker is there.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
25. Absolute drama in the Moroccan box.
Bono takes once chance too many and the ball is fed back into Ferran Torres who lays it off to Gavi.
His effort is tipped onto the bar and then the follow up is blocked brilliantly by the Moroccan defence.
The linesman then raises his flag.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
23. The Atlas Lions fans are still making themselves heard.
The drums, trumpets and jeers for Spain.
Boufal pick pockets Llorente once again.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
21. Morocco have another free kick, this time in a wide position.
Boufal does brilliantly on the left to beat Llorente.
His cross toward Ziyech cannot pick out his teammate.
Credit: Getty
Morocco 0-0 Spain
19. Neither keeper has had much to do so far.
The game has turned into a midfield battle.
Amallah is penalised for a foul.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
17. Morocco also are looking comfortable in possession.
They are breaking down the Spanish attacks well.
If they can hit Spain with quick counter-attacks they could hurt them in this turnover.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
15. A high ball is lofted into the Spanish box.
Simon does well to grasp the ball through a sea of players.
Spain are looking to pass the ball around.
Morocco 0-0 Spain
13. Rodri is penalised for a foul on Boufal.
Spain are trying to play a physical game.
The referee is having any of it though.
Credit: Reuters
Morocco 0-0 Spain
11. The Atlas Lions have a free kick in a very dangerous position.
Hakimi takes a strike at goal.
It goes a couple of feet over the bar, not troubling the Spanish keeper.
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KYLIAN MBAPPE has MISSED France’s training session today ahead of their World Cup quarter-final against England. According to L’Equipe, via Get French Football News, Mbappe missed France training days before the meeting with England.
And boss Didier Deschamps was seen in a long discussion with Les Bleus’ doctor at the start of the session.
England’s victory over Senegal set up a clash against World Champions France, who beat Poland to secure their place in the last eight.
Gareth Southgate’s men have been tipped for victory by pundits, with Graeme Souness the latest to weigh in on the debate.

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Reason for Mbappe absence still a mystery
Just why Kylian Mbappe missed French training today is still unclear.
Any injury for their main man would of course be a huge blow to boss Didier Deschamps before meeting England on Friday.
Mbappe, 23, did avoid an ankle injury scare ahead of the tournament while playing for PSG
He was taken off late in a 2-1 win over Lorient after feeling discomfort.
Jesus set for knee op
Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is set to undergo knee surgery after sustaining an injury with Brazil at the World Cup.
There are fears that Mikel Arteta could be without his No.9 for at least three months.

The striker played as Brazil boss Tite rotated the squad in their 1-0 defeat to Cameroon.
But Jesus went off injured in the 64th minute with a knee issue.
And now The Telegraph are reporting that he requires surgery handing the Gunners a major blow in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
It means that the 25-year-old’s World Cup campaign with Brazil is certainly over and Arsenal will now have to rely on Eddie Nketiah up top.
Prem clubs eye Ghana ace
Mohammed Kudus is being repeatedly linked with a move away from Ajax.
The Ghanaian winger demonstrated his skillset during the World Cup and has given a reputation a huge boost.
The Sun revealed earlier this week that the 22-year-old is open to a Premier League move.
But he has also been strongly linked with a potential transfer to Barcelona.
Kudus hit two goals in Ghana’s three World Cup games and four goals in six Champions League games for Ajax.
H/t: Morocco 0 Spain 0
The stylish Spaniards predictably had most of the possession in a lively first half – but Morocco had much the better of the chances.
In fact, Spain managed just one shot -their lowest total in the opening 45 minutes of a World Cup game .
Follow the action on our MATCH BLOG
Records to Kyl for
France training without Kylian Mbappe today could be a boost for England in Saturday’s Wrold Cup quarter-final.
But whatever the situation, the PSG striker seems likely to break all sorts of goal records in time.
And he must be tipped to eventually pass Miroslav Klose’s all-time record for the tournament of 16 goals – achieved from 24 matches.
But the Three Lions’ own pace ace Bukayo Saka has rejected comparisons between the two.
He said: “There is only one Kylian Mbappe – and at the same time, there is only one me.
“I just want to be myself and help any team in the best way I can.”

Mbappe misses training
Kylian Mbappe missed France training just DAYS before their huge World Cup quarter-final clash with England.
The 23-year-old is leading France’s World Cup title defence and the race for the Golden Boot.
Mbappe has scored five and assisted two in four games.
He scored a brace in the 3-1 round of 16 win over Poland to set up a date with Gareth Southgate’s free-scoring England.
However, according to L’Equipe, via Get French Football News, Mbappe missed France training days before the meeting with England.
And boss Didier Deschamps was seen in a long discussion with Les Bleus’ doctor at the start of the session.

Strong Case for joining Utd
Casemiro has revealed why he ditched Real Madrid for Man Utd over the summer.
He said: “Without a doubt it was down to the great stature, because it’s a massive club with a great history.
“I think that the great standing this club has in the game and its great history are definitely the most important reasons to be here. It’s also a fresh set of goals in a brand new league for me.
“So that presents a really big and exciting challenge for me and I’m working really hard to achieve them alongside my teammates.”
Qatar cops filmed ‘crushign fans’
Spanish and Moroccan fans were caught up in crowd carnage as they were trapped in a crush outside their World Cup game.
Riot cops were deployed as fans were pushed trapped against a chain link fence before the round of 16 kick off at the Education City Stadium.
Harrowing video shows fans of both teams stuck on a narrow pathway between two fences.
World Cup carnage as Qatar riot cops filmed crushing screaming fans outside stadium ahead of Spain v Morocco clash
Riot cops and security guards are seen at the end blocking their way and shoving the supporters back.
Other footage shows a huge crowd as cops in helmets clash with the fans.
Security officials reportedly blamed the crush on fans attempting to enter the stadium without tickets.
Men, women and children could all be seen stuck in the crowd pressed against the fence in footage shared from the scene.
Police lined up with riot shields as they corralled the fans waiting near the stadium.
Maddison names England ace he’d ban sister from dating
James Maddison has revealed which England squad-mate he’d BAN his sister from dating… and the one he’d be happy for her to marry, writes DYLAN TERRY.
The Leicester playmaker, 26, is yet to feature for the Three Lions at the World Cup.
He was plagued with a knee problem for the opening two games then failed to get any minutes against Wales and Senegal.

But that has not hampered Maddison’s spirits as he took to media duties on Tuesday – four days before England’s crunch quarter-final against France.
And he had very contrasting points to make about fellow international team-mates Bukayo Saka and Jack Grealish.
When asked which member of the England squad would make the best son-in-law, he told talkSPORT: “The first one who springs to mind is Bukayo Saka. He’s just such a nice kid, man.
“You just get this relationship with him where he’s such a nice guy to everyone that you build such a good relationship with him.
“If I had a sister or a daughter and they said to me ‘I’m going on a date with Bukayo Saka’, I’d be like ‘enjoy yourself, let him pay, but enjoy yourself’.
“But if I had a family member and they told me ‘I’m going on a date with Jack Grealish’, I’d be like ‘nah you’re not’.”
Batistuta hopes Messi surpasses him
Argentina goal legend Gabriel Batistuta says he wants to see Lionel Messi take his World Cup scoring crown on Friday, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Former Fiorentina and Roma strike ace “Batigol”, 53, currently holds the Argentina top goals mark with 10 strikes across three tournaments from 1994 to 2002.
Messi’s sumptuous opener in the squeak past Australia took the little man from Rosario up to nine in five World Cup Finals stretching back to 2006.
And with Louis van Gaal and Holland now standing in Argentina’s path, Batistuta said it was time for him to pass on the mantle – and that there could be no better successor.
Batistuta said: “It is a record that I have had for 20 years and I have enjoyed holding it. 
“But now it is only fair that someone else takes it – and I couldn’t be happier if that person is called Messi.”
He added: “The only thing that makes me angry, still, is that I didn’t get to play enough games in my three World Cups.. that I never got the chance to play a semi-final.
“But I hope that  Messi can score against Holland to take us back to the last four again.”
Eto’o faces probe after ‘fight’
Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o could face prosecution after an astonishing fight with a YouTube cameraman, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Former Chelsea striker Eto’o, now head of the Cameroon FA, blew his top after being approached by Algeria video journalist “Sadouni SM” before Brazil’s win over Korea at Stadium 974 on Monday night.
Eto’o, 41, was caught on camera stalking after the video operator and then breaking free of a group holding him back to kick his adversary to the ground.
It seemed a hugely over the top response to a brief conversation.
But it has now emerged that the YouTuber accused Eto’o of buying off Gambian referee Bakary “Papa” Gassama before Cameroon’s controversial play-off win over Algeria in March – and has been making the claims repeatedly for months.
Algerian unsuccessfully demanded Fifa order a rematch, accusing Gassama of “scandalous refereeing” in Cameroon’s favour.
Ever since, the popular YouTuber has used his pulpit to hurl online accusations at Eto’o, suggesting he used his power and profile to corrupt the officials.
And demanding Qatari police now intervene and arrest and charge Eto’o, he admitted winding up Eto’o once again.
Yunus ‘eyed by Arsenal and Inter’
Valencia midfielder Yunus Musah reportedly impressed Arsenal with his fine World Cup for the USA.
The Gunners are said to have sent scouts to watch the 20-year-old in Qatar.
Arsenal are interested in re-signing USA’s World Cup star Yunus Musah and sent scouts out to Qatar to watch him, according to reports.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims Arsenal and Inter Milan are amongst Musah’s biggest admirers.
Romani told CBS: “Yunus Musah is also in the list of Premier League clubs. Arsenal recently sent their scouts to monitor him, but there are also other Premier League giants well informed on the Valencia midfielder.”
Giroud on Kane
Ex-Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has said he sees similarities between himself and Harry Kane ahead if England v France on Saturday.
The Frenchman had his say on his opposite number with the World Cup Quarter-Final clash approaching quickly.
Giroud said: “I’ve spoken to Hugo Lloris about Harry Kane because he has a profile that can maybe be compared to mine.
“He’s very powerful and over the last few years he’s moved further down the pitch to be more involved in the game.
“He’s also very good at assists and a good finisher that’s clinical. He’s generous with his team mates and has the ability to hurt opponents.
“He’s obviously a great asset to the English team. There’s similarities between us but differences too.”
The Goal
Argentina goal legend Gabriel Batistuta says he wants to see Lionel Messi take his World Cup scoring crown on Friday, writes SunSport’s Martin Lipton.
Former Fiorentina and Roma strike ace “Batigol”, 53, currently holds the Argentina top goals mark with 10 strikes across three tournaments from 1994 to 2002.
But Messi is up to nine after scoring past Australia and Batistuta said: “It is a record that I have had for 20 years and I have enjoyed holding it. 
“But now it is only fair that someone else takes it – and I couldn’t be happier if that person is called Messi.”
King Kyle
Only Kyle Walker can stop Kylian Mbappe, former England star Emile Heskey told SunSport’s Joshua Jones.
The ex-Wigan striker believes that the England full-back has all the right attributes to hinder the explosive 23-year-old.
Heskey said: “The pace of Senegal’s forwards troubled Harry Maguire and John Stones and they [the Senegalese forwards] are nowhere near the quality of France and in particular Kylian Mbappé.
“I would love to keep a back four, but I think it will be a five. At right wing-back, Kyle Walker has to start because of his pace, his aggression, his know-how and his seniority. I can’t see anyone else [of the right wing-back options] being able to stop Mbappé if I’m being honest.”
Five Changes for Spain
Luis Enrique has brutally axed five starters from the Japan defeat ahead of the last-16 clash with Morocco.
Alvaro Morata is among those dropped from the line-up.
Follow all the build up to Morocco v Spain here.
Santos in dark over Al Nassr
Portugal boss Fernando Santos has said he does not know anything on suggestions of Cristiano Ronaldo moving to Saudi Arabia.
Conflicting reports have claimed first that Ronaldo had done a deal with Al-Nassr and then that he not yet agreed anything.
Ahead of tonight’s game with Switzerland, Santos said: “I have not spoken to him about this.
“I don’t know about this. It is his decision. I did not even know about this and I heard about this when I arrived here.
“We are focused on the World Cup. I don’t know anything about this other issue.”
Sou Close to Call
France will be concerned about playing England in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, according to Liverpool legend Graeme Souness.
England overcame Senegal to reach the last eight while France swatted aside Poland.
Souness told ITV: “France will be concerned about playing against England. England are the team that no one wants to play.
“You can’t sit back and say ‘I’m really enjoying that football’, like you would with Spain, and possibly tonight [referencing Brazil].
“But I’ll bet you none of the big teams want to play against England because they see how pragmatic they are, they give very few chances away.”
First-Half of Greatness
THIAGO SILVA reckons he has never seen a better 45 minutes than Brazil’s first half destruction of South Korea, writes SunSport’s Phil Thomas.
The five-time champions finally clicked into top gear with an awesome four-goal Samba salvo to book their ticket to the last eight by the break.
The 38-year-old said: “I would think yes, it is the best 45 minutes – I can’t think of another one played with such energy as this one.
“We had prepared for it, we played to a plan and we’re so happy with it…although it wasn’t perfect due to the goal Korea scored.
“South Korea was our best performance in this competition, but we hope we are going to improve even more in the next round.”
1,000 penalties
Luis Enrique is confident his squad has practiced “at least” 1,000 penalties ahead of their clash with Morocco this afternoon.
Spain were dumped out of last year’s Euros on penalties against Italy but Enrique is determined the same thing does not happen this year.
He said: “I imagine that they have done their homework. Over a year ago, in one of the Spain camps, I told them they had to get here with at least 1,000 penalties taken.
“If you wait until getting here to practise penalties… [it won’t be enough]. It’s a moment of maximum tension, a time to show your nerve and that you can shoot the penalty in the way you have decided, if you have trained it a thousand times.”

Show No Merci
Gareth Southgate will order his England lions to go for France’s throats in the World Cup quarter-final.
He believes his attacking team have the ability to finally beat a top nation in the knockout stage of a major tournament on foreign soil in Saturday’s tie.
Boss Southgate said: “We’ve made quite a bit of history over the last four-and-a-half years. Not all of it good! But that’s the great challenge.
“What we talked about before Senegal was keeping up the relentless pressure, not sitting back if we are ahead, making sure we keep the intensity of our game.
“So we’ve got to do that now against the world champions.”
Kud he go?
Mohammed Kudus is being repeatedly linked with a move away from Ajax.
The Ghanaian winger demonstrated his skillset during the World Cup and has given a reputation a huge boost.
The Sun revealed earlier this week that the 22-year-old is open to a Premier League move.
But he has also been strongly linked with a potential transfer to Barcelona.
Kudus hit two goals in Ghana’s three World Cup games and four goals in six Champions League games for Ajax.
World Cup Preview
The final set of last-16 games get underway today with two tournament big dogs in action.
Spain take on Morocco in what could be a difficult game for Luis Enrique’s side. Morocco became the first African nation since 1998 to top their World Cup group.
They have only conceded one goal so far and showed attacking threat at crucial times.
And later at 7pm it is the turn of Portugal and Switzerland. Fernando Santos’ team have goals in abundance and quality across the pitch.
But Switzerland could be tricky opposition and it won’t be easy for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates.
More than Mbappe
Kasper Schmeichel has warned England about focusing all their efforts on stopping Kylian Mbappe.
The former keeper believes France have a range of ways to hurt England that go beyond the 23-year-old superstar.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “It would be a big mistake thinking it’s all about keeping Kylian Mbappe quiet. Antoine Griezmann is a fantastic player. France are building up and playing better and better.
“This is going to be some encounter. I don’t know how it is going to pan out.”
‘No fears’
Ex-Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has insisted he is not fearing for England ahead of Saturday’s clash with France.
The Three Lions face arguably their biggest challenge under Gareth Southgate in the World Cup quarter-final.
But pundit Ferdinand told the BBC: “I have got no fears for this England team. You have to beat what is in front of you and they have done it convincingly.
“If you were told you were going to be playing in the quarter-finals against a France team with five of their starters missing, you would accept that.”
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CROATIA are through to the World Cup quarter-finals after Japan missed THREE penalties in the shootout.Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic saved three penalties in the first shootout at this World Cup as his side won 3-1 on pens after the match ended 1-1.
Celtic star Daizen Maeda had fired Japan ahead on the stroke of half-time.
But Spurs ace Ivan Perisic equalised with a fine header early in the second half of the crunch clash.

Result: Croatia 1-1 Japan (3-1 on pens)
Japan XI: Gonda, Taniguchi, Endo, Doan, Morita, Nagatomo, J. Ito, Kamada, Tomiyasu, Yoshida, Maeda
Croatia XI: Livakovic, Barisic, Perisic, Lovren, Kovacic, Kramaric, Modric, Brozovic, Petkovic, Gvardiol, Juranovic

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That’s all from Qatar
Croatia have punched their ticket to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals after winning the first penalty shootout of the year in Qatar.
The Croats drew 1-1 with Japan before beating them 3-1 on penalties.
The Japanese broke the deadlock at the Al Janoub Stadium on 43 minutes when Wataru Endo’s cross was met by a touch from captain Maya Yoshida that set Daizen Maeda up for the opening goal.
Croatia equalised after 55 minutes when Dejan Lovren’s pinpoint cross from the right was met by Ivan Perisic at the far post and the Tottenham star beat Shuichi Gonda with an amazing header.
Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic then removed star players Perisic, Mateo Kovacic and captain Luka Modric as the game went to penalties.
But Dominik Livakovic put together a stunning performance as he denied three spot-kicks by Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma and Yoshida to send his country through to the quarter-finals.
Mario Pasalic took on the crucial penalty to send his country through to a quarter-final clash between Brazil or South Korea.
That’s all from us here at SunSport, have a great night!
Credit: Rex
Croatia’s penalty heroes
Croatia’s penalty success continued in the World Cup when they beat Japan 3-1 in tonight’s shootout.
The Croats have now won all three of their penalty shootouts in the competition.
The first two were against Denmark and Russia in 2018, on their way to the final.
Now they await to see who they will face in the final with the possible opponents being Brazil and South Korea
Credit: Getty
Livakovic makes history
Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic caught three penalties during the shootout against Japan to send his country through to the quarter-finals.
Livakovic is the third keeper to make three saves in a single World Cup penalty shootout.
That is after Portugal’s Ricardo in 2006 against England, which saw the Three Lions going out in the quarter-finals.
Livakovic also emulated fellow Croatian Danijel Subasic, who did the same against Denmark in 2018
Credit: Getty
Word from the ground
Here’s what SunSport’s man on the field Andy Dillon makes of Croatia’s dramatic victory over Japan:
The boys from Zzzzzzzzagreb did it again.
World football’s ultimate grinders secured a quarter-final spot after wearing down Japan to the point of submission on penalties.
It is becoming something of a habit for the Croatians to go all the way in a battle of wills to see who cracks first.
Three successive matches at the last World Cup went to extra time and two went to spot kicks with them emerging victorious both times.
Six out of seven of Croatia’s last knockout games have gone the full 120 minute distance.
Two of their three Group F games this year were also goalless draws as they shuffled through into the last 16.
While the football may not be the highest quality or the most entertaining, coach Zlatko Dalic must be applauded for instilling the mental toughness in his team to never say die.
Keeper Dominik Likakovic in particular showed nerves of steel to save three penalties during the final shootout as the Japanese wilted under the pressure of chasing historyAndy Dillon SunSport
What’s next for Croatia?
Croatia are through to the quarter-finals after beating Japan 3-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
The Croats will now have to wait to find out their opponents in the next round.
Zlatko Dalic’s men will take on either Brazil or South Korea on December 9 at the Education City Stadium.
The Selecao and the South Koreans meet tonight at 7pm GMT
Credit: PA
Japan vs Croatia stats
Croatia dominated 58 per cent of possession in 120 minutes of football.
The Croats registered a total of 17 shots, but only four of them were on target.
Japan, on the other hand, produced 13 shots, but only four of them were on target as well.
More below:

FT: Japan 1-1 Croatia (1-3 on pens)
Croatia have punched their ticket to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals after winning the first penalty shootout of the year in Qatar.
Japan broke the deadlock at the Al Janoub Stadium on 43 minutes when Wataru Endo’s cross was met by a touch from captain Maya Yoshida that set Daizen Maeda up for the opening goal.
The Croats equalised after 55 minutes when Dejan Lovren’s pinpoint cross from the right was met by Ivan Perisic at the far post and the Tottenham star beat Shuichi Gonda with an amazing header.
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic then removed star players Perisic, Mateo Kovacic and captain Luka Modric as the game went to penalties.
But Dominik Livakovic put together a stunning performance as he denied spot-kicks by Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma and Yoshida to send his country through to the quarter-finals.
Mario Pasalic took on the crucial penalty that led to a 3-1 victory in the shoot-out
Credit: Getty
Credit: AP
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-3
Pasalic scores!!! Croatia are through!!!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Pasalic to send Croatia through…
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Livakovic denies Yoshida!!! What a game!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Yoshida next for Japan
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Livaja hits the post!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Croatia are next with Livaja
Japan 1-1 Croatia
1-2
Japan finally score with Asano!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
0-2
Brozovic scores for Croatia!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
0-1
LIVAKOVIC DENIES MITOMA!!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
0-1
Vlasic scores for Croatia!!!
Japan 1-1 Croatia
0-0
Livakovic denies Minamino!!!
The Croatian goalie lunges to his left to deny the striker
Japan 1-1 Croatia
0-0
Japan start with Minamino
FT: Japan 1-1 Croatia
Here’s a reminder of how it all went down to penalties:
Japan opened the scoring at the Al Janoub Stadium on 43 minutes when Wataru Endo’s cross was met by a touch from captain Maya Yoshida that set Daizen Maeda up for the goal.
Croatia equalised after 55 minutes when Dejan Lovren’s pinpoint cross from the right was met by Ivan Perisic at the far post and the Tottenham star beat Shuichi Gonda with an amazing header.
Time for penalties now!
Credit: Getty
FT: Japan 1-1 Croatia
Peep!
Off to penalties in Qatar!!!
120+1 Japan 1-1 Croatia
Chance!
Croatia almost score a winner as Majer’s shot just misses Gonda’s bottom right corner
120 Japan 1-1 Croatia
One more minute before penalties…
Unless someone actually manages to score the winner somehow
118 Japan 1-1 Croatia
Croatia continue to dominate possession as we approach full time.
What an amazing game by Gvardiol who has been rock solid at the back, no wonder everyone wants to sign him
116 Japan 1-1 Croatia
Yellow card
Another booking for Croatia as Barisic is cautioned with a late challenge on Ito
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BRAZIL are will play Croatia in the World Cup quarter-final thanks to a brilliant 4-1 win against South Korea. Vinicius Jr gave Tite’s side the lead with a cool finish inside the box after some early dominance in the game before Neymar coolly slotted home a penalty just a couple of minutes later.
Richarlison then rounded off a beautiful team goal soon after to put the Brazilians firmly in command, and Lucas Paqueta made it 4-0 moments after.
Paik Seung-ho pulled one back with a late stunner.

RESULT: Brazil 4-1 South Korea
Brazil XI: Alisson, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Eder Militao, Danilo, Paqueta, Casemiro, Vinicius Jr, Raphinha, Neymar, Richarlison
South Korea XI: Seung-Gyu; Jin-Su, Kim Min-Jae, Woo-Young, Moon-Hwan; Young-Gwon, Hwang Inbeom, Jae-Sung; Hwang Hee-Chan, Cho Gue-Sung, Son

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That’s all from Doha
A dancing and free-scoring Brazil sail into the quarter-finals after a statement win against South Korea.
They face Croatia next, who may well push training forward after watching that first half.
Thank you for reading. Goodnight!
Dad-dancing
Following Richarlison’s goal, the players gathered around manager Tite for their samba celebration.
It’s fair to say he didn’t have the rhythm of others, but a valiant effort from the 61-year-old.
Roy Keane was less than impressed with the moves, labelling it ‘disrespectful’ at half-time.
He went on to say: “I’ve never seen so much dancing… it was like watching Strictly!”
Credit: Reuters
Weverton makes history
Tite made a touching substitution when taking off keeper Alisson for third-choice Weverton during the second half.
But it wasn’t just a nice gesture. The substitution meant that Brazil have become the first ever nation to field 26 players at a World Cup.
All history counts!
Credit: Getty
Brazil hunting Silva-ware
Based on that performance, there is little surprise Brazil are the favourites to lift the trophy.
They were expressive, silky, but firm when they needed to be.
And skipper Thiago Silva was a part of it all this evening, rolling back the years in the green and yellow.
He led from the back, but was the calmest man in the house when setting up Richarlison for Brazil’s third.
A captain’s performance.

Warriors bow out
Paik’s 75th minute strike wasn’t enough to inspire a late Taiguk comeback this evening.
They matched Brazil in the second half but the damage was already done in the first.
In hind sight, Paulo Bento may regret the way he set up his players, but you’d worry for any team up against ‘that Brazil’.
Credit: Getty
From Phil Thomas at 974 Stadium
SunSport’s Phil Thomas was lucky enough to be in attendance this evening, and has this post-match report – enjoy!
When Richarlison said Brazil had ten celebration dance routines planned he clearly wasn’t joking.
And at one stage in this last 16 tie it seemed like we might get treated to them all in one evening.
As it is they settled for four. But had they really wanted to, you got the impression they could have reached double figures.
This was the World Cup Brazil we all dream of seeing. The one which took you back to flashes of Pele and Jairzinho, of Zico and Socrates, of Ronaldo and Rivaldo.
It was Harlem Globetrotters in boots. It was Now That’s What I Call Football It was the Beautiful Game like we hadn’t seen before in Qatar.
And it wasn’t just the goals – although some of them were mind-blowingly magnificent.
It was the side dishes like Neymar’s drag back which didn’t just confuse In Beam Hwang and Guesong Cho, it even had referee Clement Turpin going the wrong way.
At one stage the camera flashed to the VVIP section, and Brazilian legends Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Roberto Carlos and Cafu were looking down. Even they were in awe and applauding.
To think some people had doubted whether the current crop in the most famous football shirt of all were the real deal. Well doubt no more.
Six minutes was all it took to get the party started, courtesy of the man who can’t get a start in the day job at Spurs.
Raphinha put Hwang and namesake Heechan on their backsides with a delightful shimmy down the flank, before drilling a low cross into the box.
Proof, you could say, that two Hwangs don’t make it right.
Neymar – yes, the Greatest Showman made his return from damaged ankle ligaments – arrived and the 974 Stadium held its breath. Only to exhale at a side footed air shot.
No matter, for there, beyond the far post was the newest show-stealing member of the Selecao. The one they all reckon will be wearing Neymar’s crown before too long.
Maybe even before this tournament is over, given the cool, dead-eyed way VInicius jnr took a touch, had a look…and clipped it past four defenders and the keeper into the corner.
Cue dance routine number one, a little Samba line dance near the deadball line. They were only just getting their eye in and the toe-tapping warmed up.
Seven minutes later they were at it again, this time with a goal everyone – bar the little South Korean version of the Barmy Army behind one goal – wanted to see.
Richarlison’s speed of thought and fleet of foot got him in front of Woo Young Jung, and the Korean’s attempted boot clear was, instead, a boot to the back of a Brazilian.
Raphinha picked up the ball yet was almost waiting for Neymar to stroll up and take it off him. He duly did, to a delighted round of applause from his fans.
A stutter, a stagger, and keeper Seung Gyu Kim was on his knees as the ball almost apologetically rolled into the net.
Celebration no 2, a slight variation on the first, but definitely a different version. The best was still to come…in every respect.
For after half an hour we got the sort of moment which, if you had to come up with a caricature of all Brazil stand for, would be this.
Richarlison played head tennis to start it, before slipping it to Marquinhos, still lurking in the Korean box from a corner.
He pinged it to centre back pal Thiago Silva, whose instant touch teed up Richarlison to finish low beyond Kim.
This time the celebrations saw him race to the sidelines, where 61-year-old coach Tite joined in with a bizarre chicken dance. It was clucking marvellous.
Yet still they weren’t finished, and still we weren’t even at half time. This time Vini jr, scorer of the first, was creator of the fourth, with the most deliberate of stood-up deliveries.
Lucas Paqueta was in acres of space, buried his volley low into the corner, and set off on a solo Samba before his team-mates arrived to turn it into more of a convoluted conga.
It was mind-blowing…and for a Korean team looking ever heavy-legged from the hard-fought battle against Portugal three days earlier, it was merciless.
It was also a tad rub-their-noses-in-it when third-choice keeper Weverton – the only one in the squad without any action before last night – replaced Alisson for the last ten minutes.
Mind you, for all it was a done deal inside half an hour, Alisson did actually have to earn his money, with no less than FOUR stunning stops.
As it is, he was eventually beaten by a piledriver from substitute Seung Ho Paik, but by then it mattered not a jot.
It was game, set and match long before. The boys are definitely back in town…and Heavens, they’re going to take some stopping.Phil ThomasSunSport
FULL TIME – Brazil 4-1 South Korea
The referee blows his whistle and the Selecao dance on to the quarter finals where Croatia lay in waiting.
It was a first half of pure samba magic which saw the South American side put four on the board.
Neymar trudges on to the field carrying a banner of Brazilian legend Pele, who was watching from hospital today. I’m sure he will have enjoyed that one!
Credit: Getty
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
90+1, Hwang continues to to be a nuisance, in the best possible way, racing in between defenders and lashing a shot into the side netting. It’s been a brilliant effort from the South Korean players in the second half, a polar opposite from the first.
There will be four added minutes here.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
88, Brazil knock it around, sizing up the opportunity.
They eventually work it to Martinelli who stands up a cross to the back-post where Alves was waiting.
he went for the spectacular, leaping off the turf and striking a bicycle kick into the back of Hong. Not bad athleticism for the ‘veteran’.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
85, South Korea almost gift away a goal but the angle is tight against Rodrygo, who’s cross is cut out by Seung-Gyu.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
83, South Korea continue to threaten late on.
Moon-Hwan slides in Lee Kang-In who drags his effort wide of the mark.
The Taiguk Warriors have done themselves proud this second half.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
79, Cho is played in behind, and once again Alisson is there, saving from point-blank range.
The flag is then frustratingly raised and that will be both players’ last contribution.
Cho, who has grown immensely in popularity this tournament, departs for Hwang Ui-Jo.
Alisson makes way for third-choice Weverton, the only Brazilian yet to feature. A nice touch from Tite.
Rodrygo is also on for Neymar.
GOAL! – Brazil 4-1 South Korea
75, Paik with a screamer!
The ball bounced kindly to the substitute who hit it beautifully on the half-volley. On the replays, it looked to take a tiny deflection, but fantastic technique nonetheless.
South Korea have their consolation, and they are winning the second half!

Brazil 4-0 South Korea
73, Richarlison is penalised for a body-check on his man and South Korea make a change.
Lee Kang-In is on for Lee Jae-Sung.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
72, Danilo and Vinicius are of for Selecao.
Bremer and Martinelli are on for the last 20 minutes or so.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
67, Alisson to the rescue again!
The Liverpool man gets a strong right hand to Hwang’s shot before Son is denied twice by a heroic Dani Alves block.
For a game that has been all about Brazil’s forwards, Alisson has produced an excellent performance in the sticks.
On another day, South Korea could have got a couple of goals.
Credit: Reuters
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
65, Raphinha is in again and cuts it back for Richarlison who can’t connect with the shot.
The flag is then raised for an offside in the build up.
The game has slowed, no doubt about it. Brazil will just want to keep everyone fit now.
Brazilian fans hold a banner showing the Brazilian soccer legend Pele with the message Get well soonCredit: AP
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
64, In-Beom looks tired as he departs, applauding the fans as he gos.
Paik is on.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
62, Raphinha’s shot is saved!
Casemiro escapes trouble with a back-heel on the edge of his own area and Brazil surge forward.
Neymar slides in Raphinha who does his man for pace before cannoning an effort at the legs of Seung-Gyu from a tight angle.
Meanwhile, veteran Dani Alves is on for Militao.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
59, Brazil can’t make the corner count and South Korea counter through Son, who is hunted down and fouled on the half-way line.
Hwang combines with In-Beom but Militao is there to evert the danger.
Credit: EPA
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
56, Jae-Sung has a nibble at Neymar’s heels and concedes the free-kick.
Raphinha’s effort takes a nick off the wall and it’s a corner ball.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
54, Raphinha denied by Seung-Gyu!
The Barcelona man wriggles one way then the next before bending a low shot on target.
Seung-Gyu gets down really well to parry it wide.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
51, South Korea are playing some nice intricate football but Militao shepherds the ball out for a goal-kick.
Some Brazilian legends including Roberto Carlos, Cafu and Ronaldo are then shown on the big screen. Each one brimming with pride.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
49, Casemiro cuts through South Korea with a defence-splitting pass.
He finds Raphinha who wins a corner, from which comes nothing.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
46, One long ball up field and Son is in.
He gets the right side of Marquinhos and curls one towards the corner.
Alisson hadn’t switched off and made himself big to deny the Tottenham man.
Credit: Getty
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JAPAN are facing Croatia in a huge World Cup last-16 clash RIGHT NOW – and they lead 1-0!Celtic star Daizen Maeda has fired Japan ahead on the stroke of half-time.
While Arsenal ace Takehiro Tomiyasu came in to start for Japan in the crunch clash with a place in the quarter-finals up for grabs.

Kick-off: 3pm
TV channel: BBC One
Live stream: BBC iPlayer
Japan XI: Gonda, Taniguchi, Endo, Doan, Morita, Nagatomo, J. Ito, Kamada, Tomiyasu, Yoshida, Maeda
Croatia XI: Livakovic, Barisic, Perisic, Lovren, Kovacic, Kramaric, Modric, Brozovic, Petkovic, Gvardiol, Juranovic

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50 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Japan’s pressure continues thanks to their high lines on the pitch.
Croatia have yet to find an answer to the Samurai Blue’s amazing speed and pace
49 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Chance
Croatia register their first opportunity in the first half with a long-range shot by Kovacic that just misses Gonda’s right post
48 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Lovren creates a dangerous situation for his own team as his weak headed pass to Livakovic almost sees Maeda getting there.
But the Croatian goalkeeper just beats the Japanese striker to it
46 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Chance!
Japan knock on Croatia’s door early in the second half with Kamada’s long-range shot that just misses the crossbar
46 Japan 1-0 Croatia
No changes from either side as we get things under way in the second half.
Reminding you that Japan lead with Maeda’s opener
Japan 1-0 Croatia
Peep!
Off we go again in Qatar!!!
Word from the ground
Here’s what SunSport’s man on the field Andy Dillon makes of the first half between Japan and Croatia:
Celtic striker Daizen Maeda has fired Japan in front and the World Cup’s self-appointed Samurais bid to make history.
They have never been beyond the last 16 in seven appearances.
In a gritty game with a potential quarter-final pop at Brazil at stake, there were few chances.
Croatia look particularly jaded but it still took an error at a set-piece for Japan to take the lead.
Three minutes before half time, Japan had two corners in succession. The second resulted in an outswinging cross which appeared to rebound off the back of Croatia’s Bruno Petkovic.
The loose ball fell to Maeda who swept the ball in from close range on the turn for his first World Cup goal.Andy DillonSunSport
Japan vs Croatia stats
Croatia dominated 59 per cent of possession in the first half but struggled with Japan’s counter-attack.
The Croats registered three shots, but only one of them was on target.
The Samurai Blue also produced the same stats in terms of shooting in the first half.
More below:

HT: Japan 1-0 Croatia
Japan lead 1-0 against Croatia after an impressive first half at the Al Janoub Stadium.
The Samurai Blue broke the deadlock on 43 minutes with Daizen Maeda.
Wataru Endo delivered a cross from the right and captain Maya Yoshida got his foot in to set Maeda up in front of Dominik Livakovic.
The striker then beat the Croatian goalkeeper with a clinical shot to set up another potential upset for the Japanese
Credit: AP
HT: Japan 1-0 Croatia
Peep!
Half-time in Qatar!!!
45 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Two more minutes of stoppage time to go.
VAR had a look for a potential offside after Maeda’s goal but nothing’s there.
There was a suspicion that Yoshida was offside in the build-up but nothing there
43 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Japan have broken the deadlock just before half-time.
Endo delivers a cross from the right and Yoshida gets his foot in the way to set Maeda up in front of Livakovic whom he beats with a powerful shot!

43 Japan 1-0 Croatia
Goal!
Japan open the scoring with Maeda!!!
41 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Chance!
Japan break into a speedy counter-attack and Kamada tries a shot from a tight corner down the left but sends it over the crossbar
38 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Tempo has really slowed down in the last few minutes…
It looks like both teams just want to go back to the dressing room with a clean sheet
35 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Neither team has created any danger for a while now…
The crowd is becoming louder but it is not as intense on the pitch
33 Japan 0-0 Croatia
The ongoing rhythm seems to be working in Japan’s favour as they are not dealing with any significant threat.
The Samurai Blue are much more dangerous thanks – you guessed it – to their counter-attacks
30 Japan 0-0 Croatia
We’ve reached the half-hour mark and it’s still goalless.
Croatia still hold the possession but Japan are extremely dangerous on the counter-attack thanks to their speed
28 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Croatia are especially dangerous with long balls from midfield.
The front three are always where they are supposed to be as they know how to find space in Japan’s defence.
Perisic, Petkovic and Kramaric always know where Modric wants to send the ball
25 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Croatia’s possession-based game kills Japan’s rhythm in a very effective manner.
Sometimes it also allows them to find space, just now Gvardiol found Petkovic with a stunning long ball but the striker failed to finish
24 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Chance
Croatia ace Gvardiol gets to a good position for a shot but sends the ball all the way up to the cheap seats
23 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Gvardiol goes down after a challenge with Doan with what appears to be a groin issue.
But thankfully the Croatia ace gets back up to his feet
20 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Japan ace Ito has been dominant down the right wing thanks to his speed and low crosses.
Barisic has been struggling against the wing-back, Croatia are not finding an answer to the Japanese players’ speed
18 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Doan appears to be a bit out of his element, because he didn’t come on as a substitute.
Struggling against Croatia’s midfield trio of Modric, Brozovic and Kovacic
15 Japan 0-0 Croatia
Croatia are dominating 62 per cent of possession but Japan are creating the threats.
Some strong counter-attacks by Moriyasu’s men, who are especially dangerous down the wings
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RAHEEM STERLING missed England’s 3-0 World Cup win over Senegal after thugs broke into his home.The thieves smashed into his home, as revealed by The Sun, forcing the Chelsea winger to fly back to the UK in the middle of the tournament.
England cruised to a 3-0 win over Senegal and will play France in the quarter-finals – after Les Blues dismantled Poland.
Brazil are expected to welcome Neymar back to World Cup action, after he was injured for their second two group games.
Keep up to date with TODAY’S live match blogs below:

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Stay tuned with all the latest ahead from tournament…
Bellingham’s bandage
Jude Bellingham cut a bandage off his arm after starring in England’s win over Senegal.
The Three Lions defeated the African champions 3-0 to seal a meeting with France in the World Cup quarter-final.

Bellingham was outstanding once again as he produced the assist for Jordan Henderson’s opener and started the move for the second goal with some stunning play.
The 19-year-old was substituted in the second half to save his legs for the next round, but he was still busy as he sat on the bench.
Bellingham cut a bandage off his upper left arm as he sat next to Trent Alexander-Arnold on the bench.
The Borussia Dortmund star fiddled around with a pair of scissors before eventually managing to tear the material off.
More Sterling details
England’s Raheem Sterling raced back from the World Cup yesterday after an armed raid at his mansion.
Terrified fiancée Paige Milian, 27 — at home with their two kids — raised the alarm after the gang took £300,000 of watches.
Sterling told FA chiefs he had to go home. News that he’d left the squad broke shortly before the last-16 clash with Senegal.
Sterling, 27, may return to Qatar for Saturday’s quarter-final against France.
Boss Gareth Southgate said: “He is dealing with a family matter. I had quite a bit of time with him this morning but I have had to pass that on to other people to help him with that.
“He will go and deal with that matter and we will have to take it from there.”
The raid at Sterling’s home, less than 15 minutes from Chelsea’s training ground in Cobham, Surrey, happened on Saturday night.
It is not known if property developer Paige confronted the raiders or whether they fled when they realised someone was in.
The gang may have thought she and the couple’s sons, aged five and three, were still in Qatar.
Before England’s first game she posted pictures of the two boys on a cruise ship in Doha, and she was tagged in social media images with cocktails.
Mbappe’s warning
By MARK IRWIN
Kylian Mbappe has fired an ominous World Cup warning after firing France into a quarter-final showdown with the Three Lions on Saturday.
The PSG superstar is now the tournament’s top scorer after his second-half double sealed a 3-1 win against Poland and took his goals tally to five.
And the powerful 23-year-old now has his sights set firmly on Gareth Southgate’s team as he targets a second World Cup winners’ medal.
He said: “This is the competition of my dreams and my only objective is to win the World Cup again.
“The most important thing for me right now is the quarter-final match. That is my only focus.
“I have been preparing for this competition all season both mentally and physically. I wanted to be ready and I am delighted to be here.
“We are still a long way from our ultimate objective which is to win the trophy. But we are delighted to win this game and get through to the quarter-finals.
“I have not come to Qatar to win the Golden Boot or the Golden Ball. If I get them I will be happy but that’s not what I am here for.
“I am here to help the French team to win the World Cup.
“Today was a difficult game against a very tough Polish side but we managed to score at the important moments.
“We showed good control even though we didn’t play as well as we could have. But we got the result and that is all that matters.”
France next
It’s Kylian Mbappe and France who await England next.
Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate is fully aware of what awaits.
“They’re an outstanding team with a phenomenal tournament record and some outstanding individuals. 
“Without doubt we have to find our highest possible level.”
Sterling situation
Raheem Sterling is heading home from Qatar, after The Sun revealed his home was burgled.
Sterling was initially withdrawn from England’s team against Senegal at the eleventh hour for personal reasons.
And now boss Southgate is unsure if Sterling will return.
He told ITV: “We’ll have to wait and see. The priority is for him to be with his family and we are going to support that. We’re going to leave him to have as much time as he needs. 
“He is going home.
“I really don’t know if he will return. It’s a situation he needs time with his family to deal with and I don’t want to put him under pressure. Sometimes football isn’t the most important thing and family should come first.”
Superstar Bellingham
Jude Bellingham produced another display beyond his years, as England swept Senegal aside 3-0.
And Southgate reserved some praise for the Borussia Dortmund midfielder, as well as the his other young guns.
Southgate told ITV “We have got some super young players we feel it’s been right to give them their head and opportunities. 
“Jude, Phil and Bukayo in particular tonight. They are heading in a really good direction and these games are brilliant life experiences for them. The progress they are making is phenomenal.
“The team made a very complicated game tonight look straight forward. That wasn’t the case but because of our mentality and attitude they’ve made it look that way.”
Kane breaks duck
England boss Gareth Southgate has spoken of the importance of Harry Kane breaking his World Cup scoring duck against Senegal.
Southgate revealed: “Any centre-forward wants to be off the mark and for him it stops questions.
“He started to find a bit more space in the second half and his link play was better as well.
“It was important for Harry and for us.”
Southgate pleased
Gareth Southgate was pleased with England’s ruthlessness and the way they worked off the ball.
He also reserved special praise for Jordan Henderson.
“The ruthlessness of our execution and the way the team worked off the ball,” Southgate told ITV Sport.
“We were a bit sticky with the ball in the first 25-35 minutes. Senegalhad a lot of energy, pressed well and their shape was good. And I felt our best opportunities came from winning the ball from them.
“Jude and Hendo in particular were outstanding in that aspect of the game.
“They are both forward running and thinking midfield players. Hendo doesn’t get many for us but he’s been outstanding. 
“He’s such a leader, he knits the team together and around the camp he is brilliant. His performances have been top drawer.”
Sterling burglary
Raheem Sterling was forced to race back from the World Cup today after burglars smashed into his home, The Sun can reveal.
The Chelsea ace pulled out of England’s last-16 tie with Senegal after learning of the invasion at his Surrey pile on Saturday night.
A spokesperson for the FA said Sterling would not play in the game.
The statement read: “Raheem Sterling is not available for selection for the #ThreeLions tonight as he is dealing with a family matter.”
The shock announcement came just hours before the Three Lions were due to kick off against the African Cup of Nations champs.
Asked at a pre-match press conference why Sterling was left off the team sheet, England Manager Gareth Southgate said: “He’s dealing with a family matter.
“I had quite a bit of time with him this morning but I have now had to pass that on to other people to help him with that.
“He’s going to go and deal with that matter. And then we will have to take it from there really.”
Sterling is expected to return to Qatar as England head into a quarter final clash with France next Saturday.
Peep Peep!
England are through.
The Three Lions have made short work of African Cup of Nations champs Senegal – winning 3-0.
Jordan Henderson set the ball rolling, Harry Kane added a second, while Bukayo Saka put the icing on the cake.
It’s France next. Bring on Mbappe… gulp.
Gomez ‘fine’
Argentina midfielder Papu Gomez has shrugged off injury fears ahead of Friday’s huge World Cup quarter-final against Holland.
The Sevilla star admitted he sprained his ankle as he was taken off in the 2-1 last-16 win over Australia.
But the 34-year-old insists he will be “fine” for what could be one of the games of the tournament.
Dreamland for England
It’s three!
And that’s three goals for Bukayo Saka in this World Cup too.
Now that really is game, set and match now – surely?
England can dream of the last eight now.
Deschamps rages at Kounde
France boss Didier Deschamps was RAGING with defender Jules Kounde after he was forced to remove a GOLD NECKLACE during their 3-1 win over Poland.
The 24-year-old began the match with the jewellery on and it was visible to those watching on TV, with many flagging it on social media.
When asked about the matter, he said: “He has no right. I don’t know what he has on his chain, I know that Jules has a bit of a superstition, he has it in training.
“I don’t know the meaning. I even told him – ‘You’re lucky you’re not in front of me, or else…’.
“The referee had told us that as soon as there was a stoppage in play… players are not allowed to wear a bracelet or a necklace. They’re not going to start wearing watches or sunglasses either.
“It’s not allowed. I thought he was taking it off but apparently that wasn’t the case.”
One foot in the quarters
It’s now 2-0 to the Three Lions and there’s delirium around the nation.
And finally Harry Kane has broken his World Cup duck – firing home.
On the half-time whistle too.
Surely there’s no coming back for Senegal now?
1-0 England!
Jordan Henderson has given England the lead after 38 minutes.
Fantastic finish from the Liverpool midfielder – who burst into the box and slid the ball low in the corner.
Jude Bellingham with the assist.
Come on England!
Giroud’s not going to stop
By MARK IRWIN
Olivier Giroud insists he is not going to stop at 52 after breaking Thierry Henry’s French goal record to fire his country into the World Cup quarter-finals.
The 36-year-old AC Milan striker set his team on their way to a 3-1 victory over Poland before a double from Kylian Mbappe finished the job in style.
Wife Jennifer and their four children were all at the Al Thumama Stadium to see him making history and he said: “It’s a childhood dream to beat Thierry Henry like that. 
“A lot of people told me it was coming, but now my obsession is to go as far as possible with this team.
“Now the adventure continues. We have had to show solidarity and unity to get this far and the team has been rewarded for its efforts.”
Delighted French coach Didier Deschamps said: “Olivier has always been an important player for us, even four years ago in Russia when he didn’t score.
“He has had some difficult periods in his career and has often been criticised but he has always stayed strong mentally and now we are seeing his quality.
“He has broken a very difficult record held by Henry and to score so many goals at international level isa great achievement.
“But now there is another boy in Kylian Mbappe who might break that record one day and perhaps he has a better understanding now with Olivier.
“Four years ago we played a 4-4-2 with Kylian more on the right, but now they are closer together and I don’t mind if it doesn’t work as long as we can get the same results as in 2018.
“Both players need each other because a striker like Olivier likes to play with Kylian because he likes laying balls off for him.
“Kylian didn’t have his best match tonight and he knows that but he is a player who can change a match in just a moment.
“He always plays with joy and we all want to share those smiles. France needed a great Kylian Mbappe and tonight we got one.”
Belgium players go home
Five Belgium players reportedly took earlier flights home to the rest of the squad after crashing out of the World Cup,
The Red Devils exited the tournament in the group stage after failing to beat Croatia in their final match.

Roberto Martinez’s side created plenty of chances against the 2018 finalists but were unable to find a clinical finish.
Some of the players were visibly devastated at full-time, with Romelu Lukaku having to be consoled by assistant manager Thierry Henry.
The draw left Belgium in third place, with Morocco finishing top and Croatia going through in second place.
Throughout the duration of the tournament, there have been reports of unrest in the team’s dressing room.
Why Sterling is missing
England are taking on Senegal in the World Cup as they aim to reach the quarter-finals.
Though star man Raheem Sterling will be playing no part for the Three Lions.

Raheem Sterling is not available for England’s World Cup clash with Senegal as he is dealing with a family matter, the FA have confirmed.
The Chelsea ace has been a mainstay in the national team ever since Gareth Southgate took charge back in 2016.
Sterling started both of England’s games against Iran and USA but was then benched for the 3-0 win over Wales.
The 27-year-old has scored 21 times in 80 times in total.
Suarez parting shot at Fifa
Luis Suarez aimed a parting shot at Fifa as he exited what will almost certainly be his final World Cup.
The controversial Uruguay striker, 35, was furious at the way his team’s matches have been officiated after they slipped out of his fourth tournament on goals scored on Friday.

Portugal’s second goal against them last week was scored via a penalty for handball which many claim should not have been given.
And as they chased extra goals in their 2-0 win over Ghana on Friday they were denied two  penalties by German ref Daniel Siebert, taking charge of just his second World Cup match.
Suarez also said he was stopped from seeing his children at the end.
The former Liverpool forward said: “It seems that Uruguay has to have more power, Fifa is always against Uruguay.
“After the game I wanted to see my children and the Fifa people told me, ‘No’ — yet a player from France was with his children on the bench.
“The people of Fifa and the Referees Committee have to give explanations as to what they are basing the obvious penalty decisions on that are being taken. On Friday, they didn’t give us two.”
Saka and Foden to start
Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka are set to start against Senegal tonight.
Manager Gareth Southgate is keeping Foden in the team while he is also poised to bring Saka back into the starting XI for the last-16 clash.

And that is heartbreak for Marcus Rashford, who has scored three times this tournament including two against Wales.
And it is also a blow for Raheem Sterling who was pushing for a place after failing to feature in the 3-0 win over Wales.
Football fans will be pleased that Foden keeps his place for the last 16 clash.
Saka started the first two games and will now be fresh as England look to reach the quarter-finals.
Unstoppable
There is no stopping that man.
Kylian Mbappe has two, curling another effort into the top corner, which Wojciech Szczesny got a hand to but couldn’t keep out.

He has 16 goals in his last 14 games for his country. He’s 23.
It’s 3-0 and that’s surely that.
Alcohol-free Irish pub
This is surely a first.
Next door to England’s hotel in Al Wakrah is Irish bar Bennigans.

We’re no experts, but this has to be the world’s first non-alcohol selling Irish bar?
Wenger backs England
Arsene Wenger says England have what it takes to win the World Cup – and predicts they are only going to get better.
The former Arsenal boss, now Fifa’s global head of football development and head of the Qatar 2022 technical study group, believes Gareth Southgate’s men can go all the way.
Wenger said: “The big teams have turned up at this World Cup.
“Like the rest of them, England have been inconsistent in the group phase.
“They were absolutely outstanding in the first game against Iran but then struggled in the second game against the USA.
“Then they came back when needed against Wales to give a convincing performance.”
Wenger added: “They have been up and down, like all of the big countries.
“But I would say that England are one of the countries that has learned a lot from their recent competitions.
“They were in the last four in 2018 and then reached the final of Euro 2020.
“Contrary to someone like Belgium, who have passed their peak, England look a team that is now at their peak to deliver and has learned. And it is still a young team.
“Gareth Southgate is a very intelligent man and he is capable of analysing  all the games and the performances as a team and as individual players.
“He is like his team. 
“Gareth has learned from the World Cup and the Euros and is now in a situation to deliver.”
Wenger’s verdict on England was backed up by Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann, who said: “The England situation is fascinating because you can see the progression from Russia and the Euros, when you thought they were right there to win it and found the last piece was missing.
“But Gareth Southgate has only one goal here and that is to bring the trophy home.
“This is a new phase of the competition. Once the knock-out phase starts it’s a completely new tournament.
“You have a different mental approach. It switches something in your brain and turns it on.
“If you don’t feel 100 per cent right on the day, it can all go with one mistake or a set-piece.
“But this is what you live for. 
“I wish England good luck because we can all see the progression.
“They are coming. The team is very deep with high quality players who perform in the best league in the world, because the Premier League IS apart from all the other top leagues in Europe, everybody watches all the superstars.
“It’s a good time to deliver now.” 
Wenger, who appeared to suggest that first round flops Denmark, Belgium and Germany had allowed themselves to be distracted by off-field issues in Qatar, presented a statistical review of the  opening stage which confirmed some emerging trends.
Goals direct from open-play crosses are up 83 per cent on Russia four years ago, goals from outside the box are markedly down and the development of goalkeepers as critical release valves has grown exponentially.
Wenger added: “From what we have seen so far, the team with the best wide players will win the tournament.
“But we have also seen the importance of the goalkeeper as a playmaker.
“Most of us inside the game have long considered the keepers as a union apart but now they have to be viewed as a crucial part of any team. 
“Passes to the keeper have more than doubled. They are the first link. That is the modern evolution of the game.”
What a strike
Kylian Mbappe’s thunderous strike puts France 2-0 up.
And that looks like it’s game, set and match with just 15 minutes left.
He now has eight World Cup goals to his name – more than Pele.
Ferdinand bumps into Ji-sung
Rio Ferdinand and Park Ji-sung reconnected in Qatar while the pair were visiting for the World Cup.
The duo played together during the Red Devils’ successful years under former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferdinand grabbed a selfie with the former South Korean midfielder as he was on while taking a break from his punditry work.
In the picture the pair are smiling, although Park does look a lot smarter in his suit compared to Ferdinand’s white t-shirt.
Ferdinand posted the picture with the caption: “Good to see my guy Park Ji-sung.”
Fans loved the picture of the two as it was ‘liked’ over 120,000 times on Instagram and many were happy to see the midfielder again.
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