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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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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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ENGLAND have sailed through into a World Cup quarter-final against France after putting Senegal to the sword.Gareth Southgate and his boys deserve all the credit in the world after showing their class against their African opposition.
Bukayo Saka, Jordan Henderson and Harry Kane scored the goals as the Three Lions won 3-0.
France are up next on Saturday night!

Result: England 3-0 Senegal
England XI: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Henderson, Bellingham; Saka, Foden, Kane
Senegal XI: Mendy; Sabaly, Koulibaly (c), Diallo, Jakobs, Ciss, Mendy; Ndiaye, Diatta, Sarr, Dia

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Team mate shocked at news
Senegal captain, Kalidou Koulibaly, was in complete shock when told of the news of Raheem Sterling:
I really didn’t know. I’m really surprised. I hope his family is good. Now I will call him and see what happened to him. But I hope he will be good and his family is good.Kalidou KoulibalySenegal
Senegal player ratings:
E Mendy 5
Sabaly 6
Koulibaly 6
Diallo 5
Jakobs 4 (Ballo-Toure, 84, 4)
I Sarr 6
N Mendy 5
Ciss 5 (Gueye 46, 6)
Diatta 6 (P Sarr, 46, 5)
I Ndiaye 5 (B Dieng, 46, 5)
Dia 6 (Diedhiou, 72, 5)
Kane scores on and off the pitch
Harry Kane silenced the critics as he scored his first goal in an England shirt in open play this year.
Dropping deeper, looking to link the midfield and attack, Kane scored well into added time at the end of the first half to send England 2-0 before the interval.
He celebrates the win with a kiss with wife Katie Goodland.

Always a keen Walker
Football is over, time to get back to parent responsibilities for England’s Kyle Walker.
He can enjoy the victory today but next weekend he will have a more willing runner to look after in the form of Kylian Mbappe.
Let’s hope he is up to that test just as much.

England player ratings:
MARCUS RASHFORD (for Saka, 65mins) – 6
A few bursts of pace to keep Senegal on their toes as match petered out
JACK GREALISH (for Foden, 65mins) – 6 
As against Wales, kept possession well without threatening much.
ERIC DIER (for Stones, 77mins) – 6
An uneventful run-out but useful if he is to be called upon against France.
MASON MOUNT (for Bellingham, 77mins) – 6
Pressed high to keep Senegal from having a sniff of a consolation.
KALVIN PHILLIPS (for Henderson, 82mins) – 6
Gained a few more minutes on the pitch as Southgate rested legs.
Security checks Harry’s forward burst
If only the host nation’s football team could have shown defence as tight as the stadium security.
England’s Harry Maguire was stopped from seeing his family and friends.
I’ve never seen so many shirts saying ‘Maguire 6’.

Southgate praises midfield display
The England manager was asked what pleased him most in the display against Senegal:
“The ruthlessness of our execution and the way the team worked off the ball.”
“We were a bit sticky with the ball in the first 25-35 minutes. Senegal had 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.”
Credit: Alamy
England player ratings:
BUKAYO SAKA – 7
Justified his starting place by playing his part in first-half operation to stop Sarr and then finally making his presence felt at the other end by scoring third.
HARRY KANE – 7
Fed off scraps until his fine through ball to Bellingham led to opener. Broke his tournament duck at perfect time and became a creative hub as England took control.
PHIL FODEN – 8
After finding it hard to get into game, burst into life to start move for opener then tee up Kane for second and Saka for third. Like Saka, repaid Southgate’s faith.
England player ratings:
JORDAN HENDERSON – 8
Worked his socks off pressing the ball and shutting off passing lanes, then burst through to ease England nerves with opener. Should silence critics with a big-game performance.
DECLAN RICE – 8
England’s steady Eddie kept his head while some about him were losing theirs. Full of running and heart as England’s midfield turned the game and saved the day.
JUDE BELLINGHAM – 9
Actually faded a bit after powerful start, but came good again in style to drive England to victory. Fine run and cross for first goal, superb to create second, excellent all round.
England player ratings:
JORDAN PICKFORD – 7
Important one-handed save from Boulaye Dia when Senegal were on top. A much less worrying second half. Distribution improved from group stage . 
KYLE WALKER – 7
Lucky to escape first-half booking for foul on Ismaila Sarr. Otherwise did a decent job on the dangerman but that restricted his impact at the other end. Bring on Mbappe!
JOHN STONES – 6
Looked on edge, uncharacteristically careless with the ball and headed decent chance over bar in first half. Improved in second, but pressure was off by then.
HARRY MAGUIRE – 6
Tested by Senegal’s pace from early on and loose pass led to Sarr chance that should have been buried. Like Stones, will have to show more grace under fire.
LUKE SHAW – 7
Did what he had to do, and a lot more calmly than his centre backs. Had less to worry about on his side than Walker and so was able to offer a bit more going forward.
Hey Jude, don’t let me down
England’s young midfielder Jude Bellingham absorbs the World Cup buzz, sat in the middle of the pitch after the game.
Bellingham, put in a solid shift and his partnership with Henderson and Rice was the foundation for this England win.
Maybe he’s checking his Sun World Cup Dream Team.

French test for Three Lions
England will now face reigning champions France in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The game will kick-off at 7pm, taking place in this exact stadium on Saturday.
Fans can follow the action here, to see if Gareth Southgate’s side can move one step closer to ‘bringing it home’.
Bell of the ball
Jude Bellingham is quickly turning himself into one of world football’s hottest properties.
The Dortmund midfielder has stood out from that first group game against Iran and hasn’t let his levels drop since.
Playing a slightly different game, he found himself out on the left a lot but England utilised this to their advantage.

Sterling home broken into
News has broken that Raheem Sterling was forced to return home from the World Cup after his home was ransacked by burglars.
The Chelsea attacker has returned to the UK to deal with his family matter but is expected to return to Qatar.
That being said, Southgate has pointed out:
“He’s going to go and deal with that matter. And then we will have to take it from there really.”
Jordan shines in Middle East
Much-maligned England midfielder, Jordan Henderson, silenced his critics this evening with another stand-out performance.
The Liverpool man kept his place off the back of his performance against Wales but certainly delivered today.
His partnership in the centre of midfield with Jude Bellingham was the difference this evening.
While England may have ended up winning the game comfortably, the midfield trio of Rice, Henderson and Bellingham contributed to the win more than anyone.
Credit: Getty
FT: England 3-0 Senegal
A dominant victory for England in terms of possession and shots on target.
For their part, Senegal could have scored themselves but just lacked the clinical-edge the Three Lions had.

FT: England 3-0 Senegal
The referee blows his whistle to end the game.
England are into the quarter-finals of the World Cup.
There will be some sore heads in work tomorrow.
England 3-0 Senegal
90+2. So England will take on France next Saturday.
Games don’t get much bigger than that.
Rice is penalised for a studs-up challenge, giving Senegal a free kick on the edge of the box.
Credit: Getty
England 3-0 Senegal
90. We are going to have four additional minutes.
The England fans continue to sing ‘Jerusalem’.
England come forward once again.
Shaw’s cross finds Rashford who can only find the side-netting.
England 3-0 Senegal
88. It is all about game management now for England.
Keep the ball, pass it around, take the result.
Three goals and a clean sheet in the knockout rounds of tournament football is something anyone would take before the game.
England 3-0 Senegal
86. Mount is penalised for an unnecessary foul.
Senegal continue to come forward, testing the England defensive capabilities.
They have won a corner.
Pickford claims the cross all too easily.
England 3-0 Senegal
84. Whoever has been on these drums for the last few hours, deserves their break at the end of this game.
It has been non-stop.
Jakobs comes off for Ballo-Toure.
England 3-0 Senegal
82. Jordan Henderson leaves the pitch for Kalvin Phillips.
Great applause for Henderson as he comes off the pitch.
Kalvin Phillips by the end of this game may have played for minutes for England than he has Man City.
Credit: PA
England 3-0 Senegal
80. We are into the final ten minutes of the game.
Grealish is happy to run at the Senegalese players still.
He feeds it out wide and Rashford whips a low cross looking for Kane.
Kane slides in but cannot make contact.
Close.
England 3-0 Senegal
78. Luke Shaw takes a free kick from a wide position.
He finds Maguire deep in the box but his header is easily cleared.
Senegal trying to retain possession more now.
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ENGLAND face their biggest game of the World Cup so far as they take on Senegal for a place in the quarter-finals of the competition.Gareth Southgate will have his usual selection headache to work out following Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden’s goals against Wales.
But the Three Lions will be bouyed by the news that Idrissa Gueye won’t be in Senegal’s midfield through suspension.

Start time: 7pm GMT
Live stream/TV: ITV1/ITV X
England XI: To follow
Senegal XI: To follow

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Read More World Cup News

How did they get here?
England began their campaign in thrilling fashion as they thrashed Iran 6-2, with young Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka picking up two goals.
After a disappointing draw with the USA, the Three Lions secured top spot in the group after beating rivals Wales 3-0, leaving the Dragons to finish bottom of the group.
Senegal had a harder start to life in Qatar, losing their opener to Netherlands due to two late goals.
However, wins over hosts Qatar as well as a tightly fought battle with Ecuador meant that Senegal had qualified for the Round of 16 for the first time since 2002.
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Team news
England are set to have a fully fit squad for their last-16 match-up with Senegal, barring Ben White’s early return home.
Southgate, however, may decide to hand Marcus Rashford a start following his brilliant performance in the win over Wales.
Foden also impressed, but Bukayo Saka could come back into the side, as could Mason Mount, who dropped to the bench in favour of Jordan Henderson on Tuesday night.
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Kieran Tripper may also come back into the XI alongside Kyle Walker, but that would most likely see England’s system change from a 4-3-3 to one that favours five at the back.
Senegal will also have a mostly fit squad butkey man Sadio Mane will be OUT of the game, having been ruled out the tournament with a knee inury.

Who will be the star men?
Southgate will have a selection headache after standout performances from many of his players so far.
But Harry Maguire has been one of the surprise packages this tournament, being a rock of stability at the back as well as a potential goal threat from set pieces.
Maguire’s Manchester United team-mate Rashford has also shone, netting three times whilst sitting joint first in the race for the Golden Boot.
But he will face tough competition for his spot with the likes of Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden also on great form.
Ismaila Sarr has seemed to fill the void of Sadio Mane for the Senegalese team, looking like a constant threat up top as well as scoring a cheeky no-look penalty against Ecuador.
Chelsea duo Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly will also be looking to keep out the goals as they hope to advance to the quarter-finals.
Marcus Rashford scored a brace against WalesCredit: AP
What is the head to head?
This will be the first meeting between the two sides.
England will be looking to continue their unbeaten streak against African nations at the World Cup which has seen them win six and draw three.
When is England vs Senegal?

England’s World Cup last-16 clash with Senegal will take place TODAY – Sunday, December 4.
The match will get underway from 7pm UK time.
England vs Senegal will be held at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar.
The stadium holds just under 70,000 fans and played host to England’s 0-0 draw with USA.

Captain Koulibaly has made the most tackles for Senegal
What channel is it and can it be live streamed?

England vs Senegal will be shown live on ITV 1 in the UK.
You can live stream the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
Coverage of the game will get going from 6pm GMT.

Can I watch for FREE?

Yes, you can watch England vs Senegal for FREE, so long as you have a TV licence.

Read More on The Sun
Odds

England – 8/15
Draw – 29/10
Senegal – 13/2
England to qualify – 1/5
Senegal to qualify – 10/3

*Odds courtesy of Betfair and correct at time of publication.
History favours Southgate’s squad
England have never faced Senegal before, only once have they faced an African side in the knockout rounds, defeating Cameroon 3-2 after extra time in the quarter-finals of the 1990 tournament.
The Three Lions have previously played African nations in the World Cup seven times and remain unbeaten (W4, D3).
African sides have lost eight of their nine World Cup knockout matches against European nations, though Senegal were the exception in 2002 when they defeated Sweden 2-1 in the ‘round of 16’.
Credit: AP
Credit: Getty
Three Lions ooze confidence
Having never lost to African opposition in 20 previous international matches, England will be looking to make it 21 today in Al Khor.
With it being Senegal’s second only appearance in the knockout phase, they will be looking to make a statement against Gareth Southgate’ side.
The Lions of Teranga have a number of players playing their trade in England who will be more buoyed up than ever to cause a shock result.
Atmosphere building
It’s hours before kick-off and England fans are making themselves heard in Al Khor…
Credit: PA
Credit: PA
Credit: Reuters
Aliou’s race against time
Senegal manager Aliou Cisse is trying to return to full-fitness himself in time for this evening’s last 16 crunch showdown with England.
The Lions of Teranga have been without their manager for training and media duties as he reported feeling unwell with fever like symptoms.
Senegal have said they are confident he will be on the touchline for the game but only time will tell.
Assistant coach Regis Bogaert has been leading training in his absence.
England lead way in Qatar
The Three Lions will have to break a 20-year curse to win the tournament.
England finished the strongest in the group stages with seven points and a goal difference of plus seven, better than any other side in Qatar.
Recent history suggests the best performers in the group stages rarely go on to win the World Cup, with the last side to do so being Brazil in 2002.
Credit: Getty
Tough choices ahead for boss
Able to rotate the team in their last match against Wales, the players Southgate granted some game time to, really stood up to the plate and performed against Rob Page’s Welsh outfit.
Jordan Henderson, Marcus Rashford, Phil Foden and Kyle Walker all put in shifts that will make it hard not to pick them for today’s game.
Southgate now has a selection headache with Raheem Sterling, Mason Mount, Bukayo Saka and Kieran Trippier all waiting in the wings.
Credit: Getty
Gareth with point to prove
Coming into this tournament, things were not feeling too positive for the Three Lions, having been relegated from the top tier of the UEFA Nations League.
Two defeats against Hungary really underlined the form of Southgate’s side with many fans not holding much hope for a stellar showing in Qatar.
Their opening 2022 World Cup fixture saw them hammer Iran 6-2, suddenly waking fans from their slumber.
A dreary 0-0 draw against the USA followed before England beat Wales 3-0 in their final group game.
Welcome to England vs Senegal
Hello and welcome to SunSport’s live coverage of England vs Senegal at the World Cup!
The Three Lions face a huge last-16 stage clash against the Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal, who came second in their group.
Aliou Cisse’s side, however, are resolute and will pose Gareth Southgate’s men problems all over the pitch, particularly on the left with Watford man Ismalia Sarr.
The Lions of Teranga also have Chelsea duo Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly in their ranks, but will be without Idrissa Gueye through susepnsion.
And, as has been the case all tournament, star man Sadio Mane is missing.
For England, Southgate will have his usual selection headache to deal with.
Which of Rashford, Saka, Foden, Sterling and Mount does he start?
England beat Wales 3-0 to top their group as they finished with more points than Brazil, France, Portugal, Spain, Germany and Belgium.
But today they’ll face their toughest test yet in Senegal, though England are undefeated in their last 21 outings against African opponents.
Win and England will set themselves up with a quarter-final clash against the winners of France vs Poland.
So sit back and enjoy the action – we’ve got you covered at SunSport Towers.
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OLIVIER GIROUD has become France’s all-time leading goal-scorer in his side’s World Cup clash with Poland. The AC Milan striker missed a sitter early on but has now passed Thierry Henry to top his country’s scoring charts by making it 1-0 against Poland.

Start time: 3pm GMT
Live stream/TV: BBC One/iPlayer
France XI: Lloris; Kounde, Varane, Upamecano, Theo Hernandez; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Mbappe; Giroud
Poland XI: Szczesny, Bereszynski, Glik, Kiwior, Cash, Krychowiak, Zielinski, Szymanski, Frankowski, Kaminski, Lewandowski

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France 1-0 Poland
50. Poland need to try and find a way to get Lewandowski into the game more.
France will try and make it difficult for that to happen.
The Barcelona striker is having to get all around the pitch looking for the ball, not in areas where he can hurt France.

France 1-0 Poland
48. Griezmann takes the free kick from a wide position.
He goes for goal but Szczesny is equal to it.
Varane nearly got an awkward touch to that.
France 1-0 Poland – Bereszynski yellow card
46. More of the same is required of Poland in this half.
They will be hoping to create the number of chances they did in the first half.
Bereszynski is given a yellow card for a foul on Dembele.
Kick-off: France 1-0 Poland
Poland get the second half started.
They have it all to do.
Big 45 minutes ahead.
Inside the ground – half time analysis
SunSport’s Mark Irwin reports from Qatar:
Well we’ve just seen history being made by Olivier Giroud netting his 52nd international goal to become France’s all-time record scorer.
The veteran striker took Kylian Mbappe’s through ball on the turn to beat his former Arsenal team-mate Wojcicech Szczesny and to put the world champions on course for a potential quarter-final clash with England.
As we expected, Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele have been running riot down the wings but it hasn’t all been one-way traffic.
Piotr Zielinski had a glorious opportunity to fire Poland into a 38th minute lead, but Hugo Lloris marked his own piece of French history with a terrific point-blank save before Raphael Varane cleared the follow up off the line.
Lloris is winning his 142nd cap tonight, another French national record, but there’s still plenty of work to be done before he can be certain of extending that appearance record here in Qatar.
HT: France 1-0 Poland
The tables have turned for Poland now.
No time to try and massage your goal difference in the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
Czesław Michniewicz has to rethink his tactics now as they need to find a way back into this game.
The positive for Poland is that they have created more chances in that first half than they have in the rest of the tournament.
Sadly, their chances so far have fallen to everyone bar Lewandowski.
Credit: Reuters
HT: France 1-0 Poland
France lead at half time at the Al Bayt Stadium.
They have shown some defensive weakness in that first half but a moment of magic from Mbappe and Giroud separates the teams.

HT: France 1-0 Poland
The referee brings the half to a close.
We have witnessed a piece of history here.
Olivier Giroud is France’s record goalscorer.
France 1-0 Poland – Kaminski chance
45+1. As the cross comes in, it falls at the feet of Kaminski.
He gets a shot away which deflects and misses the post by inches.
Lloris was scrambling there.
France 1-0 Poland
45. Mbappe plays a neat pass through to Giroud.
He knows where the goal is as he spins and shoots.
The ball nestling into the bottom corner, clinical.
We are going to have two minutes added.
Goal – Olivier Giroud (France)
France 0-0 Poland
43. Kounde holds up play as he has to take his gold chains off.
Fortunately he is not like Mr T or we could have been here all day.
Added time has been quite a player in this tournament already.
France 0-0 Poland
41. Well Poland certainly gave France a scare there.
It should give the Poles some confidence to attack Les Bleus.
They are not made of stone and do look nervy when under pressure at the back.
Credit: AP
France 0-0 Poland – Zielinski chance
39. What a chance for Poland.
The ball is cut back from the byline and Zielinski meets it on the penalty spot and puts his foot through it.
Lloris makes a great save.
The ball allows a second effort for Poland but Varane clears the ball from behind his keeper.
France 0-0 Poland
37. Corner comes in from France but Poland cannot clear the ball completely.
It drops to Giroud with his back to goal, so obviously he tries an overhead kick.
The ball loops up for Szczesny to gather but he is taken out by Dembele.
France 0-0 Poland
35. This is the best phase of play I have seen in this World Cup from Poland as they spend some time in French territory.
Aston Villa’s Matty Cash meets the ball on the edge of the box but his effort goes well wide.
Positive stuff from Poland.
France 0-0 Poland
33. Poland have a free kick after a foul by Tchouaméni which also results in a yellow card.
Lewandowski stands over the ball.
His effort is driven straight into the wall, terrible effort.
France 0-0 Poland
31. Poland have no doubt achieved their first goal.
30 minutes and no goals conceded.
Side note, pretty sure I have seen my last three Wi-Fi passwords on the back of the Polish tops.
Credit: Getty
France 0-0 Poland
29. The empty seats seem to be full now.
Dembele is fed into space in the box and all he has to do is find Giroud on the back post.
The Barcelona man puts too much pace on his ball and Giroud cannot convert.
France 0-0 Poland
27. France clear the ball and manage to find Mbappe.
The speed when he gets going is just insane.
It is like the Polish defenders are wading in quick sand.
France 0-0 Poland
25. Poland are starting to get forward more.
They have looked negative in the tournament to date.
Maybe they were waiting for the knockout rounds to impress.
France 0-0 Poland
23. It seems it is Kounde’s turn to test Szczesny.
All too easy for the Juventus keeper.
Not sure if they are looking to test the Polish shot-stopper or simply cannot get closer to the goal.
Credit: Reuters
France 0-0 Poland
21. Midfield could be an area where this game is won today.
Poland are dropping so deep when France have the ball that their centre midfielders have all the time in the world.
The Poles counter attack and the ball finds its way to Lewandowski who shoots from distance with Lloris at full stretch.
Not too far wide that one.
France 0-0 Poland
19. From what we have seen from Poland so far, their best bet of getting a result today is to take this to penalties.
They struggle to connect play in the final third yet again.
Poland just look disjointed when they are doing anything but defending.
France 0-0 Poland
17. Rabiot is penalised for a foul on Krychowiak.
Poland gift away possession again and France attack.
Dembele cuts inside and looks to shoot but does not connect well enough to test Szczesny.
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LIONEL MESSI has fired his team into the quarter-finals of the World Cup as Argentina survived a late Australian fight-back.Messi, playing in his 1,000th career game, made it 1-0 in the first half before Julian Alvarez doubled Argentina’s lead.
Craig Goodwin then got one back for the Socceroos but they held on for a 2-1 win and a place in the World Cup last eight.
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Goodnight from Ahmad bin Ali Stadium
That’s all from us – and it’s all from Australia at Qatar 2022.
The Socceroos have fought brilliantly at the World Cup, their team spirit greater than the sum of their parts.
And after escaping a group that included France, Denmark and Tunisia, they almost – almost – took Argentina to an extra half hour in the Last 16.
However, on a memorable night for Lionel Messi, the captain ended up dragging La Albiceleste through to the quarter-finals, where they will meet the Netherlands.
Two more quarter-finalists will be decided tomorrow, and we hope that they will include England, who face Senegal at 7pm.
You won’t miss a kick with us here at SunSport so join us for Three Lions action as well as the day’s earlier clash between France and Poland.
Until then, thanks for joining us and goodbye.
A majestical performance from Messi
His 1000th senior game proved to be a memorable one.
Lionel Messi scored his first ever goal in the knockout stages of the World Cup, picked up FIFA’s player of the match award, and carried his team into the quarter-finals.

Minutes: 90
Touches: 75
Goals: 1
Big chances created: 2
Key passes: 4
Pass accuracy: 90%

How Argentina’s two legends compare
Lionel Messi can never be compared to Maradona until he wins the World Cup is an argument that is readily trotted out by the bloke in the pub, but just how do the two Argentina greats match up?
Well, thanks to those loveable stats nerds at Opta, we have some indication; the graphic below demonstrates just how close some of their numbers actually are.
Should Messi go on and propel La Albiceleste to glory just as Diego did in ’86, then surely that would see him elevated to God-like greatness.
Credit: Opta
Extra! Read all about it!
‘The best individual display by any player at this World Cup’ was how Rio Ferdinand described it on the BBC, but how did Oscar Paul see Lionel Messi’s performance? Check out his match report of Argentina’s 2-1 victory against Australia to find out.
He left it until his 1,000th game – but boy was it worth the wait. Lionel Messi had gone seven games, 12 hours and 23 shots without scoring for Argentina in the World Cup knockouts. Christ, even Matthew Upson managed one! Oscar PaulThe Sun

A date with the Dutch
The first quarter-final of Qatar 2022 is now known, and it’s a fixture steeped in World Cup history.
Think of Argentina against the Netherlands, and you think of the Dutch thumping La Albiceleste 4-0 in Gelsenkirchen in ’74, Mario Kempes and co. gaining revenge in the final on home soil four years later, and Dennis Bergkamp, Dennis Bergkamp, Dennis Bergkamp, Dennis Bergkamp at France ’98.
The next instalment will take place in the last eight of this year’s tournament.

Netherlands v Argentina (Friday, 7pm)

Match stats from Ahmad bin Ali Stadium
The numbers suggest a dominant Argentina display, but Australia were never out of this game until the final whistle.

Full time – Argentina 2-1 Australia
The full time whistle goes, and it’s Argentina that go through to face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals.
The Argentine defenders leap on Emi Martinez at the full time whistle in gratitude for saving Garang Kuol’s final kick, and denying Australia a shot at extra-time.
Who would have thought that La Albiceleste would have been so thankful for their goalkeeper when 2-0 up and cruising?
They’ll need other players to step up to help Lionel Messi if they are to go on and win the tournament, but for now they only care about celebrating their place in the last eight.

Argentina 2-1 Australia
90+7. Kuol makes space in the box! It’s a chance for Australia!
Saved by Emi Martinez at point-blank range!
The teenager goes so close to taking the game to extra-time, but the Argentina goalkeeper comes up with a big save at a big moment!
An incredible ending!

Argentina 2-1 Australia
90+5. The Argentine players are tired, but the Aussies are exhausted.
There’s so much space now that a final Argentina goal should be inevitable.
Messi, De Paul and Lautaro Martinez exchange passes before Ryan denies the latter, and the former steers the rebound wide.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
90+4. Messi almost caps his 1000th game in sublime style.
On this occasion he aims his left-footed curler from the edge of the box towards the top corner, and is only inches away.

Argentina 2-1 Australia
90+3. Leathering the ball into the middle of next week isn’t the only thing Ryan can do, he’s also a fine shot stopper.
He demonstrates as much by denying Lautaro Martinez at point-blank range after the hapless substitute was set up again by you-know-who.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
90+2. Ryan receives the ball and gives it the full welly treatment that would have Dave Bassett’s Wimbledon proud.
I think we know how Australia are going to play these final minutes.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
90. Souttar makes a nuisance of himself in the Argentina box, and it’s enough to see a foul called against him.
The defender looks as though time has run out on him, but the announcement of seven minutes stoppage time has offered renewed hope.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
88. Mooy loses possession on halfway, and Argentina have the chance to seal the tie on the break.
Messi does brilliantly, running at three defenders and then releasing at exactly the right time.
Lautaro Martinez should score, but instead spoons his effort well wide of the far post.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
86. Argentina settle down and play keep ball.
They realise all they have to do now is keep cool heads.
Argentines, of course, are well known for the keeping of cool heads…
Argentina 2-1 Australia
85. Five minutes remain.
Five minutes of normal time, that is.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
84. Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez try to usher Argentina up the field, but when each are denied by rugged defending, they throw themselves to the floor to no avail.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
82. The corner is repelled by Argentina but only as far as Hrustic outside the area.
The substitute takes a touch to steady himself, and the curls a yard over the crossbar.
Australia aren’t done here by any means.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
80. What a run! What a tackle!
An incredible solo run from Aziz Behich past four Argentina players looked to have taken him in on goal, only for a superb block from Lisandro Martinez to block his effort behind for a corner.
That would have been one of the all-time great World Cup goals had the Dundee United man managed to finish.

Argentina 2-1 Australia
79. How do Argentina play this now?
They were in complete control until that freak goal.
Argentina 2-1 Australia
77. Well, who saw this coming?
Certainly not Emiliano Martinez, who is beaten by a huge – and I mean HUGE – deflection.
Craig Goodwin’s strike from the edge of the area is going wide and over until it clatters into Enzo Fernandes to deceive the Argentina goalkeeper.
It will inevitably go down as an own-goal, but Australia don’t care. For the final 13 minutes, they have hope!

Hello!

Argentina 2-0 Australia – Australia treble substitution
73. And now a triple switch for the Aussies.
The incomers include Garang Kuol, the exciting 18-year-old forward who has already agreed a move to Newcastle in January.
Also on are Jamie Maclaren, formerly of Hibs, and Fran Karacic; off have gone Matthew Leckie, Milos Degenek and Mitchell Duke.
Argentina 2-0 Australia – Argentina double substitution
72. Lionel Scaloni makes two further changes with Marcos Acuna and, scorer of the second goal, Julian Alvarez going off.
On in their places are Nicolas Tagliafico and Lautaro Martinez.
Argentina 2-0 Australia
70. The cameras pan to Tim Cahill in the stands.
The former Australia midfielder is sitting with the two seats either side of him vacant, presumably so he can’t catch anyone with a cheeky elbow while the referee’s back is turned.
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NETHERLANDS are firmly in command of their World Cup last-16 clash with USA. Memphis Depay opened the scoring, sweeping home after a fine passing move.
And Daley Blind made it two just before half-time in what looked like a carbon copy of the first goal.

Start time: 3pm GMT
Live stream/TV: BBC One/iPlayer
Netherlands XI: Noppert; Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Roon, De Jong, Blind; Gakpo, Klaassen, Depary
USA XI: Turner; Dest, Zimmerman, Ream, Robinson; Musah, Adams, McKennie; Perreira, Weah, Pulisic

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50. Netherlands 2-0 USA
Cleared off the line by the Netherlands!So close for the USA and Tim Ream!The ball goes into the middle of the Dutch box and falls at the feet of Fulham’s Tim Ream, he stabs an effort at goal and beats Noppert, but it is cleared off the line.
48. Netherlands 2-0 USA
It is a front two of Depay and Bergwijn now for the Dutch, with Gakpo playing in the number 10 position.
This is the attack that Memphis Depay was calling out for, so we will see if he can add to his goal tally now that he has his wish.
46. Netherlands 2-0 USA
Changes for both sides…
Christian Pulisic has moved into the false nine position, and Ferreira is off to be replaced by Gio Reyna, who the US fans have been screaming out for.
For Netherlands, Van Gaal has made two changes.
De Roon and Klaasen are off, and are being replaced by Koopmeiners and Bergwijn.
What a way to open
We have an update for you from SunSport reporter Neil Custis, who is a huge admirer of the first Dutch goal, as am I, this is what he had to say…
“What a brilliant goal it was at the Khalifa to give Holland the lead against the USA on ten minutes.
“Critics of the Dutch style, of which there are many back home in the Netherlands, could not argue with this fantastic move finished off by Memphis Depay.
“It involved 20 uninterrupted passes, the most by a Dutch team at a World Cup since these statistics began being recorded in 1966.
“The defence to attack move finished with Cody Gakpo spreading the ball wide to Denzel Dumfries who spotted Depay had slowed his run to hang just inside the area unmarked.
“He picked him out and the Barcelona man’s first time finish from 16 yards with his instep was perfect, across Matt Turner and into the far side of the goal.
“After being out injured with a hamstring injury since mid-September, Memphis has had to be eased into this tournament by Louis van Gaal. But he is up and running now.”
Dutch courage
This is what the match stats look like at half-time…
It could have been so different when Christian Pulisic got through on goal in the first two minutes, but he was denied by Noppert.
The Dutch soaked up the pressure, and struck twice with precision against the USA before half time.
Ultimately it is a footballing lesson from the Dutch thus far, and a comeback looks unlikely.

HT. Netherlands 2-0 USA.
The referee calls the first half to a close as we had just ONE minute of added time.
That has to be a record at this tournament, right?
Daley Blind made it 2-0 to the Netherlands just before half-time.Credit: Reuters
45+1. Netherlands 2-0 USA
Almost a carbon copy of the first goal, and Martin Lipton sums up my thoughts of the goal…
“Same move, same goal. Just a different scorer.
“Blind of all people able to ghost in late and plonk the ball past Turner with the last kick of the half.
“Feels like that’s the end of this one.
“Various incarnations of Captain America in the crowd look like they are ready to throw their shields in.”
45+1. Netherlands 2-0 USA
It’s two! It’s Daley Blind!
45. Netherlands 1-0 USA
End to end stuff.
A great bit of play from the USA found Serginio Dest in the middle, but he was unable to pick out an attacker to strike the ball at goal.
The Dutch again fled towards the USA goal with Cody Gakpo, but his pass at the final moment towards Depay was cut out by Zimmerman.
42. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Chance for USA!
Great strike from Timothy Weah, who resembled his Dad with a strike like that from outside the box.
Really powerful effort, hit on the half volley, that was well saved by Noppert.
40. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Better from the US, who drive down the right -side with Timothy Weah, but again it is let down with the final ball.
This time it is Christian Pulisic, who picked the ball up in the Dutch box and played a poor ball away from Antonee Robinson.
38. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Apart from that opening chance that really should have seen them take the lead, it has been a toothless performance from the USA.
They look pretty good until the ball gets into the final third, at which point the final pass and a deadly finisher are both missing in action.
34. Netherlands 1-0 USA
The Netherlands are a puzzle that the USA simply cannot work out at the moment.
They are constantly trying to build attacks down the middle of the pitch, and are used to their high intensity game being matched by their opponents.
But, the Netherlands have been clever, and are just sitting off of the USA and forcing them to play their way.
32. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Jordan Davies, who is at the game has his say on criticism towards the Dutch team which was directed at Louis van Gaal, and how they have reacted to that…
“Dutch boss Louis van Gaal has been on the receiving end of some pretty heavy criticism during this World Cup for his team’s dull and predictable style of play.
“But that goal was a blast from the past, during the days of Joahan Cruyff and Total Football.
“Memphis Depay’s goal ended a sequence of TWENTY uninterrupted passes, the most on record for Holland at a World Cup since 1966.”
28. Netherlands 1-0 USA
We have another update from Martin Lipton in Qatar, who just wants to ensure that you all (and I) are clear on his feelings towards the Mexican Wave, and the Netherlands performance…
“Some people – I potentially include Lloyd Canfield in this – may be labouring under a misapprehension about my feelings towards large groups of people standing up and sitting down in order around the perimeter of a stadium.
“Suffice to say, no punishment would be harsh enough, in my book.
“Meanwhile, US fans rediscovered their patriotism, it seems. 
“But the Dutch drummer is belting out a more hopeful beat at the moment.
“You can see why.
“All extremely comfortable for van Gaal’s side.”
That is from Martin Lipton, Chief Sports Reporter for The Sun and part-time Mexcian wave hater.
26. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Weston McKennie as the spare player in midfield needs to start driving with the ball when he picks it up.
They are starting to look a bit timid on the ball and afraid of going forwards, perhaps because they know what the Netherlands can do to them on the break.
24. Netherlands 1-0 USA
The Netherlands are controlling the tempo of this one now, and are letting the USA come at them with Timothy Weah and Serginio Dest on the right-hand side.
It will be interesting to see how the game changes if the US can get a goal back.
20. Netherlands 1-0 USA
It’s always good to see that your opinion on a game is backed up by an expert, and Martin Lipton’s analysis on this one from Qatar backs up our previous post, this is what he had to say…
“Dutch are happy to let the US come at them.
“Even happier now they’re in front.
“Depay and Gakpo are pretty confident they have at least one more between them on the counter if their side can win the ball back high enough.
“Oh…and it’s Mexican Wave time, again. Deep joy.”
That is from Martin Lipton, SunSport reporter and Mexican Wave enjoyer.
18. Netherlands 1-0 USA
They will play at their tempo now, and won’t be rushing things against the USA.
The USA look eager to get the equaliser and have started the game well, despite conceding early.
They are just missing that final ball…
16. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Tempers are flaring for the USA already, as we know thanks to Jordan Davies, who is also at this one…
“What people may not have noticed was an angry United States boss Gregg Berhalter confronting one of Holland’s sub keepers for running into his technical area to celebrate the goal.
“The States bench was livid. The fourth official had a word with the opposite dug-out.
“Tempers already flaring in what has been an entertaining match-up so far.”
That is from Jordan Davies, who is live in Qatar at this game.
14. Netherlands 1-0 USA
This is Martin Lipton’s reaction to the goal, as we get his eagle-eyed analysis from the stadium in Qatar.
“Americans sliced to pieces by incisive passing and a terrific finish.
“You may say they got sucked in to the six-yard box when Dumfries got away down the right to pull back but the timing of Memphis Depay’s run and quality of his strike as he swept home were peerless.
“Sense of shock and awe for US fans, too.
“That’s the first time they’ve been behind all tournament. Dutch have found their voice.”
12. Netherlands 1-0 USA
What a goal that is, textbook, training ground stuff from the Netherlands.
They glide down the pitch in a vintage Barcelona-style attack, before finding Denzel Dumfries on the right-hand side of the box.
He cuts it back for Memphis Depay who arrives in the box late and sweeps the ball into the corner.
Brilliant team goal.
10. Netherlands 1-0 USA
Against the run of play, Netherlands are swept in front by Memphis Depay!
8. Netherlands 0-0 USA
The bright US start continues, as Christian Pulisic drives down the left hand side and gets a good ball into the middle for Weah.
The American is beaten to it and the Netherlands spring an attack on the US defence, but Memphis Depay’s shot is scuffed.
6. Netherlands 0-0 USA
An early update from Martin Lipton who is out in Qatar watching this one, as he reacts to that early Christian Pulisic chance:
“The Americans came out of the blocks fast in all three group games and it’s already a similar story here.
“Pulisic will know he should have scored when the flag rightly stayed down – Blind, slow out on the far side, played him on – but the shot was at the keeper. 
“Chelsea fans may not have been shocked.”
That is from Martin Lipton, who is at the game in Qatar.
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BRAZIL stars Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles have reportedly been ruled OUT of the World Cup with injuries. The Arsenal star suffered a knee injury against Cameroon, while the Manchester United left-back also hobbled off in the 1-0 defeat.
But Brazil have been handed boost with Neymar set to return to action.
The Paris Saint-Germain superstar suffered ankle ligament damage in Brazil’s opening game against Serbia which fans feared would rule him out of the whole tournament.
But a video went viral last night of the Brazilian magician doing some muscle work in the gym – trying to regain fitness for the knock-out stages.
One side that will not be in the last-16 is Uruguay having lost out to South Korea on goal difference and forward Edison Cavani took out his frustration by PUNCHING a VAR monitor after the game.

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Gabriel Jesus statement
Brazil shared a statement confirming Gabriel Jesus’ injury will not allow him to play in the 2022 World Cup.
A Brazil statement read: “As announced by the Brazilian FA after the game against Cameroon, players Alex Telles and Gabriel Jesus underwent tests on Saturday morning.
“Accompanied by the Brazilian National Team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, they underwent an MRI on the right knee that confirmed the injuries and the impossibility of recovery in time to participate in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
“The coordinator of the Brazilian National Team, Juninho Paulista, is in contact with the sports directors of Arsenal and Sevilla to define whether Alex Telles and Gabriel Jesus remain with the squad in Doha to continue the treatment or return to their clubs”
Ronaldo tempted by Chelsea
Cristiano Ronaldo has been linked with a move to Chelsea after his dramatic departure from Manchester United.
Ronaldo has had two major offers from Saudi Arabian clubs Al Nassr and Al Hilal earlier on this week.
But reports suggest that the Blues’ owner Todd Boehly has held talks with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s super agent Jorge Mendes.
And the Portugal international is “tempted” by the move
‘Polish Mourinho’
Poland manager Czeslaw Michniewicz has been getting World Cup advice from Jose Mourinho, Max Allegri, Steven Gerrard and Xavi on how to beat the French, writes SunSport’s Mark Irwin.
Michniewicz has been revelling in his ‘Polish Mourinho’ nickname after pulling off a defensive master class to steer his nation through to the last 16 in Qatar.
He said: “When I hear all the criticism, I can only smile. Because all the teams who were not defensive and let their opponents score easily in the group stage are already back at home and watching on TV.
“We were good at defending and our reward is a game against the world champions. If we can win against France, we could become the next champions.
“The comparisons with Mourinho are out of date but I will just tell you that football is all about winning trophies and being successful.
“I have spoken with Mourinho, Allegri, Xavi, Steven Gerrard, Fabio Cannavaro and all the other coaches who have helped to prepare my players so well for this tournament.
“And I hope this is not my last chance to thank them from the bottom of my heart. We always dreamed of leaving the group phase and we don’t care about any opinions of our team.
“The fourth of December in Poland is Barborka, the miner’s national holiday, and we will do our best to celebrate the day with victory against a wonderful opponent”
New FA chair
Debbie Hewitt, the Football Association’s first female chair, combines a strong business background with proper football knowledge, writes SunSport’s Dan King.
Hewitt, 59, remains on the board of Visa Europe and other blue-chip firms.
But among the interesting things to emerge from a reception at the British Embassy in Doha was the fact that the lifelong Liverpool fan also knows the words to England’s 1982 World Cup song “This Time (We’ll Get It Right)”.
Maybe the FA have done just that by appointing someone who sees what needs to be done AND has the skills and experience to do it
Credit: Splash
Ready to Go
Kick-off is steadily approaching as Holland and the US look to become the first country to book a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
After a crazy week of group stage football, can the last-16 keep up with the drama?
Follow every twist and turn with our live text commentary here.
Staying Put
Gabriel Jesus will stay put with the Brazil team for now while his injury is assessed.
Reports this morning suggest the striker will miss the rest of the World Cup – but it is not clear how severe his knee problem is.
ESPN’s James Olley reports: “Gabriel Jesus is expected to remain with the Brazil squad in Qatar for the time being while the full extent of his injury is determined. Further updates expected in due course.”
Lee’s Big Role
LEE CARSLEY has played a key role in preparing England for today’s last 16 clash with Senegal, writes SunSport’s Dan King.
The Under-21 boss was given the task of scouting the African champions and presenting his findings to Gareth Southgate and his backroom team.
Southgate has consistently given opportunities to fellow English coaches to be part of the senior set-up.
In 2018, then Under-21s manager Aidy Boothroyd joined the team for the World Cup in Russia just weeks after leading the Three Lions to victory in the Toulon Tournament.
Last summer, Newcastle assistant head coach Graeme Jones came on board and proved a popular and effective member of the group.
Senegal Blow
Senegal have suffered a World Cup blow with manager Aliou Cisse ill on the eve of their round of 16 clash with England.
The 46-year-old has been unwell for the last couple of days and did not take his side’s pre-match press conference.
Start your engines
Poland striker Arkadiusz Milik reckons there’s only one way to stop Kylian Mbappe tomorrow – and it involves a motorbike.
The French forward has been in outstanding form this tournament and will be looking for his fourth goal of the World Cup against Poland.
Milik said: “How do we stop him? With scooters!
“He is one of the best players in the world and he is so fast that it will be difficult to keep up with him without a motor bike.
“So we need to play collectively and have very good co-operation because no-one will be able to stop him on their own.”
Van Gaal on the defence
Louis Van Gaal had to launch another staunch defence of his tactics ahead of this game with criticism in Holland of his negative, dull style.
And he has made clear he is wary of the threat the US pose.
The ex-Man United boss said: “The USA is a very energetic squad, with physically strong players and that is tough for any opponent and you can tell that from their results.
“I think that they have evolved well. It’s typically American I would say, that they evolve rapidly and have many players in top European clubs so it goes without saying they would perform and achieve these results.”
Line-Ups
Holland are unchanged from the team that beat Qatar as they look to get through the USA.
While Christian Pulisic starts after sustaining a blow while he scored against Iran. The USA make two changes with Walker Zimmerman and Jesus Ferreira in for Cameron Carter-Vickers and Timothy Weah
Holland: Noppert; Timber, van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, de Roon, de Jong, Blind; Klassen, Gakpo, Depay
US: Turner; Dest, Zimmerman, Ream, Robinson; Musah, Adams, McKennie; Ferreira, Weah, Pulisic
More goals, Cody?
It could be a fairly tight and competitive encounter between Holland and the US in today’s afternoon last 16 game.
One who could make the difference is PSV star and Manchester United target Cody Gakpo, who has three goals in three games so far. The teams will be revealed soon.

Guess Siu
Harry Maguire has included the recently-departed Cristiano Ronaldo in his five-a-side team.
The centre-back is enjoying a good tournament in the World Cup and said he would still include the Portuguese star despite his messy exit from Manchester United.
Maguire told England’s Youtube Channel: “Stonesy [John Stones] at the back. I’d go for Harry Kane up top, whenever we play five-a-side he’s top goalscorer every time.
“I’d put Cristiano [Ronaldo] in there. Those two together, you’ve won the game already. I’d put myself in there. And then I’d go with a midfielder, I’d go with Declan Rice. He protects everything doesn’t he.”
Hero Concern
Pele has been moved to palliative end-of-life care in hospital, according to reports.
The footballing icon, 82, is said to no longer be responding to chemotherapy as he battles with bowel cancer.
Pele was taken into hospital on Tuesday and now Folha in Sao Paulo state he will no longer be subjected to invasive tests or treatment. 
The three-time World Cup has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment since September 2021.
Read more on the developing story here.
Bell of the Ball
Emmanuel Petit has declared himself a fan of rising star Jude Bellingham after his brilliant World Cup performances.
The former Arsenal midfielder told Midnite: “I love Jude Bellingham. He’s the mix between Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. He’s very mature, and his body language on the pitch is tremendous.
“He can do so many things on the pitch so for me, he’s one of the best players [in his position] in the world right now.”
The Special 1,000
Lionel Messi is set to play his 1,000th game in professional football when Argentina take on Australia today.
The 35-year-old genius is arguably the best player of his generation and continues to stun fans weekly even at the later stage of his career.
With 778 games for Barcelona and 53 matches for current club PSG, his 169th cap for Argentina today will lead to the big milestone.
The magician has had a mixed tournament so far, scoring a brilliant goal against Mexico last week before missing a penalty against Poland.
Telles’ Pain
Alex Telles looked devastated as he left the pitch against Cameroon yesterday.
The Manchester defender, on loan at Sevilla, had his head in his shirt as a knee injury left his limping off as he was subbed.
Reports this morning suggest both the full-back and Gabriel Jesus are set to miss the rest of the tournament for Brazil.

‘I fear England the most’
Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has admitted fearing England “the most” in the World Cup knockouts.
The former midfielder thinks his native France will not want to play against the Three Lions.
Speaking to Midnite, Petit said: “I fear England the most. There are four teams that are different for me, there’s England, Brazil, Spain and France. They’re the teams that have shown something different.
“Gareth Southgate has received so much criticism recently but I have confidence in him. England have improved and it’s very difficult to win big tournaments. I’m not sure if Southgate will still be England’s manager after the World Cup but it’s time for England to make a point and he is doing the right things.”
Time After Time
THE clampdown on time-wasting at the World Cup has resulted in over TEN HOURS of additional time being played in the group stages in Qatar.
And research by Midnite can reveal that in total that has meant 640 minutes of stoppage time have been played already in 2022’s World Cup.
That equates to enough time for seven full 90 minute matches being played, which would be enough to contend a whole group consisting of four teams, with a game to spare.
That has already surpassed the amount of added time played at Russia 2018 throughout the entire tournament, in 18 fewer matches played.
Dutch Courage v American Dreams
It’s the first last-16 clash this afternoon as Holland take on the USA from 3pm.
It is set to be first ever competitive meeting between the sides after five friendlies previously.
In that collection, the US only have one win (4-3 in 2015) but will be hoping to extend that record this afternoon.
Gregg Berhalter’s side have impressed at this tournament and escaped a difficult looking group.
They and Holland are one of only five nations yet to taste defeat across the ridiculously bonkers group stages.
With Louis Van Gaal looking to drag his nation to the first ever World Cup, do they have enough to get past America? And will Cody Gakpo score again?
Jesus Wept
Brazil pair Alex Telles and Gabriel Jesus have been ruled OUT of the World Cup, according to reports.
The Arsenal star suffered a knee injury against Cameroon, while the Manchester United also hobbled off in the 1-0 defeat.
Telles was withdrawn early in the second period on Friday, while the Arsenal man came off 10 minutes later.
According to Brazilian outlet Globo, the pair will play no further part in Qatar, with South Korea to come on Monday in the last-16.
The Elite Club
Xherdan Shaqiri joined an exclusive club last night by scoring against Serbia.
The former Liverpool ace was on target as his country won 3-2 to secure a place in the round of 16. Shaqiri, 31, became just the third player to score at the last three World Cup finals in a row.
The only other two to have matched that feat are Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Shaqiri, now of Chicago Fire in MLS, was part of Switzerland’s squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa aged 18.
He failed to score that time around, receiving only 12 minutes of action – but he has put that right since in Brazil, Russia and now Qatar.
Rashford MUST start tomorrow
Jack Wilshere has come out batting for Marcus Rashford to get a start against Senegal tomorrow. 
Gareth Southgate is spoilt for choice after multiple players put themselves in the frame with an impressive second-half showing against Wales. 
Wilshere exclusives says in the Sun: “Marcus didn’t play for England for 16 months from that final to the Iran game but he is right in the groove now and I would definitely start him against Senegal tomorrow.
“When we played against Australia [in 2016, on Rashford’s debut], Marcus didn’t actually have that good a good game but he had the knack of doing something special even if he was slightly off his game.”
Read Wilshere’s rave review of the Manchester United star here.
Southgate’s Handbrake
England fans should not expect to see teams stuffed with attacking players anytime soon, according to pundit Graeme Souness.
He said in the Mail: “We got a little insight into how Gareth Southgate’s football brain works — and how he sees football — when England played Wales this week.
“With the greatest respect to Wales, if you couldn’t be proactive that night, then whenever could you be? We’re talking about a game which had as little jeopardy as you’ll ever get in tournament football. The only risk England had of not qualifying that night was by losing 4-0.”
“Don’t expect to see England minus the handbrake any time soon unless they’re chasing a game. Don’t expect to see a great deal of [Mason] Mount, or anything of [James] Maddison.”
England vs Senegal referee confirmed
El Salvador chemistry professor Ivan Barton is set to be in charge for England’s World Cup last-16 clash against Senegal.
Barton, 31, impressed with his officiating in Germany’s 2-1 loss to Japan.
And has now been rewarded with the chance to ref at his first ever World Cup round of 16 tie.
SunSport have all the info needed for England vs Senegal
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