Curacao gaolie, Elem Room made 15 saves to secure the first World Cup points for his country. After losing heavily to Germany, Curacao made up with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador.

Ecuador misses the opportunity to move to 2nd spot in Group E and will face Germany in their final game of the group. The Germans have secured qualifications to the Round of 32 after coming from behind to defeat Cote d’Ivoire 2-1. Two second half goals from Deniz Undav cancelled out Frankie Kessie’s 30th minute opener.

The Ivoriens would hope to beat Curacao in their final group game in Philadelphia. A win for Curacao would take them to the next round. That would be an achievement for the Caribbean side.

I watched the first game yesterday at the Fan Festival in Mexico City. It was a beautiful experience, with the FIFA brands ensuring that there was fun for everybody. Participated in the Football Tennis competition and won twice – my highlight of the tour so far. My partner was a Mexican who came there with his mum.

We watched Netherlands defeat Sweden on the big screens. A brace each from Brain Brobbey & Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch a 4-0 lead before Anthony Elanga pulled one back for the Swedes. Gyokeres had a lot of shot on target but the Dutch goalie was on point. Summerville made it 5-1.

The final game last night was historic. It was the 1000th game in the history of the FIFA World Cup. Japan ensured it was entertaining with a 4-0 win over Tunisia. Herve Renard’s return didn’t go as planned.

Today, it is Spain vs Saudi Arabia, Belgium vs Iran, Uruguay vs Cape Verde and New Zealand vs Egypt. Will Cape Verde shock Uruguay? Will Spain get their first win?

Predictions: Spain 3-0 Saudi Arabia, Belgium 2-1 Iran, Uruguay 0-1 Cape Verde, New Zealand 1-3 Egypt.

Thank you Mexico for the hospitality. Time for New York.

Photocredits: X