Uruguay face Spain in Guadalajara on Friday in what is being described as the standout fixture of Group H at this year’s World Cup. While Spain have already secured qualification and are strongly placed to finish top of the group, Uruguay arrive under pressure after a difficult start that has left their progression hopes uncertain.

The Opta supercomputer currently gives Uruguay a 36.4% chance of advancing to the next round, compared with Spain’s 84.7% probability of topping the group. Uruguay also carries a concerning record in Mexico, having won only one of their last nine World Cup matches there, alongside three draws and five defeats, with their only victory in that span coming against the USSR in 1970 after extra time.

Uruguay searches for answers under Bielsa

Marcelo Bielsa’s side have struggled to convert performances into wins this tournament, drawing both of their opening matches despite opportunities to secure better results. They were held by Saudi Arabia in their first game before being involved in a surprise 1-1 draw with Cape Verde, where Kevin Pina’s free-kick and Helio Varela’s equaliser cancelled out Agustín Canobbio’s opener.

These results have placed Uruguay in a precarious position, with the team having only once previously drawn three consecutive World Cup matches between 2002 and 2010. After being eliminated in the group stage in 2022, they now face the possibility of missing out on the knockout rounds in consecutive tournaments for the first time, which would mark an unwanted shift in their World Cup record.

Last 5 Uruguay matches stats

Spain’s confidence is growing after strong start

Spain arrives in far more comfortable circumstances after a dominant 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, a match in which Lamine Yamal opened the scoring before Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice quickly and an own goal completed the result. Luis de la Fuente’s team have now won their final group-stage match at every World Cup between 1986 and 2014, although they failed to do so in the last two editions.

Defensively, Spain have been particularly impressive, keeping clean sheets in each of their last three World Cup matches and recording one of the best clean-sheet rates of any team in the 21st century, at 48 percent (14 of 29 matches). They have also conceded very few chances recently, facing just 21 shots across their last four World Cup games, including matches against Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, Morocco, and Japan, highlighting their defensive control.

Last 5 Spain matches stats

Head-to-head history and key statistical storylines

The two sides will meet in the World Cup for the third time, with their most recent encounter coming in a 0-0 draw in the 1990 group stage, while their only other meeting was a 2-2 draw in 1950.

Spain’s defensive solidity could be crucial against an inconsistent Uruguay attack that has shown sharp contrasts in efficiency, scoring once from 10 shots on target against Saudi Arabia before converting both of their on-target efforts against Cape Verde. Spain also has a rising attacking threat in teenager Lamine Yamal, who became one of the youngest goalscorers in World Cup history at 18 years and 343 days and could join Pelé as one of the few teenagers to score in consecutive World Cup appearances if he finds the net again.

Past H2H Results

Prediction and expected outcome

Spain enters this match as clear favourites thanks to their strong start to the tournament, defensive solidity, and superior statistical profile compared to Uruguay. Luis de la Fuente’s side have kept clean sheets in their last three World Cup matches and have conceded very few chances recently, which suggests they are well-equipped to contain a Uruguay attack that has been inconsistent in front of goal. Uruguay, meanwhile, have struggled to turn performances into wins, drawing both of their opening group games and showing mixed efficiency in front of goal across those matches. Marcelo Bielsa’s team will need a sharp improvement in finishing if they are to trouble a Spain side that has controlled games comfortably and limited opponents to very few shots. Spain’s attacking quality, highlighted by the emergence of Lamine Yamal and the form of Mikel Oyarzabal, gives them the most likely route to breaking the deadlock.

Prediction: Uruguay 0-2 Spain

Expected outcome: A controlled Spanish victory built on defensive discipline and clinical finishing, which would secure their position at the top of Group H while leaving Uruguay in a difficult position and dependent on other results to keep their knockout hopes alive.

Norway and France will meet in Boston on Friday with first place in FIFA World Cup Group I still to be decided. Although both nations have already secured qualification for the last 32, finishing at the top of the standings remains significant because the winners will face a third-placed team in the next round, while the runners-up are set to play the second-placed side from Group E, which is expected to be either Ivory Coast or Ecuador.

The fixture also brings together two of the tournament’s most prolific forwards. Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé have each scored two braces in their opening two matches, placing them alongside Lionel Messi in what is developing into a remarkable contest for the Golden Boot. Weather forecasts indicate that storms could once again affect proceedings, adding another layer of uncertainty to the encounter.

Haaland followed his double against Iraq with another two goals in Norway’s 3-2 victory over Senegal. Should he score at least twice again, he would become only the third player to record multiple goals in each of his first three World Cup appearances, matching achievements previously set by Guillermo Stabile in 1930 and Sándor Kocsis in 1954.

Norway set for changes after Senegal win

Norway head into the match after collecting as many victories in this World Cup as they managed across their previous three appearances combined. Their success over Senegal came at a physical cost, however, as several players suffered from cramps late in the game, leaving the team down to nine men after all substitutions had already been used.

Head coach Ståle Solbakken has confirmed that rotation is expected because of the short recovery period and the condition of several squad members. He explained that changes are necessary to keep the team fresh, while also suggesting it would be difficult to predict his starting lineup.

The Norwegians are also waiting to learn the condition of Julian Ryerson, who was forced off after only 13 minutes against Senegal. Marcus Pedersen replaced him and went on to score the opening goal, providing an immediate impact from the bench.

Last 5 Norway matches stats

France chasing a perfect group stage

France approach their final group fixture after a 3-0 victory over Iraq, a match that included a 130-minute interruption because of storms. Mbappé scored twice in that game to move onto 16 goals from 16 World Cup appearances, drawing level with Miroslav Klose on the competition’s all-time scoring list. Lionel Messi, meanwhile, has raised the overall record to 18 goals after scoring five times in his first two matches of this tournament.

Les Bleus will be without head coach Didier Deschamps on the touchline after the French Football Federation confirmed he had returned home following the death of his mother. Assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take charge of the team for the meeting with Norway.

France also received a boost before the match as Malo Gusto recovered from a foot injury to make his first appearance of the tournament against Iraq. His return gives him the opportunity to compete with Jules Koundé for the right-back position.

Last 5 France matches stats

History and records add extra intrigue

This contest will mark the 16th meeting between Norway and France and their first since France recorded a 4-0 victory in a friendly played in Paris in May 2014. Norway have managed only two wins from the previous 10 competitive encounters, with their last success coming in a European Championship qualifier in Oslo in June 1987.

France have the chance to complete three victories from three group-stage matches, something they have achieved only once before at a World Cup. That came during the 1998 tournament on home soil, when they eventually lifted the trophy.

The historical statistics also favour France in another area. Norway have never defeated another European nation at the World Cup, drawing twice and losing three of their five such matches. France, meanwhile, has won each of their last five World Cup meetings with European opponents, including victories over England, Croatia, and Belgium.

Past H2H Results

Prediction and expected outcome

Norway and France appear evenly matched on paper, but France may hold a slight advantage thanks to their greater tournament pedigree and the depth of quality throughout their squad. Kylian Mbappé’s outstanding scoring form gives Les Bleus a decisive attacking weapon, while Norway will again look to Erling Haaland to make the difference in front of goal. With both teams already through to the knockout stage, tactical discipline and squad rotation could play a significant role in determining the outcome. Norway have shown they can compete with top opposition, but France’s experience in high-pressure World Cup matches could prove decisive in key moments.

Prediction: Norway 1-2 France

Expected outcome: A closely contested encounter in which France edge a high-quality battle to finish top of Group I, while Norway head into the knockout rounds with plenty of confidence despite a narrow defeat.

A significant Group F encounter awaits at Dallas Stadium on Friday as Japan and Sweden meet with an important placing in the standings on the line. The team that comes out on top will strengthen its position heading into the knockout phase of the World Cup.

Japan currently occupies second place in the section and has yet to lose at the tournament. Their campaign began with a 2-2 draw against group leaders the Netherlands before they produced an emphatic 4-0 victory over Tunisia, who have already been eliminated.

The Japanese side rescued a point against the Dutch thanks to Daichi Kamada’s dramatic 89th-minute strike, while the midfielder also opened the scoring early against Tunisia. Ayase Ueda netted twice in that contest, and Junya Ito added another goal as Japan comfortably secured three points.

With both Japan and the Netherlands already guaranteed a place in the round of 32 according to the Opta supercomputer, the focus now shifts to finishing positions. Sweden is also strongly placed, with a 91.9% chance of advancing from the group.

Japan chasing another milestone

Hajime Moriyasu’s team know that avoiding defeat would allow them to complete only their second unbeaten group-stage campaign at a World Cup, matching the achievement they recorded as hosts in 2002.

Confidence is already high within the squad thanks to an ongoing nine-match unbeaten streak across all competitions. Their recent World Cup record has also been impressive, with two victories and two draws from their last four matches.

Another positive result would place Japan among a select group of Asian nations. Only South Korea has previously gone five consecutive World Cup matches without suffering defeat, achieving a six-game sequence between 1998 and 2002.

The attacking contributions have come from all areas of the team. Eight different Japanese players have already been involved in goals at this tournament, equalling the country’s highest total from a single World Cup edition, which was also achieved in 2022.

Last 5 Japan matches stats

Sweden looking to recover

Sweden’s journey through the competition has been far less consistent. Graham Potter’s side made a spectacular start by defeating Tunisia 5-1 but then experienced the opposite outcome when they were beaten 5-1 by the Netherlands in their second fixture.

That combination of results placed Sweden in a unique historical category. They became only the second nation to both win and lose a World Cup match by at least four goals during the same tournament. The previous occurrence also involved Sweden back in 1938.

Although the scoreline against the Dutch was heavy, the statistics revealed a different story. Sweden allowed only 10 shots, but seven efforts were on target and five ended up in the net, highlighting an area Potter will want to address before facing Japan.

The Scandinavian side still possess considerable attacking quality and remain in a strong position to progress. Their performances in front of goal have ensured they remain firmly in contention for a favourable route through the knockout rounds.

Last 5 Sweden matches stats

Previous meetings and players to watch

Friday’s contest will mark the first World Cup encounter between Japan and Sweden. The nations have met five times before, beginning with their memorable clash at the 1936 Olympic Games, when Japan recovered from a two-goal deficit to claim a 3-2 victory in what became known as the “Miracle of Berlin”.

Since that success, Japan has not managed to defeat Sweden in four subsequent meetings. Their most recent match came in May 2002 and ended in a 1-1 draw.

Japan has also enjoyed encouraging results against European opponents in recent World Cup competitions. Since the start of the 2022 tournament, they have remained unbeaten in four such matches, recording two wins and two draws. Those victories equal the number they achieved in their previous 10 meetings with European teams.

Among the standout performers, Ueda has been particularly influential. His three direct goal contributions — two goals and one assist — match the highest total recorded by a Japanese player at a single World Cup, while his two goals equal the national tournament record. Sweden’s main attacking threat has been Alexander Isak, who has accumulated one goal and three assists, surpassing the previous best goal-involvement tally by a Swedish player at a World Cup since 1966.

Past H2H Results

Prediction and expected outcome

Japan and Sweden enter this decisive Group F clash knowing that a positive result could significantly improve their path into the knockout rounds. Japan arguably has the stronger recent form, arriving unbeaten after drawing with the Netherlands and comfortably defeating Tunisia, while their nine-match unbeaten run highlights their consistency. Sweden showed their attacking potential in a 5-1 win over Tunisia but were exposed defensively in a heavy defeat to the Dutch, suggesting they remain vulnerable against well-organised opponents.

The match is likely to be closely contested, with Japan’s disciplined structure and quick transitions posing problems for a Swedish side that has already conceded five goals in the tournament. Ayase Ueda’s form gives the Samurai Blue a cutting edge in attack, while Sweden will look to Alexander Isak to provide inspiration in the final third. Given Japan’s recent success against strong opposition and their impressive tournament performances so far, they may hold a slight advantage.

Prediction: Japan 2-1 Sweden

Expected outcome: A competitive encounter with chances at both ends, but Japan’s greater defensive stability and current momentum could prove decisive. Sweden should remain in contention throughout, though Japan appear better equipped to manage the key moments and secure a victory that could see them finish near the top of Group F.

The Tartan Army arrived in Miami carrying the same energy and optimism that had followed them throughout the tournament. Their supporters had won admirers across the United States, attracting attention for their enthusiasm and creating a carnival atmosphere wherever they travelled. Against Brazil, however, the mood changed quickly as events on the pitch silenced even the most vocal sections of the Scottish support.

Only seven minutes had elapsed when Vinícius Jr. struck the first blow. Scotland’s attempt to build from the back ended disastrously when Scott McKenna hesitated in possession and was robbed by Rayan. The loose ball fell kindly for the Brazilian forward, who calmly rounded Angus Gunn before finishing into an empty net.

The early setback immediately altered the complexion of the contest. Scotland had hoped to avoid another slow start after conceding quickly against Morocco earlier in the competition, but Brazil’s breakthrough left them chasing the game almost from the outset. The South Americans settled into their rhythm while Scotland struggled to regain their composure.

Even before the interval, Brazil looked capable of adding more goals. A second effort was ruled out, offering Scotland a temporary reprieve, but the pressure remained relentless as the favourites dictated proceedings and restricted their opponents to brief spells of possession.

Defensive errors prove costly again

For a short period following the cooling break, Scotland appeared more organised. They forced a handful of corners and managed to spend more time in advanced areas, although none of their attacks seriously troubled Brazil.

Any signs of recovery disappeared when Vinícius Jr. scored again. Scotland surrendered possession once more, with Andy Robertson losing the ball under pressure. Bruno Guimarães lifted a cross towards the far post, Gunn failed to reach it, and Nathan Patterson allowed Vinicius Jr. to drift away unnoticed before the winger headed into the net.

The second goal highlighted the same issues that had plagued Scotland throughout the evening. Brazil repeatedly punished uncertainty and hesitation, while Vinicius Jr. demonstrated exactly why he is regarded among the world’s elite attacking players.

By halftime, the statistics painted a bleak picture. Scotland had spent only 47 seconds in Brazil’s defensive third and had still not managed a meaningful effort on target. Their inability to threaten the opposition goalkeeper left them facing a daunting task in the second half.

Brazil finish the job as Scotland search for answers

After the restart, Scotland finally tested Alisson through Scott McTominay, but the Brazilian goalkeeper dealt with the attempt comfortably. Moments later, Vinicius Jr. nearly completed his hat-trick when he broke through alone, only for Gunn to deny him.

The third goal soon followed regardless. Guimaraes brushed aside Kenny McLean before supplying Matheus Cunha, who added another finish to place the result beyond doubt. At 3-0, there was no realistic route back for Scotland.

Brazil’s dominance allowed them to welcome Neymar back to international action with 14 minutes remaining. It was his first appearance in the famous yellow shirt for two and a half years, and the crowd greeted his introduction with enormous enthusiasm. With the top spot in the group already secured, Brazil was able to enjoy the closing stages without pressure.

Scotland continued to battle despite the scoreline. McTominay generated several opportunities, but Alisson prevented every attempt from finding the net. The Scots pushed for a consolation goal that never arrived, leaving them with nothing to show for their late effort.

Qualification uncertainty now surrounds Scotland

The defeat carried significance beyond the result itself. Before the final round of group matches, Scotland occupied a relatively strong position among the tournament’s third-placed teams. Results elsewhere gradually weakened that standing, and Brazil’s victory further damaged their prospects.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s win over Qatar had already pushed Scotland down the rankings. The heavy defeat in Miami reduced their margin for error even further and left them dependent on outcomes involving several other nations in the days ahead.

Scotland will now return to Charlotte, unsure whether their World Cup journey will continue. Tournament projections currently pair them with Mexico in the last 32, although that scenario remains subject to change depending on remaining group matches.

The final whistle brought visible exhaustion and disappointment. Several Scottish players collapsed onto the turf after enduring difficult conditions and a demanding evening against superior opposition. Their campaign now rests on events beyond their control. After collecting just one goal — a deflected strike against Haiti — and suffering two defeats, qualification would represent a remarkable twist. For the moment, Brazil celebrates first place while Scotland waits anxiously for answers.

Canada secured a place in the World Cup knockout phase for the first time in the nation’s history, yet the achievement was accompanied by disappointment after a defeat to Switzerland in their final Group B encounter. The 2-1 result at BC Place left Jesse Marsch’s team in second position, preventing them from finishing at the top of the group.

The outcome carried significant consequences. Had Canada earned at least a draw and claimed first place, they would have remained in Vancouver for their round-of-32 match and could also have stayed there for a potential last-16 contest. Instead, their path now leads south of the border.

Marsch focused on the next challenge

Because of the loss, Canada will travel to Los Angeles, where they are scheduled to face South Africa on Sunday. Despite the frustration of leaving home soil behind, head coach Jesse Marsch stressed that his squad still has an important opportunity ahead of them.

Marsch acknowledged that the team fell short of one of its objectives but emphasized that reaching the knockout rounds remains a major accomplishment. He insisted his players would be fully prepared for the next stage and determined to continue inspiring supporters, even from outside Canada.

Players reflect on missed opportunity

Canada began their campaign with a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto before producing a dominant 6-0 victory over Qatar in Vancouver. Their group-stage journey concluded in the same city with their first defeat of the tournament.

Forward Jonathan David admitted the players were disappointed to lose the chance to continue playing in front of home supporters. He praised the strong backing Canada received throughout the competition and described the mood within the squad as conflicted, with satisfaction at progressing mixed with frustration over surrendering the advantage of playing at home.

Questions raised over tournament scheduling

Although Canada will no longer play in the country during the knockout stage, three elimination-round fixtures remain scheduled there, including round-of-32 matches in Vancouver and Toronto and a last-16 encounter in Vancouver.

Meanwhile, the other co-host nations have retained home-country advantages. The United States, winners of Group D, are set to play all remaining matches on home soil, while Mexico’s first-place finish in Group A ensures a round-of-32 game in Mexico City and a possible last-16 appearance at the same venue.

Broadcaster criticises format

OneSoccer commentator Kristian Jack argued that the tournament schedule could have been arranged differently to avoid Canada’s relocation. According to Jack, both the runners-up from Canada’s group and Mexico’s group are required to move to the United States for their next matches.

He suggested that, with knockout fixtures already scheduled in Canada, organisers could have structured the bracket so that Canada remained in the country, even if that meant moving from Vancouver to Toronto. Jack noted that he had previously raised concerns about this scenario with both FIFA and Canada Soccer and believes the current arrangement unnecessarily removes the benefits of home support despite Canada’s successful qualification for the last 32.