Key events

1h ago Preamble
1h ago Iran coach Ghalenoei laments absence of backing from fellow managers

World Cup team of the tournament so far: John Brewin, Marcus Christenson and I have put together a list of standout players from the first 10 days, following one guideline of excluding big names.

Step aside for Messi, Mbappe and Haaland as the focus shifts to Laryea, Just and Quinones:

Group F: Premier League influence dominated the Netherlands versus Sweden encounter. Almost entirely, as Crysencio Summerville from Championship side West Ham stood out as the sole scorer not active in the top division. Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey and Liverpool striker Cody Gakpo each scored twice, with Newcastle winger Anthony Elanga replying for Sweden in a 5-1 loss.

"The result feels somewhat severe on our side, yet such outcomes occur in the sport given the level of opposition," remarked Sweden manager Graham Potter.

"We began poorly, leaving us trailing and impacting team spirit. Following the initial interval we performed strongly after making adjustments that improved our position."

Ronald Koeman's Netherlands side look set to lead the group, while Sweden may target a draw against Japan in their last fixture to advance as one of the better third-placed sides.

"This result was essential," Koeman noted. "A strong opening brings calm. Extra pressure existed to secure victory or risk everything resting on the final group game, which is undesirable."

Tony Mason rose early in the UK: "Following yesterday and this morning's developments matters grow slightly clearer. I foresee a major round of 32 clash between Brazil and Japan. Curaçao may have aided third-placed sides since both they and Ecuador now face difficulty exceeding two points. This Sunday I viewed an entire match plus highlights of another, completed a run and ate breakfast before 9am."

We appear idle by comparison.

Group F: Early risers in the UK caught Japan overpowering Tunisia in Monterrey. Crystal Palace supporters would recognize Daichi Kamada's strong display in attack, stepping in for injured Takefusa Kubo.

"Daichi has operated mainly as a defensive midfielder of late, yet given our squad needs we moved him forward today," explained Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu. "The plan aimed to utilize his abilities and let him direct both attack and defense from that spot."

Tunisia join Turkey in heading home. Herve Renard took over from dismissed Sabri Lamouchi yet made little impact. Their final match pits them against the Netherlands.

"The margin is large but matches the gap between the sides," Renard said. "Though eliminated we still play once more. We remain in the World Cup and must stay sharp for the game against the Netherlands."

Elsewhere in Group E Germany advanced from a World Cup group for the first time since claiming the title in 2014, recovering from a half-time deficit against Cote d'Ivoire.

"We displayed real resolve today," stated Deniz Undav, echoing Brendan Rodgers. The Stuttgart forward entered as substitute to score twice and seal victory late, reaching nine goals in 11 caps.

Undav's position under Julian Nagelsmann remains unusual. The coach has questioned his displays despite goals scored, while Undav prefers starting roles.

"I could start him," Nagelsmann remarked yesterday. "Every player prefers to begin, yet he appears content with his current role."

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"A statue in Curaçao may be due," remarked Eloy Room after denying Ecuador and securing his nation's first World Cup point. His shutout stood out following the 7-1 opening loss to Germany. The Miami FC keeper came within one of Tim Howard's mark of 16 saves in a World Cup game from 2014.

"Slightly frustrated not to claim the record from Tim Howard, though he may have watched nervously as I neared it," Room added.

This will remain an extraordinary recollection. One does not reflect during the moment yet it becomes memorable later. For a goalkeeper this approaches perfection. It is remarkable. Success came as a unit with defenders, midfielders and forwards contributing.

The point leaves Curaçao able to advance from Group E with victory over Cote d'Ivoire in their final match.

Results and reports: Saturday's World Cup action unfolded as follows.

Sweden followed their 5-1 win over Tunisia by suffering the same scoreline defeat to the Netherlands, with Sunderland's Brian Brobbey scoring twice in Houston. Nick Ames reported from the venue.

Deniz Undav continued his fine scoring form for Germany with a brace from the bench including a late winner versus strong Cote d'Ivoire in Toronto. Leander Schaerlackens covered the game.

Curaçao collected their opening World Cup point by drawing with Ecuador, thanks to outstanding goalkeeper Eloy Room who made 15 saves in Kansas City. Ed Aarons was present.

Herve Renard's debut as Tunisia boss proved as difficult as Sabri Lamouchi's last outing, with Japan scoring freely in Monterrey. Jonathan Wilson attended.

Iran's Ghalenoei laments absence of support from other managers

Ben Fisher

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei voiced regret over the lack of solidarity from the remaining 47 managers amid ongoing issues before their vital Group G fixture with Belgium.

Iran reached Los Angeles from their Tijuana base shortly after midday Saturday, under 24 hours ahead of the match. They had sought arrival two days prior yet faced refusal and raised concerns with Fifa president Gianni Infantino about being the "most oppressed" side. Belgium arrived Friday to prepare.

"No word came from other coaches and they focus on their own preparations so we did not anticipate reactions," Ghalenoei said. "Yet had another side faced similar treatment I would have spoken out."

"No responses appeared except Belgium coach Rudi Garcia noting we are here for football not politics, which I echo. Our issues concern Fifa treatment."

Ghalenoei described waiting Friday evening after Fifa hinted at possible earlier travel. The squad prepared to depart Tijuana but no approval arrived.

"They called asking if we were ready for a 6pm flight. I agreed yet we waited without movement," Ghalenoei explained. "By 7pm they confirmed it was impossible. This affects us mentally, particularly as coach. Fifa tries hard and I appreciate efforts though success has not followed."

Ghalenoei confirmed approval for a flight to Seattle two days before their final match against Egypt on Friday, yet questioned restrictions on earlier games. "Why prevent earlier arrival for the first two matches? They permitted our planning yet others decided for those games."

Preamble

Tunisia exit after heavy loss to Japan in Group F. Curaçao remain in contention following a determined 0-0 result with Ecuador in Group E. Germany and the Netherlands continue strongly. Time to discuss the World Cup.