World Cup Round-Up (Day 6) – Senegal Knock Out Qatar and USA Hold England

26/11/22 952

Day 6 of the 2022 World Cup saw host nation Qatar exit the tournament following defeat to Senegal. Elsewhere in Group A, the Netherlands were held to a 1-1 draw by Ecuador.

In Group B, Iran beat Wales 2-0 before England and the USA produced a goalless stalemate. All four teams in Group B can still qualify for the knockout phase, with first-place England and last-place Wales separated by just three points.

Let’s look back at all the key moments from Day 6.

Iran Strike Twice to Leave Wales on the Brink

Iran finally broke the deadlock against Wales on 98 minutes, with Rouzbeh Cheshmi finding the back of the net. Remarkably, the Iranians doubled their lead three minutes later to claim a memorable victory at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.

The game’s major turning point came on 86 minutes, when Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was sent off for a reckless lunge. Despite racking up 62% possession and ten shots, the Welsh Dragons came away with nothing.

Senegal Beat Qatar 3-1 to Send Hosts Packing

Goals either side of half-time from Boulaye Dia and Famara Diedhiou put Senegal in control against Qatar. Mohammed Muntari pulled one back for the hosts, but Bamba Dieng sealed the deal late on.

Qatar have now been knocked out of the tournament before their final game against the Netherlands. Sadly, the host nation failed to compete on the biggest stage in world football.

Valencia Scores Against as Ecuador Hold Netherlands

Following a brace against Qatar in the tournament opener, Ecuador’s Enner Valencia scored against the Netherlands on Friday. Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch the lead after just six minutes, but Ecuador faught back to claim a precious point.

In fact, the Ecuadorians deserved more than a point in the end. Having recorded 15 shots – four of which were on target – they might be unhappy to have come away with a draw.

England and USA Play Out Dull Goalless Draw

England were the bookmakers’ heavy favourites to beat the USA, but Gregg Berhalter’s boys had other ideas. The Americans put up a solid fight against a team Three Lions outfit, chalking up ten shots on the process.

Christian Pulisic came closest to scoring, with his left-footed effort hitting the woodwork. England failed to create any meaningful chances, although they remain atop Group B and should qualify for the last 16.