The expanded 48-team World Cup is now nearly a week old, and the group stage has already delivered its share of surprises. While many of the tournament's heavyweights were expected to cruise through their opening fixtures, Tuesday and Wednesday's matches reminded fans that reputations count for little on the pitch.
Sweden 5-1 Tunisia: Scandinavian Efficiency Overpowers North African Resistance
Sweden's Group F encounter with Tunisia was anticipated as a tight affair, but the Blågult turned it into a statement victory. Midfielder Yasin Ayari opened the scoring in the 10th minute, and Liverpool striker Alexander Isak doubled the lead in the 30th minute. Tunisia pulled one back just before halftime through Omar Rekik, but Sweden's unusual double-striker system—featuring Isak and Arsenal's Viktor Gyökeres—proved decisive. Gyökeres restored the two-goal cushion in the 59th minute, and Mattias Svanberg added a fourth in the 84th. Ayari completed his brace deep into stoppage time, sealing a 5-1 rout.
The result gives Sweden a commanding start in a group that also includes other contenders. For Tunisia, the heavy defeat could prove costly if goal difference becomes a tiebreaker later in the group stage.
Spain 0-0 Cape Verde: Possession Without Penetration
Spain, the reigning European champions and one of the pre-tournament favorites, endured a frustrating opening match against Cape Verde. Without the injured Lamine Yamal—who traveled with the squad but is expected to return for the second or third group game—La Roja dominated possession with nearly 70% and registered over 20 shots, but could not find the back of the net.
The goalless draw means Spain dropped two crucial points in Group H, a result that will raise questions about their attacking efficiency. Cape Verde, meanwhile, celebrated a hard-earned point that could prove vital in their quest to advance beyond the group stage for the first time.
Spain's inability to convert dominance into goals echoes concerns from recent tournaments, where they have often controlled games without securing wins. The return of Yamal will be eagerly awaited, but the team must find a way to break down disciplined defenses.
Egypt 1-1 Belgium: Pharaohs Hold Their Own
In a match that defied pre-game expectations, Egypt matched Belgium stride for stride. Emam Ashour gave the Pharaohs a shock lead in the 20th minute with a powerful strike past Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Belgium pushed for an equalizer but struggled to break down a resolute Egyptian defense until late in the game, when they finally leveled the score.
The draw leaves Group G wide open, with both teams aware that every point counts in a competitive group.
As the group stage continues, European teams will look to build momentum. For Spain, the pressure is already mounting to deliver a convincing performance in their next match.
