On paper, the group stage of the 2018 FIFA World Cupmay seem like an exercise in futility. Every edition has a ‘Group of Death’ where heavyweights face off but this edition has seen a more balanced draw.
Nevertheless, with 48 group stage fixtures to play, there are a number of games that will not only decide who tops the group (and gets a relatively easier draw in the knockout stages) but also have the capacity to entertain fans and neutrals alike.
Egypt and Uruguay face off in the second match of the World Cup and it promises to get the tournament off to a flying start. The two sides are in the same group along with hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia but are favourites to qualify for the Round of 16.
However, the result from this game could set the tone and early pressure to qualify for the knockout stages. And the hopes of the African country now rest on one man to return to action as soon as possible.