Soccer
Today at the World Cup: Haaland and Mbappe look to steal the show, and Mexico to continue fairy tale run
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It feels like the World Cup has properly begun with drama-filled penalty shoot-outs and a major shock.
European giants Germany were beaten by Paraguay on penalties, continuing their recent misery at the World Cup, while Morocco beat the Netherlands in a penalty shoot-out which will be remembered for the terrible spot kicks.
Three more knockout matches are on the agenda today, with favourites France in action, along with dark horse Norway and tournament co-hosts Mexico.
Ahead of kick-off, DAZN News previews today's action at the World Cup.
Ivory Coast vs. Norway
- Date: Tuesday, June 30
- Kick-off: 6pm BST / 1pm ET / 10am PT
- Venue: Dallas Stadium
Ivory Coast are set to play in the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in their history, but opposite the African side will be a Norway side spearheaded by superstar striker Erling Haaland.
The Ivory Coast finished second behind Germany in Group E, albeit separated by just goal difference, and their defence has been solid, keeping clean sheets in two of their three games, whilst only losing to Germany after an added-time strike by Deniz Undav.
Norway, on the other hand have been entertainers. Haaland has been scoring for fun, but they do concede, and if Norway are to go deep in this tournament, the ageing defence needs to be more switched on against an Ivory Coast attack which can punish when it sniffs an opportunity.
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France vs. Sweden
- Date: Tuesday, June 30
- Kick-off: 10pm BST / 5pm ET / 2pm PT
- Venue: New York/New Jersey Stadium
It's an all-European clash in the Big Apple where two-time winners France face Sweden.
France have been flawless so far, winning all three of their group games, and captain Kylian Mbappe is firmly in the race for the World Cup Golden Boot. Their ability to change the course of a match in an instant has made them one of the frontrunners to be lifting the trophy on July 19.
Many will not be giving Graham Potter's Sweden a chance of beating France, and after an underwhelming group stage, it's no surprise. A thrashing at the hands of the Dutch, and a fortunate draw with Japan does not generate much hope for what would be a huge upset at this year's World Cup.
Mexico vs. Ecuador
- Date: Tuesday, June 30
- Kick-off: 2am BST (July 1) / 9pm ET / 6pm PT
- Venue: Mexico City Stadium
Mexico will look to continue their fairy tale tournament as co-hosts when they welcome Ecuador to the Mexico City Stadium.
It could not be going any better for Mexico, three wins from three in the group stage, electric atmospheres from their home fans, they have real momentum ahead of a possible Last 16 showdown against England or DR Congo in their home country.
Ecuador are stepping into the lion's den for this World Cup knockout match in what is just the second time they have advanced past the group stage, and it will take some performance to topple a Mexico team which is unbeaten in their last nine World Cup matches at this stadium.
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