World Cup 2018 – LIVE: Latest news from Portugal and Spain VAR controversy, plus Nigeria vs Argentina and Lionel Messi updates, predictions, schedule and more
All the latest World Cup news from day 13 in Russia
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The 2018 World Cup is in full flow in Russia.
What a controversial day Monday proved to be! Both Spain and Portugal made it to the last-16 as expected, but the way they did it was not in the script at all. At one stage Portugal were at risk of being knocked out of the World Cup if Iran had found another goal – following a controversial penalty in their favour – while Cristiano Ronaldo was lucky not to see red for what appeared to be a swinging elbow. Then Spain upped the VAR controversy against Morocco when Iago Aspas’ equaliser was initially ruled out before being overturned.
With all that in mind, today’s action could be even more frantic. Argentina face crunch time as they must beat Nigeria – and handsomely – to avoid going home early from the World Cup. They also need Croatia to do them a favour and beat Iceland, or else Lionel Messi’s last chance to win the World Cup will be over. Those are the late games, with France set to take on Denmark in the earlier kick-offs and Australia needing a big victory over Peru to stand any chance of progressing.
We will have all the latest news, views, pictures and video direct from Russia throughout the day as we pick up the pace at the biggest football tournament in the world.
Please allow a moment for the live blog to load...
It's been a couple of days now since England's scintillating performance, particularly in the first half, where they put five past Panama to make them the joint highest scorers at this year's World Cup.
Obviously in England it was well celebrated, with typical British humour especially after the drama of the 'leaked' line-up.
But, what about the rest of the world?
How did they react to the Messiah, the footballing holy of holies that is Harry Kane?
Ed Malyon had a closer look:
In true Griezmann-style, Marouane Fellaini has declared that his club future will be announced on July 1st.
He's out of contract at Manchester United this summer but Jose Mourinho has made it clear he'd like the Belgian midfielder to remain at the club.
Meanwhile, staying with Belgium (and I guess, Manchester United), Romelu Lukaku HAS MISSED training with the Red Devils today.
Whether he starts against England this Thursday remains to be seen.
We'll keep you posted on any updates.
Only two and a half hours until Denmark take on France to try and secure their passage to the next round.
And this day should hold good memories for some Danish supporters as it was 16 years to the day when they stunned the European Championships beating Germany to win the title.
Will they create another piece of history today?
Certainly nothing 'boring' here from the assist king.
Do you agree with Mr.Milner regarding the VAR?
It sure does seem strange to trial it at the biggest footballing tournament in the world, but, has it not got more correct than it has incorrect?
Tell us in the comments what you think.
It's not just the 'beautiful game,' it's cracked up to be, is it?
Don't worry though guys, Gareth has it covered.
It's coming home.
So, in just over an hours time, France are widely expected to beat Denmark and leave qualification to the next round in the hands of Australia who could do with defeating Peru handsomely.
But, in predicting such outcomes, we forget that this is football and strange things happen.
Did you guys see the action last night? Exactly.
Here's Jonathan Liew discussing the modesty of Denmark's shining light, Christian Eriksen, and how he could alter this afternoon's affair.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments