This Sunday, two World Cup round of 16 matches are scheduled, with the same objective for all four teams: to win and reach the quarterfinals. The first match pits Brazil against Norway at 10:00 PM. The game will be broadcast on beIN Sports 1 and M6. Later that night, Mexico takes on England at 2:00 AM. This match will also be broadcast on beIN Sports 1.
Brazil-Norway: The Seleção are not the easy favorites
Brazil has the jersey, the history, the weight of the name. But they haven't yet developed the style of play that inspires confidence. Before this round of 16 match against Norway, the Seleção hadn't dispelled the doubts that had plagued them since the start of the tournament. They're still there, but they haven't given the impression of a team that's in complete control from start to finish. The case Neymar This sums up this strange Brazil. Selected for this World Cup, the number 10 isn't playing: just 14 minutes against Scotland, then the bench against Morocco and Japan. Carlo Ancelotti insists he can play and will use him if the team needs him… This is where Brazil raises questions. Neymar is there, but in the role of a ghost. Vinicius Jr. carries most of the attacking threat, Raphinha is injured, and Paqueta is out.
Norway: Haaland carries the country
Norway isn't here to watch Brazil play. They've won three of their four matches in the tournament and are relying on Erling Haaland, who has already scored five goals. Their coach, Stale Solbakken, has stressed the need to keep a cool head and not get carried away by the occasion. For Norway, an upset is more than ever possible against a Brazilian side that no longer strikes fear into anyone…
Mexico-England: A tense round of 16
Mexico-England: The Azteca, the altitude, and an eighth match that smells like a trap
Mexico faces England in the early hours of Monday morning at 02:00 AM. The match will be played at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals and face the winner of the Brazil-Norway match. Mexico arrives in the tournament with momentum. Finishing first in their group and defeating Ecuador in the round of 32, El Tri has had a solid tournament so far. A quarterfinal victory at the Azteca against a major European nation would give the Mexican tournament a taste of success.
A England qualified, but not reassuring.
England advanced, but they didn't exactly dominate the previous round. Against DR Congo, the English fell behind before pulling away thanks to two late goals from Harry Kane. Final score: 2-1. Harry Kane remains the attacking linchpin. But around him, England needs to raise their game: start stronger, cope better during periods of pressure, and avoid chasing the game.
The Aztec Factor
More than ever, the venue can make a difference. England will be playing at more than 2 meters above sea levelIn a stadium packed with Mexican fans, Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that the altitude could be a factor, but refused to use it as an excuse. For Mexico, more accustomed to playing at altitude, it's a real advantage. Will they capitalize on it? We'll find out tonight…
