World Cup 2018: The Group B conundrum

Spain and Portugal were thought to be as easy winners from the group, but it will all come down to final match-day.

The clash between European heavyweights, Spain and Portugal, set the World Cup off to a bright start. It was almost an exhibition of the highest quality of technical abilities, and even when the game finished in a 3-3 draw, it was, by and large, the best game of the World Cup this year.

However, Iran’s win over Morocco, and marginal wins for Spain and Portugal in their second matches have changed things in the Group B. The European sides share points, with Spain leading the group due to one less yellow card offence.

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If it so happens that Spain and Portugal wins their final games with same scoreline, and Spain picks up another yellow card, FIFA would ‘draw lots’ to decide the winner of the group. In a reverse scenario of match results, lots will be drawn between the European sides to decide who will proceed to round-of-16.

The sides from Group B will play against the top-two placed teams of Group A, which is already at ease. Russia and Uruguay have already qualified for the next round, and they will face each other in the final match-day to determine the group winner.

Spain will meet Morocco, and Portugal plays Spain, as the kick-off for both the fixtures takes place at 11:30 PM IST on June 25.