Christian Pulisic was the hero once again for USA. (AP pic)
1. Americans survive late siege
The eagerly anticipated grudge match was gripping, but did not boil over and the Americans just about held on for a deserved win.
All the fireworks had come in the build-up with Iran’s pathetic attempt to get USA banned for tinkering with their flag(!) unworthy of their heroic players.
And coach Carlos Queiroz again showed his inability to match his fiery rhetoric with his timid approach on the pitch. His negativity allowed the USMNT to dominate possession and take
charge of the game.
Christian Pulisic was the hero once again, forcing home the winner and then coming off worse as he clattered into Iran’s keeper.
Iran left their offensive too late and now go home – let’s hope they get the welcome they deserve.
Two goals including a stunning free-kick have put Marcus Rashford him in contention for the Golden Boot award. (AP pic)
2. Rashford redemption in Lions’ stroll
A year ago, Marcus Rashford went from hero to zero when he missed a penalty in the final of the Euros. He was subjected to racist abuse and had his mural in Manchester defaced.
He admitted it was a low point and even thought of leaving Manchester United. But he fought back and regained his England place. Two goals including a stunning free-kick have put him in contention for the Golden Boot award.
In truth, Wales made it easy – the Dragons looked out of their depth and bowed out with a whimper after their 64-year wait.
3. Wales of despair as Bale disappears
He was going to breathe fire, but a twinge in his hamstring was enough for the leader of the Dragons to call it quits. Gareth Bale managed just seven touches against England before he was hooked at half-time.
There was no heroic send-off, no farewell milking of adulation from his faithful fans. Instead, only one of the most ignominious endings to a great career of all time.
Where were you Gareth? Your country certainly needed you. Outclassed, out of their depth with their talisman not even up for the fight.
It’s doubtful if he’ll dare show his face in a Welsh jersey again.
4. Out of Africa, destiny called
Senegal approached this tournament with hopes they could become the first African nation to win it. Then superstar Sadio Mane got crocked and they lost the first game.
A win over Qatar kept them in contention but they still had to beat Ecuador, who only needed a draw, to progress. Then destiny took over.
On the second anniversary of the death of Papa Bouba Diop at 42, skipper Kalidou Koulibaly inked the late legend’s number 19 on his captain’s armband. That was the shirt Diop wore when he scored the famous goal that knocked out France in 2002. Koulibaly duly bagged the winner.
It also made up for four years ago when they were dispatched for the most excruciating reason: tied with Japan on points, goals and goal difference, they were ousted because they had picked up two more yellow cards.
5. Qatar, hosts with the least
A 2-0 loss to Netherlands was enough for Qatar to become the first host nation to bow out without a point. Sorry, but it’s a shocking return on a US$300 billion investment. Already out before kick-off, they at least avoided a hammering from Louis Van Gaal’s emerging side.
For the Dutch, Cody Gakpo continued his mercurial rise with his third goal in three games.
And Netherlands are on course to give their ailing manager a fond farewell. They’re favourites to beat USA when they kick off the knockout phase at 11pm on Saturday.
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