Co-hosts Mexico have become the first team to secure a spot in the World Cup knockout phase after a 1-0 victory over South Korea. The win guarantees Mexico will advance as Group A winners with one group match remaining.

• Luis Romo scored the decisive goal shortly after halftime.
• Goalkeeper Raul Rangel made crucial saves in the closing minutes to preserve the win.
• The victory ensures Mexico will play their next match in Mexico City.

England kicked off their World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal were held to a surprising 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

• Harry Kane scored twice for England, equalling Gary Lineker's World Cup goal record.
• Cristiano Ronaldo made his historic sixth World Cup appearance for Portugal.
• DR Congo earned their first-ever World Cup point in a hard-fought match.

South Africa secured a crucial 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, keeping their hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages alive for the first time.

• Teboho Mokoena scored a late penalty for South Africa after Michal Sadilek had given the Czechs an early lead.
• Both teams now have one point in Group A, two points behind co-hosts Mexico and South Korea.
• South Africa coach Hugo Broos expressed belief in his team's chances if they can replicate their performance against the Czech Republic.

The United States and Australia aim to secure spots in the World Cup knockout rounds on Friday, while Brazil seeks its first win against Haiti.

• USA and Australia can advance with a victory in their Group D match after strong opening performances.
• Brazil, coming off a 1-1 draw with Morocco, needs improvement against winless Haiti.
• Iran's football federation plans to complain to FIFA about alleged travel restrictions imposed by organizers, impacting their ability to reach Los Angeles for their Sunday match against Belgium.