The first two matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup provided two shutouts. The first, an absolute domination as Russia pulled no punches against Saudi Arabia. In the second, Uruguay barely got by an Egypt side opening up without Mohamed Salah.
Russia
Host nation Russia had an impressive opening performance to lift the curtain at the 2018 World Cup. Unexpectedly, the Russians annihilated Saudi Arabia 5-0. You can read the full recap HERE.
Egypt
Day 2 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked off with Egypt taking on what should have been a much more dominant Uruguay squad. Without Mohamed Salah still recovering from injury, one could only assume Egypt were bound for an excruciatingly long 90 minutes.
Going into this match, Uruguay had lost their last six World Cup openers, while Egypt had never won a game at the tournament.
The first half proved to be very even, as Egypt put two shots on goal (four shots in total), to Uruguay’s one (five shots in total). One could even go as far as to say both teams were even, despite Uruguay’s 56% possession advantage.
It was the second half that provided the most action.
Uruguay came out aggressive early, spelling danger for Egypt right after the whistle blew to start the second half. Edinson Cavani found Luis Suarez making a run ahead but Egypt’s Mohamed El-Shenawy was able to get an angle to block the shot.
Both teams kept exchanging possessions to no avail.
Ahmed Fathi gave Egypt their first legitimate shot on goal in the 73rd minute, sending a strike from the right side of the box on goal. Fernando Muslera did not have a difficult time blocking it but it was Egypt’s best opportunity taken in the match.
Immediately afterwards, Suarez put himself in scoring position, taking on a defender and the keeper. The attempt ended up empty, as he willingly fell in the box and the referee did not take the bait.
Luis Suarez headed a pass towards Cavani, who sent a hot right footed shot from outside of the box that forced El-Shenawy to make a save.
Cavani would get yet another opportunity to score as he was awarded a free kick just five yards outside of the box. He sent a missile towards goal and hit the post, making the hearts of Uruguayans skip a beat and Egyptians let out a sigh of relief.
Uruguay would eventually break through. Mohamed Shayf fouled Jose Gimenez to the right of the box. Carlos Sanchez took the free kick, which found the head of Gimenez.
Despite a few opportunities by Egypt, the score would not change and Uruguay would go on to win their first World Cup opener since 1970.
Egypt will take on Russia on Tuesday, while Uruguay will take on Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.