LIVEWORLD CUP 2022 LIVE: Cristiano Ronaldo starts for Portugal as they get their World Cup campaign underway, favourites Brazil play Serbia - while Harry Kane returns to England training

Follow Sportsmail's live blog for all the latest World Cup news and updates with Portugal and Brazil getting their campaigns underway TODAY.

  • Jacob Ranson

    Host commentator

17:01
That's all from us!

Thanks for joining us on the World Cup live blog today.

Make sure to come back tomorrow to keep up to date with the latest goings-on in Qatar and all the build-up to England's huge clash with the USA in Group B.

In the meantime, you can continue to follow our live coverage from the Portugal vs Ghana game below.

16:55
A look ahead to tomorrow’s action.

It’s another jam-packed day of action in Qatar on Friday with four more group games as teams play their second match at the World Cup.

Full schedule:

Wales vs Iran (10am)

Qatar vs Senegal (1pm)

Ecuador vs Netherlands (4pm)

England vs USA (7pm)

England manager Gareth Southgate during a press conference at the Main Media Centre in Doha, Qatar. Picture date: Thursday November 24, 2022. PA Photo. See PA story WORLDCUP England. Photo credit should read: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire.RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to restrictions. Editorial use only, no commercial use without prior consent from rights holder.
16:52
A reminder of today’s results

The Portugal vs Ghana game is the third fixture of the day in Qatar with two games having been played earlier.

Switzerland beat Cameroon 1-0 thanks to Cameroonian-born forward Breel Embolo, before South Korea drew 0-0 with Uruguay in a pretty drab game.

Switzerland 1-0 Cameroon

Uruguay 0-0 South Korea

 

16:47
Half-time: Portugal 0-0 Ghana

It’s half time in the Portugal vs Ghana group H clash with the score level at 0-0.

It's been a dominant half for Fernando Santos's side with Cristiano Ronaldo missing two early chances, but Ghana have been able to keep them at bay. 

The European outfit will need to be better in the final third in the second half.

Don’t forget you can follow our live coverage below.

16:44
Wide open World Cup

After this evening, every team will have played once at the 2022 World Cup.

And former England and Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher claims 'erratic'  results at the World Cup should give England even greater confidence that they can go on and win it.

16:39
But Keane doubts Kane’s fitness

Despite the earlier good news England wise regarding Harry Kane, speaking on ITV ahead of Portugal’s clash with Ghana, Roy Keane was unconvinced that the England skipper is fully fit. 

The hard-hitting pundit said this despite England boss Gareth Southgate declaring Kane ready to go for Friday's game against the United States.

16:33
'He's a high maintenance pest!'

A reminder of today's 'World Cup Confidential'Sportsmail and MailPlus's daily videocast . It appears on MailOnline every morning of the tournament and can be found on our YouTube channel. 

Today, Sportsmail experts discussed several of the big issues out in Qatar, including the role of Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal side.

The Daily Mail's Chief Sports Writer Martin Samuel labelled the former Manchester United forward a 'high maintenance pest' for his nation and insisted he was no longer worth the fuss.

16:25
Kane boost for england

A reminder of the earlier news from the England camp when the nation breathed a sigh of relief as Harry Kane returned to full training on Thursday - but James Maddison was still absent ahead of England’s second World Cup game against the United States.

Kane suffered an ankle knock during the 6-2 thrashing of Iran that opened England's tournament but the scans came back all-clear and he will be fit to play.

16:19
Qatar have a point to prove

Qatar boss Felix Sanchez is busy preparing for his side’s second group game against Senegal but admits his side 'are prepared for an early exit' from the World Cup after just one game following a dismal loss to Ecuador.

He also said the host nation 'have a point to prove' in their clash against the AFCON champions.

 

16:07
A heartwarming moment from Louis Van Gaal

Netherlands boss Louis Van Gaal shared a heartfelt moment with a young journalist following a press conference at the World Cup.

Speaking ahead of his side's second Group A fixture against Senegal on Friday, the former Manchester United boss was told by a young reporter that he doesn't have a question but just wanted to say that he is a big fan.

Van Gaal thanked the media member, telling him. 'I don't hear this a lot, this is very sweet. I want to give you a hug. Later on you and I will be hugging.'

16:00
We're underway for Portugal v Ghana

We're underway for the third match of day five at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

All eyes will be focused on Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo, given his bombshell interview and Manchester United exit.

You can follow our live match blog for all of the latest updates below:

15:55
Joe Cole believes the USA don't pose much of a threat to England

ITV pundit Joe Cole believes USA don't pose much of a threat to England ahead of their group-stage clash tomorrow evening at 7pm.

'I don't think they're as good of a team as they think they are... I hope I don't regret that.'

15:50
Timothy Weah describes 'amazing feeling' of scoring World Cup goal in front of his father George

'It's an amazing feeling,' the 22-year-old Weah told ABC's Good Morning America on Thursday, following USA's 1-1 draw with Wales.

'I mean, you know, when he was playing he didn't get the opportunity to take his country to a World Cup and now his son is here doing the best I can, so I know he's proud.

'My dad and mom are going crazy in the stadium. I saw them when I scored. I know they're proud of me and, you know, I just want to make them proud out here and continue to do well.'

Click below to read more

15:45
Iran arrests footballer who was dropped from national squad ahead of World Cup for criticising the government

Iranian security forces today arrested a former national football player for criticising the government over the crackdown on protests that have engulfed the Islamic Republic for months.

Voria Ghafouri, who was dropped from Iran's national squad ahead of the Qatar World Cup over his criticism of the regime, was arrested after a training session with his local club Foolad Khuzestan in Iran.

The 35-year-old was arrested over accusations that he had 'tarnished the reputation of the national team and spread propaganda against the state,' Fars News agency reported.

Click below to read more

15:40
FIFA list Cristiano Ronaldo as a FREE AGENT on the official teamsheet for Portugal's opening World Cup clash with Ghana

FIFA have listed Cristiano Ronaldo as a free agent for Portugal's World Cup Group H encounter with Ghana - just 48 hours after his sensational sacking by Manchester United.

Fernando Santos's team begin their World Cup campaign against the African nation at 4pm (GMT) at the 974 stadium in Doha.

And in the official teamsheet published ahead of kick off, Ronaldo's name was listed with his club labelled as 'N/A (Free Agent)'.

Click below to read more

15:35
Will Jude Bellingham start for England against USA?

ITV pundits Roy Keane and Graeme Souness shared different views on the situation in the Three Lions midfield.

'He didn't give Gareth an option'- Roy Keane

'The temptation would be to go for a more defence set up' - Graeme Souness

15:30
Warm-up is underway! All eyes on Ronaldo

Warm-up is underway at Stadium 974 ahead of the clash between Portugal and Ghana!

All eyes are on Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo who starts and wears the captain's armband for their 2022 World Cup opener.

The 37-year-old free agent could become the first player to score in five different World Cups.

15:25
The pre-match atmosphere is building

The pre-match atmosphere inside Stadium 974 ahead of the clash between Portugal and Ghana in the third match of the day!

The fans look excited?! Can we expect another entertaining match!

15:21
Roy Keane is confident Cristiano Ronaldo is going to silence the haters
15:17
MATCH REPORT: Uruguay 0-0 South Korea

Uruguay and South Korea had to settle for a 0-0 draw in their World Cup opener on day five in Qatar!

Read the full match report below:

15:12
Jurgen Klinsmann says Germany need a 'MIRACLE' to get out of their World Cup group

'Obviously it is hugely, hugely disappointing for us Germans. The overall performance was just not good enough, it was just not what we expected after the disaster in Russia when they went home in the group stage.

'Our hope was that they showed the right spirit, that they showed the right tempo, the right energy and even when they were leading 1-0, I never had the feeling they would put it up into a higher gear.

'England did [against Iran] - they scored one goal, they wanted the second, third, fourth one…. They were happy with the first one and they thought 'we're going to cruise' but Japan punished them.'

Click below to read more

15:07
South Korea fans pay tribute to Son Heung-Min's fractured eye socket by donning Zorro-like protective masks

South Korea fans across the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan have donned replica protective facemasks as a tribute to Son Heung-Min's orbital injury.

As Paulo Bento's side took to the pitch for their World Cup opener against Uruguay, the South Korea captain appeared for the first time since since being forced off whilst playing for Tottenham in the Champions League.

The 30-year-old could be seen wearing a protective face mask, after recently undergoing surgery following a eye-socket fracture. 

Click below to read more

15:02
Valverde! So close to a winner for Uruguay
14:58
Focus switches to Portugal v Ghana

Focus now switches to Portugal v Ghana, as the third match of the day is just an hour away now!

The big news is that Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Portugal, despite all the controversy surrounding the forward off the pitch right now.

Here is also some team news:

Portugal line-up (4-3-3): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Pereira, Guerreiro; Neves, Otavio, Fernandes; Felix, Silva, Ronaldo (C).

Ghana line-up (3-5-2): Ati-Zigi; Seidu, Djiku, Salisu; Amartey, Abdul Samed, Partey, Kudus, Rahman; Williams, A. Ayew (C).

You can follow our live match blog for all the latest news on that match below: 

14:56
FULL-TIME: Uruguay 0-0 South Korea

That's a wrap on the second match of the day, Uruguay and South Korea play out a goalless draw.

Despite no goals, it was full of chances, and could have gone either way in the end.

Next up, Portugal v Ghana!

14:51
Holland manager Louis van Gaal HUGS a young journalist at his press conference

Louis van Gaal shared a heartfelt moment with a young journalist following a press conference at the World Cup.

Speaking ahead of his side's second Group A fixture against Senegal on Friday, the former Manchester United boss was told by a young reporter that he doesn't have a question but just wanted to say that he is a big fan.

Van Gaal thanked the media member, telling him. 'I don't hear this a lot, this is very sweet. I want to give you a hug. Later on you and I will be hugging.'

Click below to read more

14:46
Cristiano Ronaldo STARTS in Portugal's opening World Cup match against Ghana

Cristiano Ronaldo starts for Portugal in their opening World Cup match - two days after his Manchester United contract was terminated. 

Ronaldo has yet to speak publicly since becoming a free agent for the first time in his career, having chosen to skip captain media duties on Wednesday.

But head coach Fernando Santos has not been deterred by the off-field drama surrounding the 37-year-old and has picked him from the start against Ghana this afternoon.

Click below to read more

14:44
Fans arriving ahead of Portugal v Ghana

Fans are arriving at Stadium 974 ahead of the third match of the day between Portugal and Ghana.

Just under 10 minutes left in the clash between Uruguay and South Korea before focus switches to Portugal v Ghana.

The atmosphere is building with over an hour until kick-off!

14:40
Qatar boss Felix Sanchez admits his side 'are prepared for an early exit' from the World Cup

Qatar want to prove they can compete at the highest level when they face Senegal, coach Felix Sanchez said on the eve of a clash that may thwart their World Cup hopes.

The Asian champions hope to avoid becoming the fourth hosts eliminated in the first round at the finals after Switzerland, Chile and South Africa in 1954, 1962 and 2010 respectively.

Qatar lost 2-0 to Ecuador in the opening game of the tournament after a disappointing performance, causing many fans to leave the stadium 20 minutes before the end.

Click below to read more

14:35
How USMNT captain Tyler Adams was shaped by his time in high school

Adams' high school experience required sacrifice - and not just from him.

From the age of 16, Adams was balancing a pro soccer career with his schoolwork, as he was first signed to Red Bulls II at that age.

Straddling those two worlds was a task that took a collective effort.

Click below to read more

14:28
Just over 20 minutes to go!

It's a very cagey affair! Just 20 minutes left, can either side find a way to break the deadlock and net a potential winner.

It remains goalless!

14:26
Cameroon boss Rigobert Song hails 'little brother' Breel Embolo after the Switzerland forward - who was born in the African nation - refused to celebrate his winner against them

'We know each other, he is my little brother,' Song told reporters. 'We often speak to each other on the phone and I wanted to congratulate him.

'It is fair play to do so. Just because we are on different teams, it does not mean we are not still brothers.'

Click below to read more

14:21
BRAD FRIEDEL: USA's tie with Wales felt like a loss and I don't know why Gregg Berhalter left Gio Reyna out

The Wales score will have felt like a loss to the United States team as they walked off the pitch in Qatar.

I was really impressed with the first half. We controlled the game. Josh Sargent went close, there was nearly an own goal and I was really happy for Timothy Weah to score. He's a great kid, always smiling, always happy. He took his goal well.

The tide shifted in the second and the more clear cut chances came to Wales. But the US should have held on. It was a silly challenge from Walker Zimmerman on Gareth Bale, who had his back to goal and didn't have the ball under control.

Click below to read more

14:04
Back underway!

We're back underway for the second-half of the clash between Uruguay and South Korea. It remains goalless after the opening 45 minutes.

You can follow our live match blog for all of the latest updates below:

14:00
The American team ready to take on England at the World Cup (but FOUR of them are from England!)

They proudly turned out under the Stars and Stripes for the USA's first World Cup game against Wales.

But three players in the US squad who'll go on to face the Three Lions tomorrow were actually born in England - with a fourth playing for England's youth side before making the switch to America.

They are some of 137 footballers not representing their country of birth at the World Cup in Qatar.

Click below to read more

13:55
Denis Odoi has one of the toughest jobs in marking Cristiano Ronaldo at for Ghana tonight

Fulham old boy Denis Odoi is living proof you're never too old to fulfil your dreams. 

At 34, he's about to make his World Cup debut on Thursday against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, and in the new year will experience Champions League knockout football for the first time.

'I'm living in the moment but at the same time it's a bit crazy what's happening to me,' acknowledges the popular Ghana defender who spent six years at Craven Cottage before joining Club Brugge in January.

Click below to read more

13:48
HALF-TIME: Uruguay 0-0 South Korea

The half-time whistle sounds. It remains goalless between Uruguay and South Korea at the Education City Stadium.

It's still all to play for in the second-half. Don't go anywhere!

South Korea's goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, right, dives to save a goal attempt by Uruguay's Darwin Nunez
Matias Vecino of Uruguay and Wooyoung Jung of Korea Republic
Jung Woo-Young of Korea Republic and Facundo Pellistri of Uruguay
Luis Suarez of Uruguay and Minjae Kim of Korea Republic
13:43
PLAYER RATINGS: Breel Embolo comes back to haunt his country of birth

In a tight affair, there were still some standout performers at the Al Janoub Stadium, and Sportsmail's Sam Brookes has rated the players from both sides. 

Click below to see if you agree with his ratings:

13:40
Aussie fan is 'BARRED from World Cup centre after security found his rainbow pride flag'

An Aussie fan in Qatar for the World Cup has claimed he was turned away from the ticketing centre after security found a rainbow pride flag in his bag.

The Socceroos supporter, who travelled to Doha to watch the side in action, asked to remain anonymous because he fears for his safety in Qatar, where homosexuality can be punishable by jail or even death by stoning.

Carrying a rainbow pride flag in his bag, the fan tried to enter the building at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, where the ticketing for the tournament can be purchased.

Click below to read more

13:35
Senegal boss Aliou Cisse insists Edouard Mendy is STILL their No 1 goalkeeper

Edouard Mendy carries the 'blind faith' of his Senegal boss Aliou Cisse and his teammates as the African champions attempt to pile more misery on hosts Qatar.

Chelsea goalkeeper Mendy was at fault for the first goal as his team lost 2-0 to Holland on Monday.

Now they go head to head with the home nation and Asian champions in Doha's Al Thumama Stadium on Friday, with the losers painfully aware they are unlikely to progress from Group A.

Click below to read more

13:30
England's training session

England were pictured in training earlier today as they prepare to face USA in their second group-stage match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Captain Harry Kane returned to training as the squad were put through their paces as they look to build on their 6-2 victory over Iran on Monday afternoon.

Phil Foden and Kalvin Phillips of England interact during a training session
Declan Rice of England reacts during a training session
Marcus Rashford and Trent Alexander-Arnold of England sign autographs prior to a training session at Al Wakrah Stadium
Harry Kane returned to training with the rest of the England squad
13:24
Germany legend Lothar Matthaus claims Hansi Flick gave Japan 'an invitation to attack' by taking off Havertz, Muller and Musiala early in shock defeat

'I thought of the 1999 final, when (Ottmar) Hitzfeld substituted me shortly before the end, and Manchester United won 2-1. 

'You take a personality off the field that your opponent respects, and you're letting them know you feel safe, too sure! An invitation to attack. It was like that now.

'By substituting Müller and Gündogan, two experienced players at the same time, the order lost. The rhythm was lost.' 

Click below to read more

13:19
World Cup's sexiest fan brands Qatar tournament 'the worst organisation in history'

Croatian football superfan Ivana Knoll, who's been branded the 'World Cup's Hottest fan', has lashed out at this year's Qatar tournament, calling it 'the worst organisation in history' after she and her entourage encountered a range of problems in Doha.

The former Miss Croatia, who became an internet sensation at the 2018 World Cup, took to social media to share her frustrations about the event.

'This is a disaster!' she wrote on her Instagram story. 'I feel sorry for all the people who can't go to the World Cup because of the worst organisation in history.'

Click below to read more

13:14
Early action shots from Uruguay v South Korea
13:10
The Qatar World Cup is 'WIDE OPEN' and that suits England, insists Jamie Carragher

'Erratic' results at the World Cup should give England even greater confidence that they can go on and win it, according to Jamie Carragher.

Along with wins for France and Spain, who hit Costa Rica for seven on Wednesday night, England are one of a handful of teams to lay down an early statement of intent after defeating Iran 6-2 in their opening game.  

Since then there have been shock defeats for Argentina and Germany, who lost to Saudi Arabia and Japan respectively, while other popular picks such as Denmark and Croatia stuttered to 0-0 draws in their first games. 

Click below to read more

13:06
Neymar's biggest cheerleader! Brazil star's VERY glamorous sister, Rafaella Santos is supporting him in Doha

When Brazil take on Serbia in the Lusail Stadium in Qatar tonight, the South American team's star player, Neymar, will have a particularly supportive ensemble cheering him on in the stands. 

The 30-year-old striker, widely regarded as the finest Brazilian footballer of his generation, will be hoping to lead his team to World Cup glory before Christmas arrives...with his exuberant younger sister Rafaella Santos, 26, leading the family chants. 

Indeed, the impassioned football fan, who's likely to be joined by Neymar Sr, the footballer's 57-year-old father, once celebrated a goal her brother scored against Costa Rica so hard, that she dislocated her shoulder. 

Click below to read more

13:00
We're underway for Uruguay v South Korea

The second match of the day between Uruguay and South Korea is underway!

You can follow our live blog of the match for all the latest updates below: 

12:55
Canada boss John Herdman boldly claims his side will 'F' Croatia after their spirited defeat to Belgium

'I just showed them the stats, I just showed them they belong here,' Herdman said. 'I just told them they belong here and we're going to go and 'F' Croatia.

'It's as simple as it gets, that is our next mission now.

'I lost my first game at the London 2012 Olympics and we went on to win our first medal in 86 years.

'It is about how we respond now'.

Click below to read more

12:50
Sportsmail writers clash over whether the WAGS and loved ones of the England team should be in Qatar

Another snippet from our World Confidential podcast, including Martin Samuel, Ian Ladyman and Rob Draper.

Ladyman had asked: 'Why are they here. It begs the question do they need to be here?'

Draper said: 'I'm pretty much onside with this (having the WAGS and loved ones in Qatar). 

'Culture has changed and fathers are much more part of families now and that's where we are in society. 

'In 1966 that wouldn't have been case, roles were much more defined. A lot of us know when you've got young children its much harder to be away from home.'

Click below to read more or listen to the World Cup Confidential podcast

12:41
Netherlands and USA press conferences are underway!

Netherlands and USA press conferences are both underway ahead of their matches tomorrow!

Netherlands will look to build on their opening match victory when they face Ecuador.

USA will face a tricky test against England in their second match of the group-stages.

Louis van Gaal, Head Coach of Netherlands, and Denzel Dumfries of Netherlands speak to the media
USA's coach Gregg Berhalter addresses a press conference
12:39
Mexican fans are caught trying to smuggle booze into Qatar World Cup stadium in a flask disguised as binoculars

Mexican fans tried to sneak booze into the Qatar World Cup stadium in a flask disguised as binoculars- but the hapless supporters were caught and it was confiscated.

Footage shows a fan dressed in a green football shirt standing next to three officials.

The supporter is at the security scanners which they have to go through to be let into the stadium. 

Click below to read more

12:34
Warm-up is underway ahead of Uruguay v South Korea
12:30
Welsh WAGs head to the beach while England partners enjoy the view from their £1billion cruise liner ahead of second World Cup clash

The WAGs of England and Wales' World Cup squads enjoyed another day of luxury in Qatar ahead of the second round of clashes on Friday.

The partners of British footballers touched down in Doha to support the Three Lions ahead of their 6-2 win against Iran on Monday - and the Welsh squad's 1-1 draw with the US. 

Tomorrow, Southgate's team will take on the US - while Wales goes up against Iran.

But in the meantime, the WAGs continued to shared glamorous photographs of themselves relaxing on the beach and on board a luxury 'floating palace' in Qatar.

Click below to read more

12:25
Ex England striker John Fashanu says footballers should NOT wear the OneLove armband at the World Cup

Former England striker John Fashanu has said footballers should not have even threatened to wear the OneLove armband because making a protest at the World Cup is 'culturally inappropriate'. 

The ex-footballer said people should adhere to the rules of host country Qatar even if they are 'bad' and said football and politics should be kept separate. 

Joining Susanna Reid and Ben Shephard on Good Morning Britain, Fashanu argued: 'OneLove armband – what has that got to do with football? How did that merge into the world of football?

Click below to read more

12:20
MATCH REPORT: Switzerland 1-0 Cameroon

Switzerland sealed a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the first match of the day at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Read the full match report below:

12:15
Pre-match atmosphere is building

The atmosphere is building ahead of the clash between Uruguay and South Korea at the Education City Stadium!

Fans are arriving at the stadium covered in face paint, some with cardboard cut outs, and others with flags.

12:10
The Germans find something else to be upset about! WAG shows off her goosebumps as she joins fans complaining that Qatar stadiums are too COLD

A German WAG has shown off her goosebumps as she joined football fans in complaining that Qatar's World Cup stadiums are too cold.

Christina Ginter, who is married to German football player Matthias Ginter, stood shivering in the stands as she watched her husband's team lose 2-1 to Japan in a shock defeat yesterday.

Christina shared her dismay on Instagram, posting a picture of goosebumps on her arm while complaining about Qatar going to the extreme when cooling down its eight stadiums.

Click below to read more

12:05
Up next, Uruguay v South Korea

The second match of the day is coming up, under an hour until kick-off. Uruguay v South Korea.

Team news:

Uruguay: Rochet; Varela, Godin, Gimenez, Olivera; Bentancur, Vecino, Valverde; De Arrascaeta, L Suarez, Nunez.
 
South Korea: Kim Seung-gyu; Kim Moon-hwan, Kim Young-gwon, Kim Min-jae, Kim Jin-su; Jung Woo-Young, Hwang In-beom, Lee Jae-sung; Hwang Hee-chan, Son Heung-min, Hwang Ui-jo.
 
You can also follow our live match blog of the match below: 
12:00
Belgium's Eden Hazard takes aim at Germany for covering their mouths in protest of FIFA's OneLove armband ban

'Yes, but afterwards they lost the match,' Hazard said, when asked for his thoughts on the gesture made by the German side on Wednesday. 

'They would have done better not to do it and to win. We are here to play football, I am not here to send a political message. 

'People are better placed for that. We want to be focused on football.' 

Click below to read more

11:56
FULL-TIME: Switzerland 1-0 Cameroon

That's a wrap on the first match of the day, Switzerland seal a 1-0 victory over Cameroon with a 48th minute goal from Breel Embolo.

It's a good start in Group G for the Swiss, not such a strong start for Cameroon, who now have work to do.

Next up, Uruguay v South Korea!

11:51
Spanish manager Luis Enrique shows off physique as fans are left swooning over his muscular body

While many football fans may be fawning over talented and handsome players battling it out in the World Cup, there is a different hunk in Qatar who has caught the eye of some delighted viewers.

Spanish head coach Luis Enrique, from Gijon, Spain, posed for the cameras just hours before his side thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 in one of the most dominant World Cup displays of modern times.

The 52-year-old whipped off his shirt and rolled up his shorts in the warm Qatar heat, and could be seen giving a thumbs up to the camera as he walked through the training ground.

Click below to read more

11:46
Switzerland striker Breel Embolo REFUSES to celebrate after scoring against the country of his birth, Cameroon

Switzerland's Breel Embolo refused to celebrate after giving them the lead against Cameroon at the World Cup - as it was the country he was born in.

The Monaco forward broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half of Switzerland's opening fixture on Thursday, but he chose against celebrating it and instead raised both hands while even appearing to apologise.

Embolo, 25, was born in the Cameroonian capital of Yaoundé, before receiving Swiss citizenship in 2014 after spending his youth career in the country.

Click below to read more

11:43
Less than 10 minutes left

There is only 10 minutes left, plus stoppage time for Cameroon to try find an equaliser as they trail 1-0 to Switzerland.

Breel Embolo found the back of the net just three minutes into the second-half and have been dominant in the second-half.

Can Cameroon find a way back into the match?

11:40
Gabriel Martinelli has the 'arrogance' to succeed for Brazil, claims team-mate Thiago Silva

'He’s playing without fear and, if he gets the chance to play, I don't think it will faze him and he’ll just do what we know he can do.

'I think all attacking players at the top level need that little bit of arrogance - that they know they can do something special - and he has that.'

Brazil kick-off their World Cup campaign against Serbia at 7pm.

Click below to read more

11:35
Onana denies Switzerland a second

Inter Milan and Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana denied Ruben Vargas from doubling Switzerland's lead.

11:30
Roy Keane becomes stand-out star of the World Cup

He was renowned as the tough tackling enforcer of Manchester United's star-studded midfield during their glory days.

But now Roy Keane has been winning plaudits from across the globe with his no-nonsense analysis as part of ITV's broadcast team during the 2022 World Cup.

The Irish pundit, 51, has earned the admiration of fans with his 'straight-talking' approach - including calling out the hypocrisy of England and Wales captains for backing down over fears of sanctions for wearing the rainbow OneLove armband.

Click below to read more

11:23
Re-live Breel Embolo's goal

You can re-live Breel Embolo's goal that gave Switzerland a 1-0 lead over Cameroon in the first match of day five of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

11:19
Harry Kane returns to full training after ankle injury scare as England prepare for their second World Cup game against the United States... but James Maddison remains out of action

The nation breathed a sigh of relief as Harry Kane returned to full training on Thursday - but James Maddison was still absent ahead of England's second World Cup game against the United States.

Kane suffered an ankle knock during the 6-2 thrashing of Iran that opened England's tournament but the scans came back all-clear and he will be fit to play.

The Three Lions captain trained individually on Wednesday but was passed fit to rejoin the group at Al Wakrah on Thursday. 

Click below to read more

11:14
Jose Mourinho insists Japan's historic 2-1 victory against Germany was 'NOT a crazy surprise'

'Of course it was a fantastic achievement, but to be honest it wasn't a crazy surprise.

'Japan is a good team and has good players, is getting a good accumulation of experience at these events. The majority of the players play in Europe where they develop a lot faster and understand better what is the high level.

'And I think the mentality of the players and the team can make also a difference. I think at this moment in European football there is a big focus on the individual, big focus on egos.'

Click below to read more

11:11
Switzerland 1-0 Cameroon

We have a goal in the game between Switzerland and Cameroon.

It was Breel Embolo who tucked home a pass from Shaqiri from inside the six yard box. Dominant start to the second-half from the Swiss.

11:06
Back underway for the second-half

Will either side manage to break the deadlock in the second-half? It is currently goalless.

11:04
The best chance of the first-half!
10:59
Re-live all of the action from the first-half!

Re-live all of the action from the first-half between Switzerland and Cameroon through some action shots.

It remains goalless after 45 minutes.

Switzerland's Nico Elvedi eyes the ball during clash with Cameroon
Switzerland's Manuel Akanji, top, out jumps Cameroon defenders to head the ball
Switzerland's Granit Xhaka, right, heads the ball past Cameroon's Bryan Mbeumo
10:55
Ghana star Mohammed Kudus makes bizarre claim about Neymar before dubbing the story 'fake news'

Ghana's Mohammed Kudus described a story about a feud between himself and Brazil icon Neymar as fake news, despite making a bold claim about the PSG star, before taking a dig at the his age. 

The Ajax midfielder had a coming together with Neymar during a pre-tournament friendly loss for Ghana ahead of the Qatar World Cup, before The Guardian reported he claimed Neymar was not a better player than him. 

However, in a recent social media post, the 23-year-old looks to have reignited the rivalry be describing Neymar and Brazil team-mate Thiago Silva as 'elderly' on social media. 

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10:49
HALF-TIME: Switzerland 0-0 Cameroon

The first match of the days is goalless at half-time, but Switzerland v Cameroon has been far from dull.

Both sides having good chances, but failing to score. The biggest chance perhaps falling to Swiss and Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji on the stroke of half-time.

It's still all to play for in the second-half. Don't go anywhere!

Remember you can follow our live blog for all of the action:

10:47
Callum Wilson would RELISH being England's leading man

When, at the start of this season, Callum Wilson marked Sunday November 13 as 'Pack for Qatar' in his diary, he would have probably jotted 'Start against USA' on Friday November 25.

Not because he forecast an injury to Harry Kane, more so because he backs himself to beat, what to others at least, would appear insurmountable odds.

While recovering from a hamstring injury in September and asked by his Newcastle team-mates where he was spending the mid-season break, the striker would reply: 'Qatar.'

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10:40
'There were huge celebrations in the media centre when Germany lost': Sportsmail's team in Doha tell WORLD CUP CONFIDENTIAL

'There were huge celebrations in the main media centre in Doha and excitement when Germany lost. That was the same four years ago in Russia.

'What is it about the Germans that provokes people in that way. Why does everyone want Germany to lose? What's the problem?'

Click below to read more or listen to the World Cup Confidential podcast

10:30
‘French fan’ who helped spark brawl with Socceroos supporters reveals he’s NOT from France and impersonated a Les Bleus diehard to get social media clout

The 'French' fan who was involved in a wild brawl at a World Cup fan event in Melbourne has outed himself as an Australian with Ukrainian heritage that just wanted to create some trouble for social media 'cred'. 

A World Cup screening party at Federation Square in Melbourne for Australia's match against France descended into violence as Socceroos fans turned on a small group of men who appeared to be Les Bleus supporters.

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10:25
England stars are struggling to stay in touch with family members in Qatar due to patchy WiFi at their World Cup base

England's players are struggling to stay in touch with loved ones at the World Cup due to unstable internet connections.

Until this point, players and families have only managed to see each other once in person, following Monday's game against Iran when Gareth Southgate gave his squad permission to enter the stands to see loved ones after the final whistle.

But their attempts to speak to each other are being hampered by patchy WiFi between the team hotel and the converted cruise ship where most of the families are staying, with many complaining they are cut off mid-conversation.

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10:19
Early action from Switzerland v Cameroon

Check out the early action from the first match of the day between Switzerland and Cameroon.

Both sides have had chances in the opening stages of the Group G match. Breel Embolo found the back of the net after being played in by Xherdan Shaqiri, but he was flagged down for offside.

It remains goalless so far!

Switzerland's Ricardo Rodriguez (left) and Cameroon's Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa
Switzerland's Ricardo Rodriguez (left) and Cameroon's Bryan Mbeumo battle for the ball
Cameroon's Karl Toko Ekambi reacts after a missed chance
10:15
Kyle Walker knows he can overcome anything football throws at him

Kyle has been discussing the events that shaped his life when, suddenly, he pauses. There is a need to answer the question he has been asked with care and consideration and he wants to be precise.

Once he begins to speak, the requirement for patience becomes apparent. Manchester City's right back is revisiting his childhood in Sheffield and explaining how three incidents he saw enable him to apply perspective to moments and situations that some could deem challenging.

The talk begins when he is reminded that, one day, he arrived home from school to find a woman walking around the vicinity of his home wearing a motorcycle helmet and carrying an axe. The direction the conversation takes quickly makes it clear this was not the worst thing he saw.

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10:10
Gary Neville has been mocked online for his analysis before Spain vs Costa Rica

Fans have taken to social media to make jokes at Gary Neville's expense after the pundit branded Spain toothless ahead of their World Cup opener.

Speaking on ITV before the game, the former Manchester United star questioned the attacking potency of Luis Enrique's side: 'It's okay but there is no goals in it.'

Despite Neville's comments, the 2010 winners of the competition ran rampant against Costa Rica in their group E debut, scoring seven times against their hapless opponents.

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10:05
Harry Kane set to return to full training today after ankle scan came back all-clear

England boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed captain Harry Kane will return to training on Thursday ahead of the World Cup clash with the United States after his ankle scan came back all clear.

Kane suffered a knock to his right ankle after a clumsy challenge by Morteza Pouraliganji in England's 6-2 win against Iran on Monday - the national team's biggest ever win at the start of a major tournament.

The Spurs striker, who has a history of ankle problems, did play on for 25 minutes but was seen limping after the game and went for a precautionary scan.

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10:00
The first match of the day is underway!

The first match of the day is underway between Switzerland and Cameroon. Three more matches to come later today.

You can follow our live match updates of Switzerland v Cameroon below:

09:55
Ronaldo could win another trophy before Man United - Hal Robson-Kanu

Former Wales striker Hal Robson-Kanu insists there is more to come from free agent and Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

'I wouldn't be surprised if he wins another trophy before Manchester United.' 

09:50
EXCLUSIVE: Labourer owed £1,500 in UNPAID wages for his work on Qatar's World Cup stadiums urges Harry Kane to speak up for migrant workers ahead of England's clash against USA

England striker Harry Kane is being urged to speak up for migrant workers by a labourer who is owed £1,500 in unpaid wages for his work at the World Cup stadium where England will face the USA on Friday.

The Nepalese worker toiled for less that £10-a-day to help build the brand-new 60,000 seat Al Bayt facility, which is 20 miles from the Qatar capital, Doha, and he claims he never received wages and a severance payment due to him at the end of his contract.

In desperation, Narayan Prasad Sigdel has recorded a video message with a human rights group pleading with Kane and other international footballers to use the World Cup to assist in securing withheld wages and fair pay for migrants.

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09:46
Just 15 minutes until the action starts today

We're now just 15 minutes away from the action beginning today, with Switzerland v Cameroon up first.

The pre-match atmosphere is building, as fans pack into the Al Janoub Stadium with kick-off just moments away.

Who will come out on top of this Group G encounter?! We're expecting another entertaining day of football with three more matches to come after this one. 

09:36
Qatar World Cup officials offer REFUNDS and new accommodation to fans staying in 'rip-off' metal containers

Qatar World Cup officials are offering full refunds and new accommodation to furious football fans who have been staying in 'rip-off' £185-a-night metal containers.

Football fans arrived at Fan Villages in Doha ahead of the major football tournament - only to find migrant workers still working on completing the corrugated box rooms.

Rubbish has also continued to pile up around the containers, while fans have complained of being cramped in their tiny rooms and having to wait for excessively long periods to check in. 

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09:31
Gareth Southgate provides an update on Harry Kane

England manager Gareth Southgate has provided an update on captain and star striker Harry Kane after he went for a precautionary scan yesterday.

The Tottenham striker should be in contention for tomorrow's evening match against USA.

09:25
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti says he's 'cheering for CANADA' in Qatar as the Italian considers the North American country his 'second home'

'I will be cheering for Canada at the World Cup, as it has been absent for many years and is my second home. 

'The president of the Canadian Federation is from Abruzzo, so everyone is cheering for Canada.'

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09:20
MARTIN SAMUEL insists Cristiano Ronaldo is no longer worth the fuss after losing the 'ability to deliver' on the biggest stage in today's WORLD CUP CONFIDENTIAL

Daily Mail chief sports writer Martin Samuel was speaking as part of Sportsmail and MailPlus's daily videocast 'World Cup Confidential'. It appears on MailOnline every morning of the tournament and can be found on our YouTube channel. 

'He always was worth the fuss but I'm not sure he's worth the fuss now.

'He's become a high maintenance pest as supposed to a high maintenance player who's absolutely worth it. 

'Today, I think it is the biggest story at the World Cup by a mile. The guy that has just been sacked by United - sacked!

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09:15
Ghana boss Otto Addo dismisses claims Cristiano Ronaldo's Man United exit could distract his side ahead of World Cup clash with Portugal

Ghana boss Otto Addo dismissed talk that the continuing fallout from Cristiano Ronaldo's sensational Manchester United departure earlier this week could distract his side ahead of their World Cup opener with Portugal. 

The German-born Ghanaian coach admitted 'I don't care' when asked about the effect Ronaldo's situation might have, and reiterated that it had no bearing on his side's will to beat the former European champions. 

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09:08
Switzerland v Cameroon team news, follow our live blog

Switzerland XI: Sommer; Widmer, Akanji, Elvedi, Rodriguez; Freuler, Xhaka; Shaqiri, Sow, Vargas; Embolo.

Cameroon XI: Onana; Fai Collins, Castelletto, N’Koulou, Tolo; Anguissa, Hongla, Gouet; Mbeumo, Choupo-Moting, Toko-Ekambi.

Follow our live match blog for the latest updates below:

09:05
Five reasons why Switzerland are dark horses at the Qatar World Cup

A solid defence, a gritty battling midfield, top class goalkeepers and some attacking threats, the Swiss squad poses enough threat to cause teams issues.

Sportsmail takes a look at the five reasons that Switzerland could be dark horses at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

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08:59
Just over an hour until kick-off! Switzerland v Cameroon

Just over an hour until the first match of the day kicks-off between Switzerland and Cameroon!

Fans are already arriving at the Al Janoub Stadium. We will have team news shortly, plus we're running a live blog on the match on our website.

Check that blog out for live match updates! 

08:55
ITV colleagues tell of their 'shock and sadness' as pundit Nadia Nadim is forced off air after her mother was killed in a digger accident

World Cup pundit Nadia Nadim has revealed her mother's sudden death caused her to abandon ITV's coverage of a live game on Tuesday night, as her 'deeply shocked and saddened' colleagues rallied round to offer their support.

The women's football star and refugee, 34, had been part of the broadcaster's show throughout Denmark's goalless draw with Tunisia, but was no longer present after the final whistle.

The analyst confirmed today she was forced to suddenly leave as her mother, Hadima Nadim, 57, had been fatally hit by a 'truck' while on her way back from the gym.

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08:50
If Harry Kane misses out, who should England turn to against USA?

Either Gareth Southgate trusts in the assessment from his medical team and deploys Harry Kane as his focal point in attack once more, or he errs on the side of caution and rests his star striker for more crucial evenings.

Sportsmail's CHRIS SUTTON has taken a look at the four Plan B options Southgate has in attack against USA and assessed which of them would be most effective on Friday night.

Click below to read more

08:45
All eyes are on Cristiano Ronaldo!

All eyes will be on free agent Cristiano Ronaldo this afternoon when Portugal get their World Cup campaign underway against Ghana.

The 37-year-old will be keen to prove he's got it as he searches for a new club after the major tournament in Qatar.

The forward can also become the first player to score in five different World Cups. He is currently level with the likes of Lionel Messi, Pele, Miroslav Klose and Uwe Seeler, who have all scored in four.

08:40
Canada fans FUME at Janny Sikazwe after his failure to give them TWO 'clear' penalties in World Cup clash with Belgium

Canada fans have been left furious by officiating in the opening 45 minutes of their first World Cup game for 36 years.

Supporters have blasted referee Janny Sikazwe following his failure to give them two 'clear' penalties after Alphonso Davies missed a spot-kick in the ninth minute of the game vs. Belgium in Group F. Their opponents then took the lead before halftime.

The furor comes just 10 months on from Sikazwe blowing for full-time in Tunisia's AFCON clash with Mali after just 85 minutes.

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08:35
Japan's jubilant players leave their dressing room spotless - and even make cute Origami swans as a thank you to their hosts

Japan's players created a huge impression on the pitch at the World Cup when they stunned Germany in their opening game.

And they left positive vibes off it as well by leaving their dressing room absolutely spotless at the Khalifa International Stadium.

Pictures shared on social media showed the floors swept, litter sorted into neat piles and even windows left open for ventilation in the Japan locker room after their 2-1 win.

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08:30
Kai Havertz and Germany's defence are savaged by Bild's ratings after shock World Cup loss to Japan

Germany's flops have been savaged by the media after their shock World Cup loss to Japan - with Chelsea's Kai Havertz and coach Hansi Flick heavily criticised.

Newspaper Bild gave Havertz a 5 - the second lowest possible score - in their ratings for Wednesday's 2-1 defeat in Qatar, a result that leaves Germany staring at the prospect of another early exit.

Flick also received a rating of 5 for his game plan, while this embarrassing score was also awarded to Serge Gnabry and defensive trio Niklas Sule, David Raum and Nico Schlotterbeck.

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08:25
Harry Kane is CLEARED to resume World Cup after ankle scan confirms no serious damage

England boss Gareth Southgate has breathed a huge sigh of relief after Harry Kane was cleared to resume his World Cup following a scan to his right ankle.

Tests on Wednesday showed that Kane - whose recovery has been assisted here in Qatar by long-term personal physio Dr. Alejandro Elorriaga Claraco - has escaped serious damage to the joint and been cleared to train.

Southgate must now decide whether to include Kane in the starting XI for Friday's game versus USA at the Al Bayt Stadium but he is in line to be available.

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08:21
Good morning! Welcome back to our World Cup coverage

Welcome to our World Cup blog, where we have FOUR matches taking place in Qatar today!

Switzerland v Cameroon

Uruguay v Korea Republic

Portugal v Ghana

Brazil v Serbia

We'll be bringing you all the latest news and information throughout the day.

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