The midday edition of the 2026 World Cup — June 22, 13:00 Kyiv time. The night and morning brought several high-profile results from the second round of the group stage, reshaping the standings in several groups. At the same time, the day's marquee match kicked off at 13:00 Kyiv time — Argentina vs Austria in Arlington, Texas.
Yamal Returns: Spain 4:0 Saudi Arabia
The biggest story of the night was Spain's commanding 4:0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the stadium in Atlanta. Lamine Yamal, who returned to the starting lineup after tearing his left hamstring — an injury that ended his club season in April — scored as early as the 10th minute. Mikel Oyarzabal added a brace in the first half. For Spain, this was a decisive response after the shocking 0:0 draw with Cape Verde in the opening round.
The win puts Spain at the top of Group H and puts to rest questions about a team crisis following their dismal start. Yamal, who recently turned 18, once again confirmed his status as one of the tournament's key players.
Egypt Lead Group G: New Zealand 1:3
Egypt claimed their first victory of the tournament, beating New Zealand 3:1, and moved to the top of Group G. This was made possible against the backdrop of yet another Belgium disappointment: the Red Devils drew 1:1 with Iran, remaining winless after two matches. Belgium were also reduced to ten men following a second-half red card, allowing Egypt to take full advantage of the situation.
Mohamed Salah, who provided an assist in the opening match against Belgium, was once again at the center of attention — Egypt's attack is showing a level of consistency that few expected from them before the tournament.
Argentina vs Austria: Knockout-Stage Decider Kicked Off at 13:00
At the very moment this edition was published, the Group J match between reigning world champions Argentina and Austria got underway at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Both teams have three points after the first round: Argentina demolished Algeria 3:0 (Lionel Messi hat-trick), while Austria beat Jordan 3:1. A win in this match guarantees the victor a place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare. The match referee is Amin Mohamed Omar (Egypt).
Among the interesting pre-match details — a statement from Austrian player Konrad Laimer on the official FIFA website, in which he called Messi the best player in the world on the eve of their face-off with the Argentine.
Second Round Recap: Who Has Already Secured Qualification
The second round of the group stage is rapidly shaping the tournament picture. The USA have already secured a place in the knockout rounds after beating Australia 2:0. Canada thrashed Qatar 6:0 and also lead their group. Norway (4:1 over Iraq in the first round) and France (3:1 over Senegal) will play their respective opponents tonight in a battle for top spot in Group I.
Tonight's fixtures: France vs Iraq (20:00 Kyiv time) and Norway vs Senegal (23:00 Kyiv time); a detailed preview will follow in the preview section.
Photo: Yahoo Sports Staff · Editorial (source)
