FIFA World Cup 2018: Day 2 match preview

FIFA World Cup 2018: Day 2 match preview

We are in for a busy day of action after the FIFA World Cup opening match on Thursday.

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AFP

Group A

Their second game takes place as Egypt and Uruguay collide with both nations the favourites to advance to the Round of 16.

The good news for the Pharaohs is that Mohammed Salah has been declared fit and is set to feature in the match.

Uruguay, meanwhile, are expected to name a youthful midfield featuring 20-year-old Rodrigo Bentancur and Nahitan Nandez, 22.

But they boast plenty of experience elsewhere, not least the potent frontline of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani. Kick-Off is at 2pm

Group B

Group B play kicks off with perhaps the game of the group stage with Portugal and Spain clashing in Sochi.

Portugal have reported no injury concerns, but question marks remain over their starting line-up. 

Jose Fonte and Bruno Alves are vying to partner Pepe at centre-back, while either Andre Silva or Goncalo Guedes will join Cristiano Ronaldo in attack. 

Daniel Carvajal returned to training for Spain on Tuesday following a hamstring injury but remains a doubt. 

Kick-Off is at 8:00pm. 

Also in Group B, Morocco and Iran meet in St Petersburg and kick-off is at 5:00pm.

Read: Flag-waving fans party as Russia wins World Cup opener in Moscow

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