FIFA World Cup Day 2018: What to look for on matchday 11
Updated | By Sky Tshabalala
Things are heating up on day 11 in the FIFA World Cup. Get the latest insights from Sky Tshabalala here.
Russia vs Uruguay – Kick-Off at 4:00pm
Both of these sides are already through to the knockout stages. The winner of this game will finish top of Group A although Russia needs just a point to finish top because of their superior goal difference.
The South Americans will be without defender Jose Gimenez who has a thigh muscle injury.
The host will once again be without midfielder Alan Dzagoev who got injured in the opener against Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia vs Egypt – Kick-Off at 4:00pm
Pride is at stake in this match.
Egypt's 45-year-old goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary (45) will become the oldest player in World Cup history if he faces Saudi Arabia, but boss Hector Cuper will not confirm if he will play.
The captain was an unused substitute in the opening two games - both defeats - but Egypt now have nothing to play for after being eliminated.
The Saudi’s are yet to score at this year’s tournament while the Pharaohs will be looking to win a World Cup match for the first time in their history.
Iran vs Portugal – Kick Off at 8:00pm
The permutations in this one is simple – its winner takes all.
Iran currently in third spot in Group B need a win to qualify for the last 16 while Portugal knows a draw will be good enough to see them advance to the knockout stages.
As the nation ranked fourth in the world, and reigning European champions, Portugal should start as clear favourites.
Portugal midfielder Joao Moutinho is a doubt after missing several days of training through illness.
Raphael Guerreiro has recovered from a minor leg injury but struggled against Morocco and could be replaced.
Captain Cristiano Ronaldo has scored his country's last five goals at the World Cup. The last player to do so for one nation was Russia's Oleg Salenko in 1994, who scored six in a row.
Spain vs Morocco - Kick-Off at 8:00pm
Spain could be without backup goalkeeper Pepe Reina, who is a doubt for this game.
Defender Nacho Monreal has recovered from a minor problem and should be available.
Diego Costa has scored nine goals in his last nine appearances for Spain and three in two matches at this World Cup.
Morocco may rotate their squad with their World Cup elimination already confirmed.
A win for La Roja could see them finish top of the group and a draw will be good enough to see them advance to the last 16.
Also read: Germany rescue World Cup hopes with dramatic Kroos winner
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