The first round of the group stage of the 23rd World Cup, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, has ended.
Medianews.az reports that 75 goals were scored in 24 games. This means an average of 3.13 goals per game.
In the list of top scorers, Argentine Lionel Messi leads with 3 goals. He is followed by seven players, each with 2 goals. Five own goals have been recorded.
The average attendance at the stadiums is reported as 65,524 people.
Four teams considered contenders for the championship finished the first round with victories: Germany – Curaçao 7:1, France – Senegal 3:1, Argentina – Algeria 3:0, England – Croatia 4:2.
Another four favorites shared points: Brazil – Morocco 1:1, Netherlands – Japan 2:2, Spain – Cabo Verde 0:0, Portugal – DR Congo 1:1.
48 teams are divided into 12 groups. The top two teams in the groups and the 8 teams with the best results among the third-placed teams will earn tickets to the round of 16.
When points are equal, the result of the match between the teams is taken as the main criterion. The remaining criteria are: goal difference, number of goals scored, fewest official warnings (yellow and red cards), the team's position in FIFA's current ranking.
The group stage ends on June 28. The round of 16 is scheduled for June 28 to July 4, the round of 8 from July 4-7, the quarterfinals from July 9-12, the semifinals on July 14-15, and the third place match and final on July 19.