Valencia, Spain — The second day of the World Cup delivered exactly what the opening promised — goals, dominance, and the sense that the biggest teams have arrived. England’s five-star display against Japan headlined a day where France, Belgium, and Scotland all made winning starts to their campaigns.
England Begin Their Title Defence in Ruthless Style
At Villarreal Community Stadium, England produced a clinical and composed performance, dismantling Japan 5–0 in a manner that underlined why they are chasing an unprecedented eighth world title.
Real Madrid’s flying full-back Eliot Nicholas-French was the standout performer, registering two assists and an astonishing 13 key passes as England’s right flank became a conveyor belt of chances. The 22-year-old was named Player of the Match with a 9.4 rating, controlling every phase of play.
The champions struck early — McKauley Civzelis heading home inside six minutes — before a double from Paul Malcolm put England out of sight by halftime. Joseph Haigh, ever the talisman, added a brace of his own to cap a sparkling team performance. Johnny Jenkins marshaled the attack fluidly from midfield, while goalkeeper Joby Holwell enjoyed a largely quiet evening behind a rock-solid defence.
It was a performance of total control — 66% possession, nearly 30 shots, and an xG more than thirty times higher than Japan’s. As statements of intent go, this was emphatic.
France Overcome Resilient Congo
In Zaragoza, France began their campaign with a composed 2–0 victory over DR Congo, courtesy of second-half goals from Sébastien Martinet and Elie Bensafír. Though the Congolese side defended bravely for much of the match, France’s patience and midfield dominance eventually told.
It wasn’t spectacular, but it was professional — a performance typical of a team aiming to finally banish years of near-misses on football’s grandest stage.
Belgium Breeze Past Cameroon
Meanwhile, Belgium made light work of Cameroon in Seville, recording a commanding 4–0 victory. Frederic Ekwalla and Samuel Mbablu put the Red Devils two up within ten minutes, and a double from Hugo De Groote completed the rout.
Belgium’s pace and precision in transition looked devastating, marking them as one of the early dark horses to watch.
Scotland Dig Deep to Defeat Morocco
In Malaga, Scotland began their tournament with a spirited 2–1 win over Morocco. Callum McAdams’ first-half strike was cancelled out by Abdel Boutaleb, but Scott Crichton — Scotland’s leader and midfield anchor — rose to the occasion once again, driving home a 64th-minute winner to seal the points.
It was a gritty, emotional display that showcased everything we’ve come to expect from the Scots — determination, unity, and fight.
Elsewhere
Chile also impressed, seeing off Saudi Arabia 2–0 through goals from Poblete and Abbruzzese. Calm, compact, and efficient, the South Americans look well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The Verdict
Two days in, and the rhythm of the World Cup has taken hold. England’s authority, France’s calm, Belgium’s dynamism, and Scotland’s heart each set different tones, but all share one message: this tournament already belongs to the bold.