Tuesday started with drama and ended with two nations looking primed for deep runs in this World Cup as Norway, France and Mexico all booked places in the next round.
The day’s matches started off with a thrilling contest between Norway and the Ivory Coast, which went all the way down to the final minutes before one of the tournament’s foremost stars scored a crucial goal to send the Norwegians through. Then, it was France’s time to shine as they rolled through an overmatched Sweden squad, looking every bit like the tournament favorites they are.
Finally, in the night match, Mexico used a lightning-quick first-half attack against Ecuador to secure two goals, allowing them to win their first World Cup knockout match in 40 years.