LINE

Text:AAAPrint
Sports

What to look out for at the FIFA World Cup on Sunday

1
2018-06-24 10:35:58Xinhua Editor : Zhang Shiyu ECNS App Download

What to look out for on Sunday at the FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Harry Kane and England changes

After a brace in England's 2-1 victory over Tunisia in their opening game, England will again look to Kane to be their main attacking outlet against Panama in Nizhny Novgorod. Kane has netted 10 times in his last nine international matches and will back himself to continue his impressive run against a Panama side that let in three goals in their opener against Belgium.

The Tottenham striker was joined in attack last week by Raheem Sterling but the Manchester City forward's inconsistent form might mean a chance is given to Marcus Rashford. Kane's Spurs teammate Dele Ali could also lose his place as he struggles to recover in time from a thigh strain. Manager Gareth Southgate is also said to be considering using the naturally left-sided Danny Rose at left-back instead of right-footed Ashley Young.

Panama to keep faith in 4-1-4-1

Panama coach Hernan Gomez has predicted that his team's clash with England will be their most difficult of the tournament. Gomez is expected to maintain the 4-1-4-1 formation he used against Belgium, with experienced midfielder Gabriel Gomez sitting in front of a back four and 37-year-old Blas Perez playing as a lone striker.

The defence will be marshalled by Seattle Sounders center-half Roman Torres, whose winning goal against Costa Rica secured Panama's place in Russia. Recent results from their regional neighbors do not augur well for Panama; CONCACAF teams have won only one of their past 10 World Cup meetings against their European rivals.

Can Mane shine for Senegal?

Sadio Mane was strangely quiet in Senegal's 2-1 defeat of Poland in their opener. The Lions of Teranga will be hoping that his pace and clever dribbling will help unlock Japan's defence in Yekaterinburg. But he is not the team's only attacking weapon here.

Stoke City striker Mame Brima Diouf and Torino's M'Baye Niang, who scored against Poland, will also pose a forward threat. They will be hoping for good service from experienced England-based midfielders Alfred N'Diaye and Idrissa Gueye.

Will James Rodriguez start for Colombia?

Colombia coach Jose Pekerman has indicated that his team's most influential player has overcome a calf problem and will be fit to start against Poland in Kazan. Rodriguez was introduced as a 60th minute substitute in Colombia's opener against Japan, but was unable to help the Cafeteros avoid a 2-1 defeat in Saransk.

The Bayern Munich star could be used alongside River Plate playmaker Juan Quintero in a more attacking lineup to the one that faced Japan.

  

Related news

MorePhoto

Most popular in 24h

MoreTop news

MoreVideo

News
Politics
Business
Society
Culture
Military
Sci-tech
Entertainment
Sports
Odd
Features
Biz
Economy
Travel
Travel News
Travel Types
Events
Food
Hotel
Bar & Club
Architecture
Gallery
Photo
CNS Photo
Video
Video
Learning Chinese
Learn About China
Social Chinese
Business Chinese
Buzz Words
Bilingual
Resources
ECNS Wire
Special Coverage
Infographics
Voices
LINE
Back to top Links | About Us | Jobs | Contact Us | Privacy Policy
Copyright ©1999-2018 Chinanews.com. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.