World Cup LIVE: Japan net equaliser against Netherlands as Jurgen Klopp issues apology

Ivory Coast have won thanks to Amad's late goal. They rode their luck at times but Emerse Fae's side are off to a winning start.

We were wondering if there was going to be a late goal and there has been. Amad Diallo with the finish one minute from normal time, but the goal came after some great work from Wilfried Singo. The Ecuador supporters have been silenced.

Yan Diomande is a player who continues to be the subject of transfer speculation. The Ivory Coast star is being linked with both PSG and Liverpool. And although he has done well so far in this game, John Yeboah has been the best player on the pitch. Yeboah has rattled the crossbar for Ecuador and been a part of everything that has been good from them. Just over 65 minutes gone and it remains goallees.

Goalless at the break and the game is certainly missing that clinical edge at the moment. However, Ecuador have twice hit the bar and have had the better of the chances, although Ivory Coast have created openings. But when it comes to supporters, there are certainly more Ecuador fans in attendance than Ivory Coast supporters.

Just over half-an-hour gone at the Philadelphia Stadium, and it remains goalless, but both sides have had chances. The closest, though, either side have come to opening the scoring was when John Yeboah rattled the crossbar with an effort from the right. A lot of talk about empty seats in stadiums so far, but this game looks to be a sell-out.

By Jeremy Armstrong in Kanas City

Thomas Tuchel's training sessions have been moved to a pitch surrounded by screens in Kansas City.

The first public session with schoolchildren took place at the Swope Soccer Village in a spot visible from a public road.

To avoid any possibility of 'spies' from opposition teams and media, tactical sessions are now held away from prying eyes.

Gyms are set up in a giant tent, sheltered from the glaring sunshine, and there is a regular supply of water and drinks.

However, the men's toilet is about 100m from the main pitch so players must dash there before sessions to use them.

The run in was featured on several live broadcasts during a brief media opportunity on Sunday.

The Ecuador and Ivory Coast players are in the tunnel!

They are about to walk out for the national anthems.

Who do you think will win in Philadelphia?

Led by Chelsea star Moises Caicedo, this is how Ecuador will line-up this evening!

The Ivory Coast's first starting XI of the World Cup is now in!

What are your thoughts?

We now return to Group E for the Ivory Coast vs Ecuador. This looks set to be another fascinating clash.

Who do you think will win? Team news will soon follow!

By Jeremy Cross in Houston

Jurgen Klopp has apologised to Julian Nagelsmann for casting doubts on his future as Germany boss. Klopp sparked a row in the German camp ahead of their World Cup campaign following some controversial comments on live TV.

The former Liverpool manager is working as one of the lead pundits on Magenta TV. He called on Nagelsmann to drop Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala for the opening game against Curacao.

But it was one word he used in an exchange with fellow pundit Thomas Muller which has led to Klopp making a grovelling apology. Klopp used the word “still” when referring to Nagelsmann being the national team manager.

He said: "Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team", as if to suggest he won’t be for too much longer, depending on how Germany get on at the tournament.

Klopp has been widely tipped to replace Nagelsmann as the next German manager. In the meantime, however, he has been left eating humble pie.

And he admits he feels so stupid for saying it, he could "punch himself in the face".

In the wake of Germany's seven goal spanking of Curacao, Klopp said:

In the wake of Germany's seven goal spanking of Curacao, Klopp said: "I've already found the most hated word of the year: 'Still'.

"I could have punched myself in the face for that, but it was already too late and I was on TV. It just slipped out so casually, and has absolutely no relevance.

"What I've realised is, I'll be 59 on Tuesday and I'm still an idiot."

Klopp insists he is fully behind Nagelsmann and told him: "We are completely on your side, whatever you do with this. Nothing will come of it that is intended to disrupt the process here."

Daichi Kamada's equaliser secured a dramatic 2-2 draw for Japan.

As a result of the header deflecting off him on its way in, Crystal Palace's Daichi Kamada has been credited with the equalising goal.

Either way, Japan won't matter - they are level and are looking for a late winner.

Ally McCoist has not been impressed by Bart Verbruggen's attempts of saving the Japanese header. Ogawa's header deflected off Kamada on its way to the goal.

However, Verbruggen got both hands on the effort and could only push it into the roof of the net.

They've done it! Japan have equalised. It's the substitute Koki Ogawa with a header!

The Japanese believe there is a result for them here and who could blame them. The Netherlands have dropped into a back five, which is only enticing wave after wave of blue attacks.

Thomas Tuchel will endure an awkward reunion when England face Croatia on Wednesday. The Three Lions' World Cup campaign gets underway against the 2022 bronze medallists.

However, the man in the middle is a figure Tuchel has not had a great experience with - referee Clement Turpin. In 2023, when Bayern Munich were knocked out of the Champions League by Manchester City, Tuchel was furious with the official.

He said: "Two things couldn't keep up with the level. The pitch wasn't in good condition and also the referee, unfortunately was Grade E. I'd give him a one out of ten. He was absolutely terrible.

"It's unbelievable at this level. He was whistling for everything and anything. Everything was against us. In the end, we were never in a position to turn things around with three men against us. That's a fact."

You know that feeling when you hear a tune and you think, 'I'm sure I've heard this before?'

Well, those bells of familiarity were ringing after Summerville found the net. As he and his team-mates celebrated, a Dutch version of Auld Lang Syne? played over the speakers.

No, us neither!

As you may have figured out, Crysencio Summerville has fired the Dutch back into the lead. He receives a pass on the right-hand-side, cuts onto his left and curls a low finish off the far post into the back of the net.

A poor first half has given way to a proper football match - can Japan come back again?

How about this then?

Japan, as they do so often at the World Cup, have come from behind. Nakamura has sent a crisp finish into the bottom corner.

He creates some space for himself in the Dutch penalty and pulls a slick effort back to the near post, through the legs of Van Hecke and into the net.

Game on!

Virgil van Dijk has headed Netherlands into the lead in emphatic fashion. It's a goal made in Liverpool for the Dutch.

Ryan Gravenberch whips an out-swinging cross into the net and Van Dijk caresses a header back across goal, off the far post and into the net.

The second half has just kicked off - who do you think will win?

It's all square here at the Dallas Stadium.

There were some sights of goal but, overall, a very cagey half of football from both sides.

Who do you think will come out on top?

They've been quiet this half, but Japan have come so close to taking the lead. A deep cross picks out Keito Nakamura just inside the penalty area.

He chops onto his right foot and pulls an effort back across himself to the near post. His effort only just misses the near post.

Bart Verbruggen was scrambling and probablu would not have got there.

A minute later Ayase Ueda isn freed down the right and hits a first time half volley into the net - the side of the net.

Two chances in two minutes for Japan - they are looking dangerous!

Cody Gakpo had the goal at his mercy after Denzel Dumfried headed a deep free-kick back across goal.

The Liverpool forward was free on the penalty spot, but he was falling backwards as he made contact with the ball, and sent his effort over the crossbar.

Our man of the match may be becoming clear.

Unbelievably, it's Donyell Malen again. The Villa forward rises highest and heads a corner well, but the Japanese keeper reacts quickly to beat it away.

There's an argument he could have held it, but that would be harsh. Either way, he's kept the ball out the back of the net.

Is the game about to open up?

Both teams seem to be feeling each other out. As we've entered into the hydration break, the word we, and Ally McCoist would us, is 'cagey'.

Donyell Malen's shot on the third minute is still the best chance that's been created.

Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has just made a save from the top drawer. Donyell Malen swivelled on the head of a pin and lashed a fierce effort at goal.

It may have been far from the corner, but Suzuki had no time to react to it. How important could that save be?

Japan beat England 1-0 in March and have plenty of attacking quality in Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo, Feyenoord marksman Ayase Ueda and Celtic hero Daizen Maeda.

Holland are stacked with a plethora of Premier League players - big ones too - including Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Micky van de Ven, Cody Gakpo and don't sleep on ex-Aston Villa forward Donyell Malen, who nearly won the Serie A Golden Boot despite only joining Roma in January.

There are a fair few empty seats in the middle tier of the Dallas Stadium but slowly but surely, this monstrous arena is filling up.

I can't see any way these fans won't be entertained because both sides play attractive football and will commit players forward.

Here's a reminder of the two teams:

Netherlands:

1 | Bart Verbruggen

22 | Denzel Dumfries

6 | Jan Paul van Hecke

4 | Virgil van Dijk

15 | Micky van de Ven

8 | Ryan Gravenberch

21 | Frenkie de Jong

14 | Tijjani Reijnders

24 | Crysencio Summerville

18 | Donyell Malen

11 | Cody Gakpo

Japan:

1 | Zion Suzuki

16 | Tsuyoshi Watanabe

3 | Shogo Taniguchi

21 | Hiroki Ito

10 | Ritsu Doan

24 | Kaishu Sano

15 | Daichi Kamada

13 | Keito Nakamura

8 | Takefusa Kubo

11 | Daizen Maeda

18 | Ayase Ueda

England supporters attending Wednesday's World Cup opener against Croatia in Dallas face paying absurd prices for food and drink at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Sunday's Group F opener between the Netherlands and Japan offered a first glimpse at those costs, which do not make for pleasant reading when compared with other World Cup host cities.A normal draft pint of beer (16oz) will set you back $18.50 (£13.84) while 'American beer' costs $15.95 (£11.93).Even non-alcoholic beer (16oz) will cost fans $16.95 (£12.68) a pop.Meanwhile, a basic bottle of water (20oz) is priced at $8.25 (around £6.20), though all fans will be permitted to bring in one, soft, plastic factory-sealed disposable bottle of water into any World Cup game in the USA and Canada.Upon arrival at the Dallas Stadium, however, it is understood that supporters were asked to remove their bottle lids.

With the action between Germany and Curaçao wrapping up, fans are building excitement for the Dutch to take on Japan.

Many have argued that this is one of the showpiece group stage clashes, with plenty of firepower on both sides.

Japan will be looking to improve on their round-of-16 exit to Croatia in 2022. Meanwhile, the Dutch reached the quarter-finals that year before being knocked out by eventual champions Argentina.

There's a lot riding on this match for both, with maximum points desired by Ronald Koeman and Hajime Moriyasu.

Japan's starting XI is also in!

Here is how the Netherlands will line-up against Japan!

By Jeremy Cross in Houston

Germany's World Cup bid got lift off in Houston thanks to a thumping triumph over minnows Curacao. But this game won't be remembered for what everyone expected to happen.

It will live long in the memory for what shouldn't have. An equalising goal from Livano Comenecia that sent an entire Caribbean nation into delirium - and a footballing powerhouse into complete shock.

In the end Julian Nagelsmann's side romped clear, to avoid suffering what would have been a major problem in Houston. But for a few beautiful minutes, this had threatened to become the biggest upset in World Cup history.

Felix Nmecha opened the scoring for Germany with a sublime goal inside six minutes. Then all hell broke loose when Comenecia beat the great Manuel Neuer with a rocket of a strike - to send shockwaves around North America and beyond.

Curacao couldn't, could they? The emphatic answer was no. Germany have endured utter misery at the previous two World Cups, having failed to get out of the group stages.

Which appeared to fuel their desire to avoid some more of the stuff. Manchester United target Nico Schotterbeck restored the German lead, before Kai Havertz struck again from the penalty spot on the stroke of half time.

Jamal Musiala added a fourth, to stick two fingers up to Jurgen Klopp's calls for him to be dropped. Before Nathaniel Brown piled on the pain with an instant volley past Eloy Room.

Substitute Deniz Undav hit Curacao for six before Havertz completed the rout with his second of the afternoon, to leave Curacao supporters beaten, but certainly not downbeat.

Because they gave their players a standing ovation at the final whistle. Despite seeing them concede seven goals.

By Jeremy Armstrong in Kansas City

One of the two men accused of stealing England team kit claimed he was told that he could take it, court documents reveal. The Jackson county court documents state: "Mustafa Salik went to West Palm Beach for a load.

"When labourers were loading the truck, Salik observed one of the labourers stealing some shoes. It should not be noted a translator for Pashto was provided."

She said: "Jackson County will not tolerate any criminal activity that targets World Cup visitors, including the international teams.

The alleged theft happened somewhere on the 1,238-mile, 20-hour road trip from England’s pre-tournament base camp in West Palm Beach, Florida, to Kansas.

The documents add that a defendant is 'presumed innocent' until they are 'either found guilty or plead guilty'.

The final whistle has been blown and the match is over. Germany have ran out 7-1 winners.

Curacao will never forget their historic goal in the first half but, if anything, they may have only poked the bear by doing so. There will be tougher challenges for Germany ahead, but they look set to be a force.

Germany have made it seven. Kai Havertz has scooped a wonderful finish over the Curacao goalkeeper.

They are now firmly in control of Group E. In fairness to Curacao, they have only equalled the scoreline of the 2014 World Cup semi-final when the Germans stuck seven past Brazil.

It's Germany 6-1 Curacao and, if we're being honest, there may be more goals coming.

Deniz Undav put the finishing touch on a prodding Germany move. That goal looked like something on a five-a-side pitch.

It's a shame for the World Cup debutants, but this will be a long 22 minutes.

Nathaniel Brown's hand was offside - of course, one cannot score with their hand.

The goal is allowed and it was a good one. He finishes off a flowing team move with an emphatic volley.

Germany are smelling blood now - they sense an opportunity to bulk their goal difference.

It was coming!

Germany have scored a fifth through Arsenal transfer target Nathaniel Brown, but VAR are checking!

Curacao have just reminded the Germans they are still here! Leandro Bacuna evades the Germany back-line on a set piece and has a free header.

However, he can't keep it down and it sails harmlessly over the bar. Something to think about for Julian Nagelsmann's side but they are still firmly in the drivers' seat.

From Ryan Taylor in Dallas

Up next will be a Group F encounter between Netherlands and Japan. They will be kicking off at 9pm at the Dallas Stadium.

The AT&T Stadium, or Dallas Stadium as per official World Cup records, is a fitting venue for this Group F firecracker between the Netherlands and Japan.

The PA has documented that both teams have now left their respective team hotels and it won't be long before the two sides get this show on the road.

These two nations also met in the group stages back in 2010 when Wesley Sneijder netted the winner in South Africa.Japan were rocked by the news that their captain Wataru Endo would not be able to participate in the World Cup earlier this week following an ankle injury sustained in February. He's since announced his retirement from international football.Most of these players will be known to fans of the Premier League. Eight of Holland's projected starters play in the English top-flight while Samurai Blue also have a plethora of stars from the Premier League including Conference League winner Daichi Kamada and Leeds' Ao Tanaka.

Jamal Musiala finishes off a slick Germany move to make it 4-1. It only took two second half minutes.

Joshua Kimmich threads a perfectly weighted pass through the Curacao defence and Musiala whips a finish across goal into the far corner.

Now, it's surely a question of how many for Germany.

Kai Havertz's penalty has proven to be one of the final kicks of the half. They lead Curacao 3-1

Is there any way back for the Caribbeans?

Kai Havertz doubles Germany's lead on the stroke of half time. The Arsenal forward calmly slotted home his spot-kick, sending the keeper the wrong way.

Germany are now winning 3-1 and it's difficult to see how Curacao can get back from here. Can they recover?

Curacao have conceded a penalty and this could be the match. Riechedly Bazoer lunges into a tackle and scythes down Felix Nmecha.

Kai Havertz will step up

Leandro Bacuna has just cleared a shot from Aleksandar Pavlović off the line. I think Curacao's defenders have registered more saves than their goalkeeper.

Germany are purring again by Curacao are hanging in there and are still in this contest!

Germany have pulled themselves together and regained the lead. Nathaniel Brown's in-swinging corner found the head of Nico Schlotterbeck, who nodded in from close range.

The Borussia Dortmund ace had a free header after escaping all of Curacao's defences. Can the Caribbeans fire back again?

Leroy Sane looked set to put Germany back ahead. However, Curacao right back Deveron Fonville slid in and kept his goal-bound low shot out of goal.

His block was vital as he had beaten goalkeeper Eloy Room with his strike.

He has just scored their first ever World Cup goal and now he's kept one out at the other end. Livano Comenencia made a goal saving block from Pavlovic.

A huge moment!

Can you believe it, Curacao are level with the four-time World Cup winners. The roof in Houston may have just come off.

Manuel Neuer has just been beaten by Livano Comenencia. His low finish deflects slightly off a German defender and zips past the Bayern Munich goalkeeper!

Are we about to see one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history?

Julian Nagelsmann's side are purring right now and this may be bad news for Curacao. Florian Wirtz and Leroy Sane have both gone close with efforts.

Dick Advocaat's side are bright and energetic on the counterattack, but they are struggling to get home of the Germans.

Felix Nmecha has broke the deadlock after five minutes. Rweall unfortunate for the Carribeans, as Armando Obisbo excellently blocked a shot from Jamal Musiala.

However, Nmecha quickly got the ball back and whipped a magnificent effort around the defender and into the far corner.

Germany 1-0 Curacao

From Jeremy Cross in Houston

A measure of the discrepancy in media focus that exists between Germany and Curacao could be found before kick off.

As the players lined up for team pictures, the photographers lined up to take snaps of Julian Nagelsmann.

Around 50 got as close to the German manager as possible. While Dick Advocaat attracted much less attention.

And this is a Dutchman who remains one of the most well known bosses in the business.

He managed the Holland side at the 1974 World Cup, before Nagelsmann was even born.

And here in Houston, at the age of 78, is becoming the oldest manager to ever take charge of a team at the World Cup.

Germany and Curacao has officially kicked off. The four-time champions are wearing their traditional white as Curacao are donned in full blue and yellow.

From Jeremy Cross in Houston

Those Curacao supporters who have made the trip from the Caribbean to Houston for the World Cup find themselves outnumbered.

The Germans are out in force for this opening Group E game in the Houston Stadium.

But the 7,000 Curacao fans decked out in replica blue shirts couldn't care less.

This is their first experience of seeing their team take part in the greatest show on turf.

Things might change once the game starts, but those from Curacao are in superb spirits for what is a novel experience.

Loads of them posed with Texas state troopers for photographs en-route to the stadium, looking to make historic memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Large cheers erupted inside the stadium when the Curacao team was read out on the big screen, accompanied with a video reel of footage from back in Curacao, which included the team's highlights of its qualification campaign.

Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann, meanwhile, has completely ignored Jurgen Klopp's calls for him to drop Jamal Musiala, and the Bayern Munich superstar starts the game.

David James and Scott Carson faced off against darts stars Luke Humphries, Johnny Clayton and Gian van Veen in a unique penalty shootout labelled the BetVictor World Cup of Darts. The action in Canada, Mexico and the USA is not the only World Cup going on.

The World Cup of darts is also in motion at the moment. They were not the only darts stars as the likes of South African Devon Peterson and darts cult hero Paul Lim of Singapore also took part.

The England team had to quickly seek shelter after tornado sirens sounded around Kansas City. The Three Lions had to quickly get inside after emergency alerts confirmed a fierce storm was spotted near the Randolph and World of Fun area of Clay County.

An emergency alert sent to mobile phones read: "Critical. Imminent Threat Alert. National Weather Service: SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING in effect for this area until 9:00 PM CDT for DESTRUCTIVE 80 mph winds.

“Take shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building."

To read the full story follow here

The BBC issued an apology after they lost picture during Scotland's 1-0 victory over Haiti. The Scots' first World Cup match in 28 years was disrupted by a 'ESF UHD C' appearing on the screens for around five seconds.

Commentator Liam McLeod told viewers what was going on when he said, "Apologies again if there's a loss of picture, it's a World Feed problem so everyone suffered it. But you're back with us now" before a message at the top of the screen said: "Sorry for the loss of picture."

Here is Curacao's first ever World Cup starting XI which features one former Manchester United ace.

Do you recognise the ex-Red Devil in the pack?

This is how Germany will line-up against Curacao. Considering the strength in the team, Julian Nagelsmann is treating the Carribeans with the utmost respect.

How far do you think this team can go?

Before the World Cup, many may not have heard of Curacao as a nation. The tiny country is located in the southern Caribbean sea and is just 37 miles north of the coast of Venezuela.

Only 155,826 people live on the island according to their most recent census and it is technically considered as a part of the Netherlands. However, in the USA, they will be competing under their own flag.

Can this tiny nation, which has a similar population to Chelmsford and Oxford, overcome the odds and become the breakout team in the World Cup?

An excellent question.

Your next football fix kicks off at 6pm and it's a historic match. Four-time World Champions Germany face off against debutants Curacao.

Can the tiny Caribbean island cause a shock or will it be a question of how many for Julian Nagelsmann's side.

TWO toy lions and a set of Lego were among England kit worth £13,500 stolen from a van delivering it to the team’s World Cup HQ.

Mustafa Salik and Erfan Kamal have been charged over the heist which happened as the vehicle was ferrying gear from the Three Lions’ pre-tournament training camp in Florida to its Kansas City base.

Three signed shirts worth over £11,000 were also pinched.

Team mascot Leo the Lion arrived safely after being carried on the squad bus by the players and was not one of the cuddly toys stolen.

According to the Jackson County prosecutor's office raiders swiped four pairs of football boots together worth £1,000, five pairs of shoes worth £850, a £160 World Cup ball and a pair of £120 goalkeeper gloves.

A signed red shirt and two white ones worth £3,740 each were also swiped along with shorts, tops, the stuffed lions and a Lego set of a Nike Air shoe.

England stars were forced to seek shelter on Saturday evening as a confirmed tornado and fierce storm system tore through Kansas City, where the Three Lions, Argentina, Algeria and the Netherlands are all stationed for the World Cup, reports Sahil Kurup.

Tornado sirens blared across the city in the early evening, with emergency alerts confirming a tornado near the Randolph and World of Fun area of Clay County, tracking eastward through Missouri City and towards Sibley.

From Jeremy Cross in Houston

The best laid plans of Houston organisers ahead of the opening World Cup game are in danger of being ruined.

Germany will take on minnows Curacao in the opening match of Group E at the Houston Stadium.

Almost 80,000 fans are expected to attend the game, which kicks off at 12noon local time.

But getting to the ground is proving easier said than done.

Because some of Houston's emergency services are struggling to get to the stadium on time.

First responders and event vendors assigned to work at the game, have reported huge delays heading to the Houston Stadium, which hosted the Super Bowl back in 2019.

Traffic has become gridlocked in on the major routes towards the stadium.

An accident has contributed to the congestion.

Just to complicate matters, tropical storms are forecast to hit the area during the game, which could cause more chaos and confusion.

Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann has praised Curacao manager Dick Advocaat ahead of their World Cup clash later today.

Nagelsmann told reporters, via ESPN:

FIFA is set to pay the full tournament fee to referee Omar Artan, reports Amie Wilson.

The Somalian official was refused entry to the USA while travelling to officiate at the World Cup.

BBC Sport have reported that, even though Artan will not have taken charge of any fixture at the World Cup, he will still receive his full payment from FIFA.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp made reference to Julian Nagelsmann's future as Germany boss.

Klopp is currently working for German broadcaster Magenta TV, and Germany’s World Cup opener against Curacao on Sunday night in Houston, when the topic of Nagelsmann’s future came up.

Klopp is quoted as having said:

Another busy day of World Cup action continues today, with several important matches taking place across North America.

Here, Express Sport takes a look at today's fixtures:

Group E

Germany vs Curacao (6pm UK time)

Ivory Coast vs Ecuador (12am UK time)

Group F

Netherlands vs Japan (9pm UK time)

Sweden vs Tunisia (3am UK time)

Heartwarming pictures from overnight in Boston as John McGinn and Scotland's players celebrate with their families after beating Haiti.

The talk of the tournament so far is that performance from Ayyoub Bouaddi during Morocco's 1-1 draw with Brazil.

It could genuinely prompt clubs who are keen to now make their move. Arsenal are said to be interested and who can blame them? He ran the show.

Two men have now been charged over an alleged theft of items during England's move from their Florida base to Kansas City.

The full list of items said to have been stolen is as follows:

So, what is in store for us today then? We don't have as long to wait as we have the last couple of days for the first match to kick-off in Germany vs Curacao (6pm). The Netherlands take on Japan at 9pm while it's Ivory Coast vs Ecuador at midnight tomorrow followed up by Sweden vs Tunisia at 3am.

How would it feel to have your work and ideas critiqued by someone who has been heavily linked with your job?

That is the current predicament for Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann. Die Mannschaft's chief finds himself frequently mooted with being replaced by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

And the Reds icon has found himself become the topic of criticism by Germany legend Lothar Matthaus.

It comes after Klopp and Bayern Munich hero Thomas Muller called for Jamal Musiala to be dropped for Denis Undav.

Matthaus told BILD:

With Klopp having a history with pundits and those analysing his teams, the shoe is now on the other foot.

Saturday and Sunday results:

Group B: Qatar 1-1 Switzerland

Group C: Brazil 1-1 Morocco

Scotland 1-0 Haiti

Group D: USA 4-1 Paraguay

Australia 2-0 Turkey

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A lot was made of the quality of football with the tournament expanding, just the 11 goals from five matches across Saturday and Sunday. Do you think the quality has diminished as a result of the new format?

The Brazil match was largely eventless, if anything the encounter exposed their weaknesses.

Scotland regressed against Haiti and dragged themselves over the line in the end.

The performance Mauricio Pochettino's side on Saturday morning is the standout so far. Who would've thought?!

Coupons well and truly busted.

A famous win for Australia who have overcome Turkey to get off to a winning start in Group D.

Patrick Beach soaks up the acclaim as the camera pans to him, the 22-year-old goalkeeper hadn't played competitively for Australia before tonight.

He put in a superb performance to help the Socceroos to victory.

Connor Metcalfe's second-half effort doubled their advantage after Nestory Irankunda's opener.

By Jeremy Armstrong in Kansas City.

England keeper Dean Henderson told how his boots and gloves were stolen in a raid on the team training base - then returned to him

The Crystal Palace stopper smiled when asked about the theft but added: "I think they got stolen but we got them back so it’s all good.”

England's equipment was missing when a van arrived at their Swope Soccer Village base. It was feared they had got away with Harry Kane's Skechers SKX 2 Elite boots marked "HK" alongside names of his children Ivy, Vivienne, Louis, and Henry plus a St George's Cross.

But insiders later disclosed the haul comprised spare footwear and other training equipment. The stolen footballs were said to be spares used mainly for charity signings and not the high-end versions used in training.

Two for Australia and it's Connor Metcalfe.

This game hasn't been a classic by any stretch of the imagination but it's two moments of quality from the Socceroos.

What are Turkey doing? They stand off and Metcalfe curls into the bottom corner.

It's half-time in Vancouver and Australia lead.

Nestory Irankunda's effort inside half-an-hour is the difference.

Turkey look good but lack any clinical edge in the final third, which the Socceroos have displayed.

A great moment for the Watford winger. As it stands, Australia move level on points with USA.

Watford have a World Cup goalscorer, no, seriously.

Nestory Irankunda step right up.

It's route one, the winger knocks it down, knocks it past the defender and finishes with aplomb.

It has been a poor opening 25 minutes but it's come alive.

While I type, Patrick Beach makes a fantastic fingertip save to preserve Australia's lead.

We're underway in the second game in Group D with Australia taking on Turkey.

Turkish starlet Arda Guler is involved and if you cast your mind back, he had a breakout tournament at Euro 2024.

There will be more onus on him to perform this summer now he is two years older and with more experience at Real Madrid.

Australia team to play Turkey: Beach, Circati, Italiano, Bos, Souttar, Burgess, Metcalfe, O'Neil, Okon-Engstler, Toure, Irankunda.

Turkey team to face Australia: Cakir, Celik, Demiral, Bardakci, Kadioglu, Koku, Calhanoglu, Yuksek, Akturkoglu, Guler, Yilmaz.

The man of the moment: John McGinn.

He has now immortalised himself in Scottish folklore with his contribution tonight.

It's nearly 5am here and around 11:30pm in Boston but the party will go long into the night from a Scotland perspective.

He said:

Scotland win.

Super John McGinn does it for the Tartan Army.

Scotland are top of Group C following their win and the 1-1 draw between Brazil and Morocco.

It wasn't easy or a smooth ride for the Scots but they're over the line.

Two men have been charged with receiving stolen property in relation to the stolen England kit and equipment.

Mustafa Salik and Erfan Kamal each face one count of the Class D felony, under Missouri law, and face up to seven years in prison.

It has been found that the stolen property was in the region of $18,000 (£13k) and linked to the Three Lions.

Prosecutor Johnson said: "Jackson County will not tolerate any criminal activity that targets World Cup visitors, including the international teams that have travelled here to compete.

"We thank the Kansas City Police Department and our on-call attorneys for their quick work investigating this incident and filing charges immediately. Our office is committed to holding these individuals accountable."

Haiti might be under a travel ban from Donald Trump preventing many of their fans from travelling to the World Cup, but in the bars around the Gillette Stadium in Boston you wouldn't know it.

Outnumbering Scots by 50 to 1 in some establishments the Haiti supporters generated an atmosphere to match the stadium. Each attack from the Central American side sparked screams of excitement from fans wearing replica shirts, flags and, in one case, with their own boombox on a shoulder.

Ahead of the game a group Haitian fans also made one of the tournament's most stylish entrances. Pulling up to the Gillette Stadium parking lot in customised three-wheel Polaris Slingshots with flashing lights.

Tonight the thousands of Scots will still dominate the Boston sidewalks tonight. But one thing is clear, what the Haitians lack in numbers they make up for with passion.

The second-half is back underway and the Haitians will not make this easy for Scotland.

Aaron Hickey is now on a tightrope after picking up a yellow card within seconds of the restart.

Ben Gannon-Doak is the danger man for Scotland.

Given they play Morocco and Scotland, goal difference should really feed into the minds of these players now.

What a season John McGinn is having.

Champions League qualification, Europa League winner and now a goalscorer at the World Cup with Scotland.

As it stands, that goal sends the Tartan Army top of Group C.

There's still a long way to go and a narrow advantage.

It was a positive start but Haiti have shown they are no pushovers.

John McGinn is the man to break the drought and get lift off for Scotland.

Shortly after the hydration break, the deadlock has been broken.

It's all Che Adams. He leads the attack before recyling to Gannon-Doak. The Bournemouth man leaves the defender in his wake and finds Adams but the Haiti goalkeeper makes a great reflex save.

It isn't enough as the ball falls to McGinn who steers home, with the help of a deflection.

Meanwhile, England will be watching on.

Teammates and opponents will have an eager eye on what transpires in Boston.

But they have now been distracted by a severe thunderstorm warning.

They would have hoped that it would have been the last of it in Florida, that delayed their final warm-up against Costa Rica by an hour, but they have now been issued another one.

The Press Association's Simon Peach has tweeted news that an alert has been distributed, warning locals of "severe thunderstorms" with winds of up to 80mph.

Miguel Delaney has revealed that the Fox Sports broadcast of the Scotland game has been disrupted with a weather alert, while play continues in a small window in the top right of the broadcast.

If you're a Scotland fan, the excitement will now be trepidation and nerves. The feeling that will evaporate with a goal.

After a fast start, Haiti have grown into the game and the wide areas, particularly Scotland's right, seems to be an area that they're targeting.

Scotland have had half chances, Ben Gannon-Doak shot from range was an easy save before Scott McTominay headed over.

But Haiti are well in this.

And it's live.

Scotland have waited 28 years for this and they even kick off the game.

A spine-tingling rendition of Flowers of Scotland echoed around the Boston Stadium and it would have been just as good at home in Scotland.

Haiti team to face Scotland: Placide, Arcus, Ade, Delcroix, Experience, Louicius, Jacques, Bellegarde, Providence, Peirrot, Isidor.

Scotland team to face Haiti: Gunn; Hickey, Hendry, Hanley, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, McTominay, Ferguson, McGinn; Shankland, Adams.

FIFA have released a statement following the controversy in the first match of the evening between Qatar and Switzerland, which finished 1-1.

They said:

It comes after Switzerland were awarded a penalty when Remon Freuler was fouled by the Qatar goalkeeper. However, freeze frames showed that he had strayed offside.

But the decision to award a penalty stood and Breel Embolo dispatched the spot-kick.

It wasn't enough however as Qatar secured their first ever point at a World Cup thanks to Boualem Khouki's header.

Now then, Haiti.

A nation ranked 83 by FIFA.

They're not to be scoffed at, however.

Sunderland's Wilson Isidor leads the line for them, the 25-year-old comes into the World Cup on the back of six goals in the Premier League.

A win for either side will take them top the group.

Haiti team to face Scotland: Placide, Arcus, Ade, Delcroix, Experience, Louicius, Jacques, Bellegarde, Providence, Peirrot, Isidor.

Well, it may just be the perfect result for Scotland in the grand scheme of things.

Two of the group favourites cannot be separated after 90 minutes.

Vinicius Jr cancels out Ismael Saibari's opener.

Brazil had chances in the second-half but couldn't find their way through and they had Alisson Becker to thank for a stoppage-time double save.

Scotland and Napoli hero Scott McTominay STARTS!

It's huge news for the Tartan Army as they take on Haiti.

Brazil remains 1-1, which could be the perfect result for Scotland. If it stays this way, Scotland could go top with a win - they'll be stopping the count then!

Team to face Haiti: Gunn; Hickey, Hendry, Hanley, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, McTominay, Ferguson, McGinn; Shankland, Adams.

The Tartan Army are over in their droves.

The supporters are enjoying themselves and why not. One tweet suggests a boat party was in full voice and full of pints from 11am in Boston Harbour.

Do the hopes rest on Scott McTominay? The former Manchester United midfielder was forced to train on his own due to an upset stomach in the build up.

All eyes on team news.

It was an evening to forget for Manchester United's Casemiro.

Hooked and booked for the Brazilian.

He looked sluggish and off the pace in their group opener. The veteran was too slow and passive allowing the Moroccan midfield to run all over them.

It was a dominant spell for the Africans. They could be dark horses here.

Hello and welcome!

Is it morning? Is it evening? Either way we're just getting restarted here on the Express football blog.

The second half has just kicked off in New York between Scotland's group opponents, Brazil and Morocco.

Carlo Ancelotti's side are level through Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr.

He levelled after Ismael Saibari opened the scoring, deservedly so, after 20 minutes.