2018 World Cup running thread

Russia will be the first team to clinch a knockout berth if Uruguay beats or draws Saudi Arabia tomorrow.

 

Wouldn't Uruguay be the other if they win?

 

Yes

 

Incorrect. The US was knocked out in the round of 16, and only survived the group stage because of this exceedingly flukey own goal:

The US went 1-2-1 in 94, with the only win due to that own goal gift. Not a convincing example of a home country uprising.

 

I would hate to see what would happen to the Russian players if they don’t advance from their group at home. I’m thinking own goal Columbia from back in the day.

 

Beat me to it. Are the gulags still open?

 

Colombia.

 

Damnit.

 

Co-first team then.

 

With all the Atlanta United fans in the Palmetto State, wouldn’t be surprised if they could field a home grown Hex-caliber team at least. /Ruben

 

You people really live in some kind of alternative universe.

We've gone from not expecting them to win a single point in the tournament to fearing for them if they don't finish in the top half of their group. In less than a week, no less.

 

Here's an interesting scenario... So, if Uruguay do as they should and beat Saudi Arabia tomorrow, both Russia and Uruguay are through. They'll then play each other in a game that will determine first and second in their group. If Group B does what it's supposed to do, they'll be matched up against Spain and Portugal. If it's obvious who's first and second in that group before the Group A finish, it will be interesting to see Russia and Uruguay exposing through their play who they want to play against next. I'm not sure who I'd rather play, given a choice between Spain and Portugal. I think Portugal is the obvious choice, but Ronaldo is such a crazy X factor.

EDIT: I have no idea if these ramblings make sense. I am high as a kite.