As we approach the end of the second round of group-stage fixtures, here are some of the key talking points we have learned from the World Cup so far.

Eloy Room’s goalkeeping masterclass – The 37-year-old keeper produced an outstanding performance against Ecuador, totalling a record-equalling 15 regulation time saves to gain Curacao’s first ever point at a World Cup.

The only goalkeeper to equal Room’s tally, was Tim Howard against Belgium in 2014.

Fearless Cape Verde – Cape Verde has emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament so far. The Island Nation held both Spain and Uruguay to draws, giving them a great opportunity to progress to the knockout stages, as the play Saudi Arabia on Friday evening.

Turkey heading home – Turkey’s World Cup campaign has been horrendous to say the least. Two defeats from two against Australia and Paraguay leaves one of the tournaments “Dark Horses” bottom of Group D.

Japan continue to impress – Japan have been impressive. After an important point against the Netherlands, they ran relentless against Tunisia, winning 4-0, giving themselves a great opportunity to progress into the next round.

Host Nations – Mexico, USA and Canada all top their group, with Mexico and USA already guaranteed to play in the round of 32.

Mexico haven’t conceded a goal, while the USA and Canada have ran rampant in recent fixtures, accumulating 13 goals between them after two fixtures.

A strong start from the host nations, but how far can they go?

Established Morocco – After a fantastic World Cup in 2022, Morocco have continued to impress on the world’s biggest stage. They held Brazil to a point in their opening game before defeating Scotland 1-0 to put themselves in a strong position.

Ismael Saibari being the standout performer for 2022’s Semi-Finalist’s.

England of to strong start – England have started their World Cup campaign strongly. After dismantling Croatia in the second-half last Wednesday evening, Thomas Tuchel’s side will have lots of confidence going into Tuesday’s fixture against Ghana.

Although there were defensive problems in the first half, England’s attacking talent flourished. With Harry Kane at the double, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford were also on the scoresheet.