The final round of World Cup group play continues Thursday and Friday with three groups in action. The main focus is the Netherlands against Tunisia and Germany against Ecuador, while host nation the United States returns to Los Angeles for a showcase match against Turkey.
In Group 4, the United States and Turkey meet in a match that changes nothing. The Americans have already clinched first place after beating Paraguay and Australia, while Turkey has lost to both and will finish last. Mauricio Pochettino got a boost as Christian Pulisic returned to training after missing the previous game, and the Milan midfielder is expected to start. Tyler Adams, who is carrying a yellow card, is likely to be rested. Also in this group, Australia and Paraguay meet in San Francisco knowing a draw would send both through, with Australia holding the edge on goal difference. Paraguay also knows that four points would almost certainly secure a third-place berth. Miguel Almiron, sent off in the win over Turkey, will miss out.
In Group 5, Germany have already secured a place in the round of 16 and first place after Deniz Undav scored the winner against Ivory Coast. As a reward, Undav is expected to start against Ecuador as the No. 10 in place of Jamal Musiala, while Nick Woltemade is set to lead the attack. German reports say Oliver Baumann could start in goal instead of Manuel Neuer as part of the rotation. Ecuador has only one point and must win to advance. Curacao still has a chance to reach the round of 32 after its surprise draw with Ecuador, but it must beat Ivory Coast. Ivory Coast will be without Wilfried Singo, who was injured against Germany, although the injury is not expected to end his tournament. The Ivorians have three points and will advance as long as they do not lose.
In Group 6, the Netherlands will host Tunisia knowing that a win guarantees first place. Ronald Koeman’s side has four points and will face a Tunisia defense that has already conceded nine goals. Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey are expected to keep scoring, while Koeman is deciding between Donyell Malen and Chresencio Summerville in attack. Tunisia has no points and is already eliminated. In Dallas, Japan and Sweden meet in another key game. Japan has four points and Sweden three, and a draw would suit both, though neither side is likely to settle for it. Anthony Elanga may start for Graham Potter’s team, while Takuma Kubo remains out for Japan.
