# World Cup 2026 Day 6 Preview: France, Argentina Headline Action Amid Record Draws and Shock Sacking
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## The 2026 World Cup Is Off to a Wild Start
We’re only six days into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the tournament has already delivered some unforgettable moments. From **Cape Verde’s historic 0-0 draw against Spain** to **Tunisia’s shock decision to sack manager Sabri Lamouchi after just one match** — this World Cup is rewriting the script.
Here’s everything you need to know heading into Day 6.
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## Record-Breaking Draws Dominate the Opening Week
Eight of the first 16 matches have ended in draws — the **highest number** of any World Cup at this stage. Monday made history when all four matches finished level (the first time since June 15, 1958):
| Match | Score |
|—|—|
| Spain vs Cape Verde | 0-0 |
| Belgium vs Egypt | 1-1 |
| Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay | 1-1 |
| Iran vs New Zealand | 2-2 |
The expanded 48-team format means teams can afford a cautious start — three draws would almost certainly secure progression to the Round of 32.
## Cape Verde Stun Spain in Historic Debut
The story of the tournament so far? **Cape Verde** — one of the smallest nations ever to qualify — held European champions Spain to a **0-0 draw** in their first-ever World Cup match.
Shamrock Rovers defender **Roberto “Pico” Lopes** was the hero, making a desperate last-ditch challenge in the 88th minute to preserve the clean sheet. Lopes, who was recruited via LinkedIn, is now the first League of Ireland player to feature in a World Cup finals match.
> “It was an incredible evening. To see him play at that level against that calibre of player and to hold his own — we are immensely proud of him.” — Ciaran Stafford, Pride of Ringsend Supporters’ Club
## Tunisia Sack Lamouchi After One Game — Replace with Herve Renard
In a stunning move, **Tunisia** have parted ways with manager **Sabri Lamouchi** after just one match — a 2-0 loss to Sweden. This is the first time a manager has been sacked after a single World Cup game.
Former Morocco and Saudi Arabia manager **Herve Renard** has taken over. Tunisia still face Japan and Netherlands in Group F.
## Europe’s Slow Start: Only 3 of 10 European Teams Have Won
The heat and expanded format are making life difficult for Europe’s traditional powers:
– **Winners:** Germany, Scotland, Sweden
– **Draws or losses:** Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Netherlands, and others
**Zero South American teams** have won so far, with Brazil held by Morocco and Uruguay drawing with Saudi Arabia.
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## Today’s Matches (Day 6)
| Match | Kickoff (BST) | Venue |
|—|—|—|
| France vs Senegal | 20:00 | New York/New Jersey |
| Iraq vs Norway | 23:00 | TBD |
| Argentina vs Algeria | 02:00 | TBD |
| Austria vs Jordan | 05:00 | TBD |
The headline fixture is **France vs Senegal** — a rematch of the 2002 World Cup opener, where Senegal famously shocked the defending champions. France’s €800m attack (MbappĂ©, DembĂ©lĂ©, Olise) faces a Senegal side looking to replicate their historic 2002 run.
## Looking Ahead
– **England vs Croatia** — Wednesday (June 17)
– **Cape Verde vs Uruguay** — Sunday, June 21
– **Group stage runs through June 27**
European giants like England, France, and Argentina still have everything to play for. With only 16 teams eliminated after the group stage, there’s plenty of room for recovery — but the early upsets suggest anything can happen at this World Cup.
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## FAQ
### Is the 48-team format causing more draws?
Yes. With 16 of 48 teams making the Round of 32, teams know that three draws (3 points) gives them an excellent chance of advancing — roughly 87.5% with a -1 goal difference. This encourages more cautious play.
### Who has been the biggest surprise so far?
Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw against Spain is the standout result. They’re the first League of Ireland player to feature in a World Cup — a fairy tale story that has captured global attention.
### When does England play?
England face Croatia on Wednesday, June 17 at 21:00 BST.
### Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?
Matches are broadcast on Fox Sports (US), BBC/ITV (UK), and various local broadcasters. Check your local listings.
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