Pre-World Cup friendly results: Messi & Argentina dazzle as Germany toil to victory over Oman

Managers have named their 26-man World Cup squads, but starting line-ups and final tactical tweaks are still being decided this week based on last impressions.

Performances in warm-up matches are crucial for players on the cusp of starting roles, while coaches are hoping to gain positive momentum entering the tournament.

GOAL recaps the biggest friendly matches before the World Cup…

Wednesday, November 16

Saudi Arabia 0-1 Croatia

Andrej Kramaric netted an 82nd-minute winner in a battle of teams both headed to the World Cup.

UAE 0-5 Argentina

Lionel Messi scored a fabulous goal with his right foot, capping a great team move, and Argentina continued to look like a powerful attacking force.

Oman 0-1 Germany

Hansi Flick’s men barely edged Oman with an 80th-minute goal from Niclas Fullkrug.

Poland 1-0 Chile

Another late goal on an entertaining Wednesday of friendly action as Krzysztof Piatek broke the deadlock in the 85th minute. Poland won despite having just 26 per cent of possession.

Mexico 1-2 Sweden

Are Mexico heading for World Cup trouble? It certainly looks as though they might be followinga surprising defeat to Sweden.

Related Post
Share
Published by

Recent Posts

Aakash Chopra opens up on SunRisers Hyderabad’s requirements in IPL 2026 auction

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has shed light on Sunrisers Hyderabad’s requirements in IPL… Read More

November 21, 2025

Robin Uthappa defends Gautam Gambhir amid criticism after defeat in IND vs SA 2025 1st Test

Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa has put his weight behind Gautam Gambhir amid criticism after… Read More

November 21, 2025

Anil Kumble says Sanju Samson will keep wickets for CSK in IPL 2026

Former Indian captain Anil Kumble has opined that Sanju Samson will take the wicket-keeping gloves… Read More

November 20, 2025

Aakash Chopra reveals SRH’s auction plan after release deadline

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra reckons Sunrisers Hyderabad must target an overseas fast bowler… Read More

November 20, 2025

Mohammad Kaif picks Shreyas Iyer’s replacement for IND vs SA 2025 ODIs

Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has picked Dhruv Jurel to replace Shreyas Iyer in the… Read More

November 19, 2025

Aakash Chopra reveals SRH’s auction plan after release deadline

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra reckons Sunrisers Hyderabad must target an overseas fast bowler… Read More

November 19, 2025