Another day at World Cup is in the books. We are at the point in the tournament where games get very interesting. Just today we have seen countries qualify for the knockout rounds and watched others get eliminated. Here is a recap of Matchday 9:

Denmark 1-1 Australia

The early viewers did not have to wait long for the first goal of the day. Christian Eriksen got the day started with a picture perfect half volley to give Denmark a 1-0 lead in the 7th minute.

Later in the first half, Australia was awarded a penalty kick from VAR. After they converted the penalty, the score did not change for the rest of the match. Denmark will now just need a single point to clinch their spot in the knockout stage. On the other hand Australia will need all three points from their next match, to go along with some help from the group leaders France.

France 1-0 Peru

Despite playing some beautiful soccer at times, fan favorites, Peru are now officially eliminated from the World Cup. The Peruvians have had two solid performances so far but have lacked quality in the final third. Teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe scored the only goal from France coming from a rebound. The play was initially set up by a beautiful pass from midfielder Paul Pogba. No surprise that France has already clinched a spot in the knockout rounds. With all of their talent and reputation Le Bleus are looking like a team to be scared of.

Croatia 3-0 Argentina

So everyone predicted Argentina to be this close to elimination in the group stages right? Oh just me? Wait, I didn’t either? Ok, yeah not many people saw this coming.

Croatia, a common pick for the tournament dark horse, has now taken a commanding lead in Group D. Argentina effectively fell apart in this match, after a blunder from goalkeeper WIlly Caballero that put them in a 1-0 hole there was no way back for them. The real dream crusher came late in the match when Luka Modric curled in a long range effort. Great timing and execution for his second goal in as many World Cup matches.

The Croatians weren’t finished yet. They took advantage of Argentina desperately throwing numbers forward with a beautiful counter attack finished off by Ivan Rakitic. The Argentines will now be eagerly awaiting the Iceland and Nigeria match tomorrow, to see what exactly they need to do to qualify.

Who is the bigger threat to win the tournament France or Croatia? Do you still give Argentina a chance to qualify? Let us know in the comments.