Russia vs Saudi Arabia in World Cup opener

Group A looks relatively easy with host Russia and Uruguay favourites to progress. Defending champion Germany was pitted alongside Mexico, Sweden and Korea Republic in Group G. Iberian neighbours Portugal and Spain were drawn together with Iran and Morocco in Group B. 

World Cup underachievers England found it grouped with Belgium, Tunisia and Panama. Group E consists of five-time champion Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia. Japan, Colombia, Senegal and Poland complete Group H. The general consensus was six of the eight groups were balanced while Group A and H are relatively weaker. 

Group A: Russia, Uruguay, Egypt and Saudi Arabia 

Group B: Portugal, Spain, Iran and Morocco

Group C: France, Peru, Denmark and Australia

Group D: Argentina, Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria 

Group E: Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia 

Group F: Germany, Mexico, Sweden and Korea Republic

Group G: Belgium, England, Tunisia and Panama 

Group H: Poland, Colombia, Senegal and Japan