It was heartbreak break for Africa yesterday as Senegal, who were the continents last hope in Russia, became the first team in the history of the tournament to get knocked out in the group stage, with the new and somewhat debatable fair play rule.

This led to Japan secure their place in the next round.

The knock games start tomorrow afternoon already and it will be France taking on the two-time champions, Argentina at 16:00 in Kazan.

At 20:00 tomorrow evening Uruguay will be up against Portugal in Sochi.

On Sunday afternoon at 16:00 the hosts Russia will be in action against the winners of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, namely Spain, in Moscow.

The weekend’s action will be capped off at 20:00 on Sunday evening at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium where Croatia will square off against Denmark.

On Monday at 16:00 the five-time champions, Brazil, take on Mexico who beat Germany and ultimately lead to the defending champions being knocked out.

Belgium, who are considered to be among the favourites, face Japan at 20:00 in Rostov-on-Don.

While everyone has high hopes for the Red Devils, there coach, Roberto Martinez, has warned that they cannot afford to look part the game against the team from the Land of the Rising Sun.

On Tuesday afternoon a cracking game is expected with Sweden lock-horns with Switzerland at 16:00.

At 20:00 the English defence will be put to the test, when they face Colombia who have proven to be a handful.

The English coach, Gareth Southgate expects a cracking match against Colombia and remains upbeat about their chances.

For the latest updates on the 2018 FIFA World Cup visit ofm.co.za and follow @OFMSport on Twitter.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport