Over the next month, I'll be covering the World Cup for Tribalfootball. And along the way, I'd like to share with you some of my experiences and keep you up to date with all the action!
Front row seats
I couldn't believe my luck when I arrived at my seat for Belgium vs. Tunisia on Saturday. There are only so many seats with desks for the scores of press at the World Cup, especially in Moscow where the majority of journalists are based.
Initially I was disappointed when I found out I'd be desk-less. But that quickly changed when I entered the Spartak Stadium. Located one row behind the Belgian bench, I was close enough to throw a chewing gum wrapper into Marouane Fellaini's afro.
Belgium were beautiful to watch and they should go far in the competition, especially when Vincent Kompany returns. After England's big win yesterday, Thursday's clash in Kaliningrad should be a good indicator on where both teams are at defensively.
Gettin' around - Part Two
One of the most startling things about the Moscow Metro are the stations themselves.
Every station has its own unique quirks. There are zero advertisements or billboards. Walls are instead covered with detailed murals and paintings, dozens of chandeliers light up the hallways, and statues and monuments are prominent throughout.
And for football fans in transit, you'll never miss a minute of the World Cup because there are T.V's located on the trains. Take note Melbourne Metro, if people could watch the footy on the train there'd be a lot less traffic on the roads.
Double time
Matchday three begins today, which means four matches will be played in a day with two matches played at the same time. This creates an exciting atmosphere for the groups where the last-16 spots are still up for grabs.
Today we've got Russia vs. Uruguay and Saudi Arabia vs. Egypt in the 5pm slot. Both Russia and Uruguay are guaranteed to play in the last-16, but the former needs only a draw to finish top of Group A, a remarkable feat given their pre-tournament expectations.
The other two games we have today are Portugal vs. Iran and Spain vs. Morocco at 9pm. Portugal and Spain should advance, bar an unbelievable upset from Iran, who would have to beat Portugal and hope Morocco can do them a favour against Spain.
