Groups E and F take centre stage in Qatar today, with four of Europe's heavy hitters facing potential elimination from the World Cup.
Four-time winners Germany tackle Costa Rica in their final Group E game, knowing that their tournament faith is out of their hands.
They'll be very much fancied to get the three points they require, but coach Hansi Flick said: "I’m normally an optimist – I’m not considering anything like that for now.".
Their opponents, still licking the wounds of a seven-goal drubbing by Spain, also have aspirations of qualification to the last 16.
History is set to be made on Thursday! ?
There will be an all-female refereeing trio taking charge for the first time at a men's #FIFAWorldCup in the match between Costa Rica and Germany.
Referee Stéphanie Frappart will be joined by assistants Neuza Back and Karen Diaz. ? pic.twitter.com/fgHfh2DICK
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 30, 2022
There will be a historic first in this game when France’s Stephanie Frappart becomes the first woman to referee a match at the men’s World Cup.
The 38-year-old will oversee the clash at the Al Bayt Stadium as part of an all-female on-field officiating team.
"I'll be focused on the pitch because we need to make the correct decisions," she said speaking beforehand.
"We need to perform well by focusing on the primary objective that is on the pitch."
Spain’s task is more straightforward. Win and they're successfully through.
They'll need to be cautious though, as Japan are just a point behind them and have already knocked the Germans from their perch.
Coach Luis Enrique is not taking anything for granted and said: “Some of the 26 may end up not playing at all, we all know how it works. Any of the four nations can still go through and that is very telling.”
Both games get underway at 7 pm.
Group F has three sides vying for qualification.
Croatia and Belgium do battle with the Belgians needing all three points to progress.
A draw will only be good enough for Roberto Martinez's side if Canada can beat Morocco in the group's other game.
Speaking before the fixture, Martinez said: "Some outlets in Belgium are quite happy to jump on fake news.
"There is more desire to find negative news around this team rather than get this nation together, support this team and enjoy the talent of the best generation that we have ever had in Belgian football."
Kevin De Bruyne said Belgium have 'no chance' to win the World Cup ? pic.twitter.com/CAmQQHALum
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 26, 2022
Meanwhile, a draw will be enough for Morocco as they take on already-eliminated Canada.
The African side saw off the Belgians in their previous outing and were extremely impressive in doing so.
Hopes are high within the camp and all eyes will be on both 3 pm fixtures.
Morocco’s win against Belgium is their third victory ever in a World Cup. ?? ?
Top of Group F. pic.twitter.com/QLWflj1Y2n
— Muslim (@Muslim) November 27, 2022
