World Cup Rewind: Recapping Matchday Two

With all the fixtures wrapped up for matchday two at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, here's a breakdown of all the action.

USA vs. Wales

The United States Men's National Team for the first time in eight years on Monday, battling Wales to a 1-1 draw. The Stars & Stripes dominated the first half, constantly forcing the Welsh into turnovers translating that pressure into chances. USA capitalized on their positive momentum in the 36th minute as Christian Pulisic slipped a through ball to Tim Weah, who conflidently pushed his shot past the onrushing goalkeeper. 

Wales made some adjustments at the break and largely controlled the second half. Gareth Bale pulled his side level in the 82nd minute when he smashed his penalty kick into the top corner. Both teams carved out some half chances in the closing stages but eventually settled for a draw. 

Jordan Morris and former Sounder DeAndre Yedlin entered the match as substitutes in the second half. It was a special moment for Seattle soccer fans as two former Sounders Academy players took the pitch representing the United States on the world's biggest stage. Fellow Sounder Cristian Roldan was available for selection on the matchday squad. 

The USMNT return to action on Friday when they take on England, who sit atop Group B after a resounding 6-2 win over Iran. Don't miss Sounders FC's official USMNT watch parties at the Armory at Seattle Center. You can find more information HERE.

Senegal vs. Netherlands

A 2-0 win over Senegal saw the Netherlands pull level with Ecuador atop the Group B standings after the first round of matches. Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock with a flicked header in the 84th minute before Davy Klaassen iced the match with an emphatic nine minutes into stoppage time.

England vs. Iran

The Three Lions took a commanding lead in Group B after the first round of fixtures with a dominant 6-2 victory over Iran. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 35th minute, with Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling pushing the score to 3-0 just before the halftime break. Iran managed to pull two goals back in the second half, but three more goals from Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jack Graelish secured three comfortable points for England.