Who is winning the World Cup so far?

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Emma Paton and guests Mark Critchley and Keris Jones dive into the action of the World Cup, where the tournament has already surpassed the 100-goal mark. They discuss the early standout performances from teams and players, particularly noting the captivating debut of Cape Verde, who have managed to draw both Spain and Uruguay. The conversation shifts to Spain's resurgence, particularly after their impressive 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, showcasing young star Laminya Mal or 'Yamal' whose energy and talent have been pivotal for the team.

The panel also evaluates other contenders including France, Argentina, Germany, and Japan, discussing potential weaknesses and strengths as the group stage progresses. They highlight the importance of tactical alterations and the impact of key players like Mo Salah, who scored for Egypt in their historic first World Cup win against New Zealand. The discussion wraps up with reflections on England's and various goalkeepers' performances throughout the tournament, while also teasing upcoming matches and promising World Cup coverage from The Athletic.