One of the most significant games of the opening set of group matches sees the Netherlands, ranked eighth in the world, take on the champions of Africa. Senegal is ranked only ten places below the Oranje in the FIFA Rankings. Their all-time top goalscorer, Sadio Mané, won’t be causing problems for his former Liverpool teammate, Virgil van Dijk, as the Bayern Munich forward is likely to miss the Group Stage through injury. Roma loanee Georginio Wijnaldum has been ruled out of the tournament for the Netherlands.

The Dutch come into the World Cup having won their Nations League group with five victories and a draw — including home and away wins against neighbours Belgium. The Lions of Teranga’s recent outings saw them beat Bolivia and draw with Iran. A first meeting between these two teams and it’s likely to be the biggest test of the Group Stage for the Dutch as they begin their quest for that elusive first world title.