LOS ANGELES: The fight for a place in the final 32 of the Football World Cup has intensified, with key Saturday fixtures featuring Germany vs Ivory Coast and Sweden vs Netherlands expected to shape the knockout lineup.

In Group E, Germany opened their campaign with a dominant 7-1 win over debutants Curaçao and will secure early qualification if they defeat Ivory Coast and Ecuador fail to win their match. However, coach staff have warned against the pace and physical strength of Ivory Coast, with winger Nicolas Pépé identified as a major threat.

In the same group, Ivory Coast can still progress if they defeat Germany and other results go their way.

In another crucial fixture, Sweden face the Netherlands knowing a win would confirm their place in the knockout stage. Sweden have impressed so far in the tournament, with coach Graham Potter praising striker Alexander Isak, who has scored one goal and provided two assists.

Elsewhere, Japan will face Tunisia in a landmark 1,000th World Cup match, marking a historic moment in the group stage.

Earlier on Friday, co-host United States defeated Australia 2-0 to top Group D and secure a place in the last 32. Brazil strengthened their position in Group C with a 3-0 win over Haiti, while Morocco earned their first victory by beating Scotland 1-0.