Plenty of City interest in today's World Cup fixtures and encouraging quotes from Blues' maestro David Silva.

Let’s begin with Silva’s Spain, who will look to get back on track against Iran this evening having drawn their opening game with Portugal.

A win for the Iranians, who currently top Group B, would secure a place in the knock-out stages having already beaten Morocco in the first round of matches.

Silva, an integral member of La Roja’s side, says he feels fitter than ever and has no plans to retire from international football.

He told Marca: “Of course, I’m older, but I don’t have an expiry date. I’m not thinking about retirement and for as long as I feel this way I will continue to be available for selection.

“I’ve always been mentally strong, otherwise I wouldn’t have been around this long, when I feel that I’m not contributing I’ll raise my hand and say so.

“I’ve always put in a big physical effort, I’m playing more centrally now. I have been evolving, Pep has put me in the middle and I’m more involved in matches.

“I think I’m a better footballer now for all of my experience. You gain know-how from playing matches because every moment of a football match has its own rhythm.

“I prefer the David Silva of 2018 because he’s experienced a lot of top level football.”

 

CLOSE CONTROL: Bernardo Silva in action against Spain
CLOSE CONTROL: Bernardo Silva in action against Spain

 

Prior to that game, Bernardo Silva should feature for Portugal against Morocco in Group B’s other game.

After the thrilling 3-3 draw with Spain, the Portuguese will look to secure the three points that will edge them closer to the next stage.

Tuesday’s games saw Senegal and Japan record impressive wins in their opening group games.

The Senegalese beat Poland 2-1 while Japan saw off Colombia by the same scoreline. 

Hosts Russia have all-but qualified for the next phase after a 3-1 win over Egypt.

The Russians have now bagged eight goals in two games, despite largely being written off as rank outsiders to win the tournament by many pundits and journalists.

Though more sterner tests lie ahead for Stanislav Cherchesov’s side, Russia have momentum and growing belief that they can enjoy their best World Cup yet.

Finally, England’s 2-1 win over Tunisia was watched by a staggering 18.3million people in the UK as World Cup fever grips the nation - and that figure is likely to be even higher for the clash with Belgium a week tomorrow.

Tuesday’s results:

Colombia 1 Japan 2

Poland 1 Senegal 2

Russia 3 Egypt 1

Wednesday’s fixtures:

1pm Portugal v Morocco BBC

4pm Uruguay v Saudi Arabia BBC

7pm Spain v Iran ITV