World Cup Daily: Iran prove a point, Saudis shock and Maguire reveals World Cup snub

As we head into the last three groups' opening fixtures, DAZN News rounds up the biggest stories from the World Cup on Tuesday, June 16.   

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Iran rise above political power 

One of the clouds hanging over this World Cup is the current political climate the US finds itself in, especially over President Trump's dealings with Iran. 

The nation's football team haven't been allowed to set up base in the States, with them having to stay in Mexico and fly into games. 

It meant a politically charged atmosphere for their opener against New Zealand, where they twice fought back to earn a 2-2 draw - an almost poignant message to the powers that be that they will continue to fight for the cause. 

However, goalscorer Mohammad Mohebi's apparent 'gun gesture' during his celebration would have done nothing to calm the tension around the country. 

(C)Getty images

Saudi at it again

Four years ago, Saudi Arabia caused the shock of the tournament when they beat eventual winners Argentina in the opening group phase game, and they were at it again on Monday. 

It wasn't quite in the same league as their victory over Messi and co, but it was still an eyebrow raiser to seem the take the lead and hang on to a point against Uruguay. 

It leaves Group H wide open with all four teams on one point following Cape Verde's amazing performance in their 0-0 draw with Spain. 

As for Uruguay, much work is to be done, who even hauled off Darwin Nunez at half-time after a tepid first period for the former Liverpool man. 

Getty

Maguire lifts the lid 

One man who's not at the World Cup is Manchester United's Harry Maguire, who was left out of the England squad for the finals by Thomas Tuchel.

The defender has made an appearance in the States, however, speaking on Gary Lineker's Rest Is Football about his tournament snub, and revealing just how he found out the news. 

"He FaceTimed everyone," said Maguire. "It was quite an awkward call.

"I received a text saying, ' Can I speak to you about 4pm?' It is quite a unique way of doing it, and it must be quite hard because he can see everyone's reactions.

"He said he can't give me an excuse, but he had gone with the four lads who got him through the autumn.

"It was tough to take. I did think I would be in the squad after being selected for the March camp under him for the first time. I did really well in both games and then went back to Manchester United and
finished the season really strongly."

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