Real Madrid Players at the FIFA World Cup: Thursday Round Up

With round three of the group stage games at this summer's FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico now more than underway, we take a look at the latest updates and permutations for the Real Madrid players involved at the tournament. 

To begin, Antonio Rudiger made his first start of the tournament for Germany, as they faced Ecuador, after a World Cup ending injury suffered by Real Madrid target Nico Schlotterbeck - an injury that has put a potential move to the Spanish capital in real jeopardy. 

It would be the dream start for the Germans, taking the lead within the first three minutes. However, just before the ten minute mark, Ecuador equalised with a superb strike from long range. 

Then, with 13 minutes left, the South Americans took the lead, having stabbed home a flick on from a corner at the near post. Despite the defeat, Germany top their group with six points, finishing above Ivory Coast on head to head ruling (and also goal difference). 

Next up for the four time World Champions is still yet to be confirmed, but it will be against a side who finished third place in their group. We will keep you updated on that.

A few hours later, there was Group F action for Denzel Dumfries and the Netherlands, as they took on Tunisia in Kansas City. A win in this one would more or less secure their place as group winners. For a third straight time, the new Real Madrid right-back was named in the starting XI by manager Ronald Koeman, after two assists last time out.

Although it will not go down as an assist this time, he was at it again already early on this time round. Within the first five minutes, his dangerous low cross was converted into his own net by a Tunisian player. A few minutes later, the Dutch doubled their lead as they began to cruise through the game. 

In the end, the Netherlands would win the game very comfortably with a 3-1 victory. As a result, they will now play Brahim Diaz and Morocco in their round of 32 game, with that showdown set to take place on Tuesday at 03:00 CET. 

As for Dumfries, he once again played the full 90, as he continues to be an important part of this side. Good luck and go well in the knockouts.