All four WC matches end in draws, repeating 68-year-old record

A rare piece of FIFA World Cup history was repeated on 15 June as all four matches played on the day ended in draws, marking only the second such occurrence in the tournament’s history.

According to The Athletic, the previous instance came on 15 June 1958, when four World Cup matches on the same day also finished level. Remarkably, the latest instance occurred on the exact same date, 68 years later.

One of the most notable fixtures saw tournament favourites Spain held to a goalless draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde. The island nation produced a disciplined defensive display and successfully prevented the star-studded Spanish side from finding the net.

Elsewhere, Egypt took an early lead against Belgium after just 20 minutes but were denied victory by an own goal in the 66th minute, with the match ending 1-1.

Saudi Arabia also earned a 1-1 draw against former world champions Uruguay. The Saudis opened the scoring in the 41st minute before Maximiliano Araujo equalised in the 80th minute to rescue a point for Uruguay.

In another entertaining contest, Iran twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand. Despite being ranked 65 places above their opponents, the Iranians were forced to battle back on both occasions.

The four draws ensured a place in World Cup history, matching a record that had stood since 1958.