There have perhaps been a few culture shocks for some of the World Cup’s competing players on arriving in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but big Dan Burn certainly seems to be enjoying himself.

Marcus Rashford says England have to “fight for each other” in the same way as players fight for club teammates, as Thomas Tuchel tries to create a brotherhood spirit within the camp.

Rashford, who has been on loan at Barcelona this season, is in competition with Anthony Gordon - who has recently been unveiled as a new Barca signing - for a place in the England starting line-up.

Richard Jolly profiled the great Argentine after his hat-trick in the opener against Algeria. Will there be more goals against Austria today?

Lionel Messi will be back in action for Argentina later looking to move clear of Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading men’s World Cup goalscorer. A remarkable footballer still going strong at 38.

Why not? The Independent’s World Cup podcast has ramped up as the tournament intensifies, with episodes out more often than usual. You can find them in all the usual podcast emporiums – or right here:

With a couple of contenders in action a little later, it feels an apt time to look at our World Cup power rankings as we assess the top 10 nations in North America.

There’s been a certain juxtaposition at the heart of this World Cup, which is as inclusive as ever even while occurring in a nation divided. Miguel Delaney explains:

Iran’s national football team left a message of gratitude in their SoFi Stadium locker room on Sunday, thanking Los Angeles for its hospitality during the World Cup.

The gesture followed a 0-0 draw with Belgium, a result that keeps their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

Los Angeles has served as the host city for both of Iran's Group G matches so far.

Ever wondered what it is like to cover a World Cup? Lawrence Ostlere’s entertaining diary of his two weeks at the tournament is an illuminating insight.