World Cup roundup: Messi, Mbappe and Haaland lead their nations to opening wins
By Joel Masibo, June 17, 2026Reigning world champions Argentina began their FIFA World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, defeating Algeria 3-0 thanks to a memorable hat-trick from Lionel Messi. Elsewhere, France and Norway also opened their tournaments with victories, powered by standout displays from Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Playing at Kansas City Stadium in their Group J opener, Argentina took control early when Messi found the net from distance after just 17 minutes. The veteran forward doubled his tally midway through the second half before completing a superb treble in the 76th minute.
The three-goal performance marked Messi’s first hat-trick in a World Cup finals tournament and took his overall World Cup goal count to 16, matching the record held by former Germany striker Miroslav Klose. Argentina comfortably secured all three points with the win.
In the same group, Austria enjoyed a successful start by overcoming Jordan 3-1.
Group I saw France launch their quest for another world title with a 3-1 victory against Senegal. Mbappe was the star of the show, scoring twice to help Les Bleus claim maximum points.
His brace also carried historical significance, as it moved him beyond Olivier Giroud’s previous national-team scoring record of 57 goals, making Mbappe France’s highest-ever goalscorer.
Norway, appearing at the World Cup for the first time in nearly three decades, marked its return with an impressive 4-1 triumph over Iraq.
Making his World Cup debut, Haaland struck twice, scoring before and after Iraq’s temporary equalizer from Aymen Hussein in the opening half. Leo Ostigard added another goal for the Norwegians, while a late own goal from Hussein completed the scoring and ensured a convincing victory.
The tournament continues on Wednesday with Group K fixtures featuring Portugal against DR Congo and Uzbekistan versus Colombia. In Group L, England will face Croatia, while Ghana takes on Panama.