Opening Fireworks in the 2026 World Cup
Argentina opened the tournament with a dazzling display as Lionel Messi scored a hat‑trick against Algeria, a performance that tied him for the all‑time World Cup goal‑scoring lead with 16 goals.
France’s Kylian Mbappé answered with two goals in a 2‑0 win over Senegal, a result that saw him eclipse Pelé’s historic World Cup tally and cement his place among the tournament’s all‑time greats.
Norway’s Erling Haaland also found the net twice in a comfortable victory against Iraq, adding to the early excitement and raising expectations for his impact throughout the competition.
A Scoring Surge in the Early Rounds
The schedule also features a much‑anticipated clash between England’s Harry Kane and Croatia’s Luka Modrić in a Group L match, while Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo is set to lead his side against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the group stage.
These opening encounters have already produced a flurry of goals, suggesting that the 2026 edition could rewrite the scoring narratives that have defined previous tournaments and set the stage for a thrilling battle for the Golden Boot.