The FIFA World Cup 2026 witnessed a memorable day of football as Argentina, France, and Norway began their campaigns with convincing victories. The biggest story came from Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, where Lionel Messi delivered a historic performance, scoring a sensational hat-trick in a 3-0 victory at Kansas City.

The 38-year-old Argentine captain once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest players. Making his record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, Messi scored all three goals as the defending champions launched their title defense in style. His remarkable display also saw him equal the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record with 16 goals, matching Germany legend Miroslav Klose.

Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute and was visibly emotional after finding the net. The Argentine superstar broke down in tears while celebrating, highlighting the significance of the moment in what could be his final World Cup campaign.

Messi Creates History

The match began dramatically, with two goals ruled out for offside within the opening 10 minutes. Messi had an early strike disallowed before Algeria’s Fares Chaibi also saw his effort overturned.

Messi eventually broke the deadlock before taking complete control in the second half. His second goal came in the 60th minute after capitalizing on a rebound from a saved effort by Alexis Mac Allister. He then completed his first-ever World Cup hat-trick with a trademark curling finish from outside the penalty area.

The performance helped Messi achieve several milestones. Alongside becoming the joint-highest scorer in World Cup history, he also became only the second footballer after Cristiano Ronaldo to score in five different World Cup editions. The match also marked his 200th appearance for Argentina national football team.

Mbappé and Haaland Shine

Earlier in the day, Kylian Mbappé inspired France national football team to a 3-1 victory over Senegal. After a quiet first half, Mbappé scored twice in the second period, including a stunning strike in stoppage time.

His second goal carried added significance as it made him France’s all-time leading goalscorer with 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud. The match also featured controversy when France were denied a penalty despite a VAR review, but Mbappé’s brilliance ensured the decision did not affect the result.

For Senegal, Ibrahim Mbaye etched his name into history by becoming the youngest African player to score in a FIFA World Cup match.

Meanwhile, Erling Haaland enjoyed a dream World Cup debut as Norway national football team defeated Iraq 4-1. The Manchester City forward scored twice in the first half and was named Player of the Match.

The victory was particularly significant for Norway, which returned to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998. Supported by captain Martin Ødegaard, Norway produced one of the most impressive performances of the opening round.

With Messi rewriting history, Mbappé breaking national records, and Haaland making an instant impact, the FIFA World Cup 2026 has already delivered unforgettable moments and set the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.