Haaland double powers Norway to World Cup win over Iraq

Lionel Messi began his record-equalling sixth World Cup campaign with a spectacular hat-trick, leading holders Argentina to a dominant 3-0 victory over Algeria. The dazzling performance at Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium saw Messi join Miroslav Klose atop the all-time World Cup scorers list with 16 goals.

Messi, playing in his 200th international appearance, also made history by becoming the first male player to participate in six World Cups. He opened his scoring account in the 17th minute with a curling strike, bringing his tally to 14. He then moved to 15 goals in the 60th minute, pouncing on a rebound, before equalling Klose's record of 16 goals in the 76th minute with a low finish from the edge of the area.

The match marked a triumphant start for Argentina's bid to win back-to-back titles. Messi's performance was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the 69,045-strong crowd.

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There are still people out there who will criticise him, but he is an extraordinary player. Not everything came off for him, but he can win games in one moment.

Meanwhile, France's Kylian Mbappe also made his mark in the tournament, scoring twice in their 3-1 win over Senegal. Mbappe's brace not only secured victory for France but also saw him surpass Olivier Giroud to become France's all-time leading goalscorer with 58 goals in 99 appearances.

France's coach Didier Deschamps praised Mbappe's performance, acknowledging his ability to win games single-handedly, despite not everything coming off perfectly. The parallel successes of Messi and Mbappe highlight the potent attacking talent on display in the early stages of the tournament.

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I am really pleased for him. He didn’t score in the warm-up friendly games, but to break the record at the World Cup gives it more impact.