Iraq Still Have Chance to Go Through After France Loss, Arnold Says

Lionel Messi stands on the brink of rewriting World Cup history, requiring just one more goal to surpass Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16. The Argentine superstar achieved this milestone by scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. Messi, who celebrated his 39th birthday on Wednesday, appeared emotional after his first goal, with reports indicating his father is recovering from an undisclosed health issue. Despite personal challenges and a recent hamstring injury, Messi's presence continues to galvanize his teammates.

“

If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all.

"If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all," stated midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, underscoring Messi's pivotal role. Argentina is poised to advance to the next round with another win, and could secure the top spot in Group J if Jordan fails to defeat Algeria in their upcoming match.

Meanwhile, French forward Kylian Mbappe is preparing for his 100th appearance for France in their match against Iraq. Mbappe, currently tied with Gerd Mueller on 14 World Cup goals, expressed his excitement for the milestone game. "There is nothing bigger -- one hundred is a historic figure, and to have the chance to reach that tally here at a World Cup means it will be a special match for me," he told reporters. France, the 2022 finalists, are expected to secure their passage to the knockout stages by defeating Iraq.

“

There is nothing bigger -- one hundred is a historic figure, and to have the chance to reach that tally here at a World Cup means it will be a special match for me.

In other tournament action, Spain rebounded from an initial 0-0 draw with Cape Verde by thrashing Saudi Arabia 4-0. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal opened the scoring, followed by goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and an own goal by Hassan al-Tambakti. Coach Luis De la Fuente credited the team's performance to their response to criticism, stating, "When someone questions your work, it is only human that anyone with courage and pride reacts to prove people wrong." Debutants Cape Verde continued their impressive run with a 2-2 draw against Uruguay, with coach Bubista expressing ambitions for a knockout stage appearance.

“

When someone questions your work, it is only human that anyone with courage and pride reacts to prove people wrong.