Messi chases records as Tuchel's England face defensive questions at World Cup

Lionel Messi is on the verge of rewriting World Cup history, having matched Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16 goals with a hat-trick in Argentina's commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. The Argentine captain, who celebrates his 39th birthday this week, appeared emotional after his first goal, with reports emerging that his father is recovering from an undisclosed health issue. Despite personal challenges and a difficult build-up due to a hamstring injury, Messi's presence continues to galvanize his teammates.

Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister emphasized Messi's importance, stating, "If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all." Argentina can secure qualification for the next round with another win and will top Group J if Jordan fails to defeat Algeria.

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

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe is poised to play his 100th match for France in their upcoming game against Iraq. The French star is tied with Gerd Mueller at 14 World Cup goals after scoring twice in France's 3-1 opening win against Senegal. Mbappe expressed his excitement, calling the milestone "historic" and a "special match."

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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.

France, the runners-up in the 2022 final, are expected to comfortably defeat Iraq and advance to the knockout stages. Norway, led by Erling Haaland, also has a strong chance of progressing from Group I if they beat Senegal and France defeats Iraq.

In other matches, Spain rebounded from an earlier draw with a dominant 4-0 performance against Saudi Arabia. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal scored the opener, followed by two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and an own goal. Coach Luis De la Fuente noted that his team was motivated by recent criticism, stating, "When someone questions your work, it is only human that anyone with courage and pride reacts to prove people wrong."

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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 thrilling 2-2 draw against Uruguay, adding another point to their tally. Coach Bubista expressed his team's aspirations for the knockout rounds, a goal that seemed improbable before the tournament began.

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