Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland continued their remarkable World Cup exploits with each superstar producing a brace in another thrilling chapter of football’s grandest stage.
Messi struck first, making history with two goals in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria to become the leading scorer in World Cup history. Hours later, Mbappe answered with a double of his own as France defeated Iraq in a weather-delayed contest, before Haaland joined the party by scoring twice in Norway’s 3-2 win over Senegal to secure his country’s place in the round of 32.
The sequence of performances has added fresh intrigue to the tournament, with each member of football’s new and old guard seemingly responding to the achievements of the others. England captain Harry Kane will have the opportunity to enter the conversation when the Three Lions face Ghana on Tuesday, having already netted twice in their opening match.
Messi’s latest feat is all the more remarkable considering he once believed his international career had come to an end. Following Argentina’s defeat in the 2016 Copa America final, the Argentine icon declared his retirement, saying: “For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all I can. It hurts not to be a champion.”
Ten years later, just days before his 39th birthday, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has completed one of football’s greatest redemption stories. His decision to reverse that retirement has ushered in a golden era for Argentina and elevated him to the summit of World Cup goalscoring.
Messi’s brace against Austria took his tally to 18 goals in 28 World Cup appearances, with 13 of those strikes coming after his return from international retirement. Argentina have already secured a place in the knockout phase, and with Jordan next on the schedule, the legendary forward appears poised to extend his record even further.
Age has done little to diminish his brilliance. Remarkably, 12 of his 18 World Cup goals have come since turning 35. Fourteen have been scored with his famed left foot, while four have come from outside the penalty area. He has also been responsible for all five of Argentina’s goals at this tournament, making him the leading scorer by a margin of two goals.Against Austria, Messi joined an elite club by becoming only the third player to score in six consecutive World Cup matches, matching the achievements of France’s Just Fontaine in 1958 and Brazil’s Jairzinho in 1970. His efficiency was equally impressive, converting both of his chances on target.
Beyond his goalscoring exploits, Messi has established himself as the tournament’s greatest creator, producing 76 chances across his World Cup career. In his last six matches at the competition, he has directly contributed to 12 goals, scoring 10 times and providing two assists.
While Mbappe and Haaland continue to chase history with breathtaking displays of their own, the veteran Argentine remains the benchmark.
What should fans look forward to?
