The opening round of matches has already delivered its first major lessons. France, Argentina and Norway all began their World Cup campaigns with victories, but each did so in very different fashion. Between Senegal’s resistance, Lionel Messi’s masterclass and Norway’s physical dominance, the tournament favorites have already made their intentions clear.
On the first full day of the 2026 World Cup, football’s biggest stars did not disappoint. Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland all found the back of the net, reinforcing the feeling that this tournament could become a showcase for elite forwards. Yet behind the scorelines, the stories were far from identical.
France Survive Senegal’s Pressure Before Pulling Away
Didier Deschamps’ side had to work much harder than expected against a determined Senegal team. For more than an hour, the Lions of Teranga unsettled the World Cup runners-up with their aggressive pressing and the inspired goalkeeping of Edouard Mendy.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 66th minute when Michael Olise delivered a perfect pass for Kylian Mbappé, who made no mistake. Bradley Barcola doubled the lead before Mbaye briefly revived Senegalese hopes deep into stoppage time. But Mbappé immediately restored France’s two-goal advantage with a stunning long-range strike, sealing a 3-1 victory.
The French captain also made history. His brace took him to 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud to become France’s all-time leading scorer.
Messi Rolls Back the Years as Argentina Cruise Past Algeria
Argentina arguably produced the most convincing display of the day. The reigning world champions overwhelmed Algeria with technical superiority and composure, rarely looking troubled throughout the contest.
After an early goal was ruled out for offside, Lionel Messi opened the scoring with a powerful effort before capitalizing on a rebound from Luca Zidane to score his second. The Argentine icon completed his hat-trick with another clinical finish, wrapping up a comfortable 3-0 victory.
At 39, Messi became the first player in history to appear in six World Cups. His three goals also brought him level with Miroslav Klose as the competition’s all-time leading scorer, adding yet another chapter to an already legendary career.
Norway’s Power Display Puts France Under Pressure
A few hours after France’s victory, Norway answered emphatically. Against an adventurous but vulnerable Iraqi side, the Scandinavians showcased the physical strength and efficiency that have made them one of Europe’s rising forces.
Erling Haaland struck twice, including one goal gifted by a costly mistake from Iraqi goalkeeper Hassan. Leo Østigard and Kristian Thorstvedt added late goals to secure a convincing 4-1 victory.
The result sends Norway to the top of Group I ahead of France on goal difference. Behind Haaland, Martin Ødegaard once again orchestrated the game with intelligence and precision, highlighting the maturity of a Norwegian generation that is no longer content with merely participating.
Three Wins, Three Statements
The opening day of the 2026 World Cup confirmed that the leading contenders are already up and running. France demonstrated resilience, Argentina displayed technical excellence and Norway underlined their physical superiority.
Above all, three men dominated the headlines: Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. Three different generations, three contrasting styles, but one common ability to decide matches almost single-handedly.
As Messi continues to write the final pages of an extraordinary career, Mbappé and Haaland are carrying on their own rivalry, one that could define the next decade of world football.
The tournament is only just beginning, but the favorites have already delivered a message to the rest of the world: they have arrived, and they mean business.
