Messi's record streak fuels Argentina's World Cup surge

Lionel Messi, who entered the Argentina‑Jordan group match from the bench, scored a low free‑kick to complete a 3‑1 victory, becoming the first player ever to find the net in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup games and moving his tournament tally to six goals, the competition’s top scorer. Argentina built a 2‑0 advantage before the break through Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martínez. Jordan reduced the deficit when Musa Tamari scored, but the Argentine side held on to secure the win. Messi, the multiple Ballon d’Or winner, now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His free‑kick marked his sixth goal of the tournament, confirming him as the competition’s leading scorer. A post on Twitter highlighted the achievement, reading: “Lionel Messi becomes the first player to score in seven consecutive #FIFAWorldCup games 🌟”. The tweet was accompanied by an image of the Argentine forward celebrating.

At 74, Broos faces his final World Cup test against Canada

Belgium’s national team, the Rode Duivels, must maintain their country’s honour at the tournament, while former international Hugo Broos leads South Africa, which has reached the next round for the first time. Broos normally steps down after a World Cup, but his future remains uncertain. Striker Romelu Lukaku is noted for his insistence on starting, playing the full ninety minutes and influencing the game from the first whistle. His reputation for durability makes him a central figure in Belgium’s attacking plans.

Messi leads World Cup 2026 golden boot race as rivals close in

The Congo‑Uzbekistan encounter was pivotal for Belgium; a Leopards victory would have propelled Belgium into the round of 16 to face Senegal, according to the tournament scenarios after Croatia’s result. A win for the Leopards would have altered Belgium’s knockout path, emphasizing the stakes of the group stage. Readers are invited to subscribe to the Voetbalkrant newsletter to stay updated on daily World Cup developments. The newsletter promises daily updates on squad selections and match analyses.