Football fans were treated to a dream day of action as three of the world’s premier attackers delivered standout performances in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland each netted two goals, lighting up their respective matches and igniting the Golden Boot race.
Argentina’s Messi opened the scoring spectacle with a brace in a 2-0 victory over Austria in Dallas. The veteran captain, still defying age at nearly 39, continued his record-breaking tournament form, further cementing his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game. His goals helped secure an early knockout-stage berth for the defending champions.
Hours later, France’s Mbappe grabbed a brace as Les Bleus defeated Iraq 3-0. The explosive forward, now France’s all-time leading scorer, displayed clinical finishing and pace that left defenders trailing, powering his side toward the round of 16.
Star-studded day at 2026 World Cup: Messi, Mbappe, and Haaland each score braces
Norway’s Haaland matched the feat with two goals in his team’s dominant 4-1 win over Iraq. On his World Cup debut earlier and building on strong form, the Manchester City striker announced himself on the global stage, becoming the first Norwegian to score a brace in the tournament’s history and showcasing his trademark power and positioning.
The trio’s simultaneous brilliance has fans buzzing about an epic battle for the Golden Boot. Messi’s enduring excellence against younger stars, Mbappe’s prime dominance, and Haaland’s raw goal-scoring threat have defined an unforgettable day of World Cup football.
With the group stage heating up, this historic matchday 6 has set a high bar. All eyes now turn to how these superstars and their rivals will perform as the tournament progresses toward the knockout rounds.
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