Milanello Corner

  Lionel Messi continues to prove that he remains one of the best players in world football after producing a stunning hat-trick to inspire Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Not only did his goals secure all three points for La Albiceleste, but they also etched his name further into the tournament's history books.

  France started their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the best possible fashion after defeating Senegal 3-1. Les Bleus star forward Kylian Mbappe once again showcased his world-class quality by scoring a brace to lead his side to a valuable opening victory.

  Ivory Coast made a positive start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after edging past South American outfit Ecuador with a 1-0 victory. Manchester United starlet Amad Diallo emerged as the hero for Les Éléphants, scoring a dramatic late winner to earn his side a precious three points against La Tricolor.

    Iran and New Zealand kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns in exciting fashion after playing out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Both sides delivered a thrilling spectacle despite lacking some of the star power associated with the tournament's traditional heavyweights.

  Sweden delivered one of the standout performances of the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Tunisia 5-1 at Estadio Monterrey. Star forwards Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres played important roles in the victory, contributing both goals and assists as the Scandinavian side moved to the top of Group F.

  A late goal from Maximiliano Araujo saved Uruguay from another potential upset at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabia. The Asian representatives had goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais to thank, with his brilliant performance helping them earn a precious point.

  The Netherlands and Japan shared the spoils in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after playing out an entertaining 2-2 draw at Dallas Stadium. A late goal from Daichi Kamada rescued a point for the Samurai Blue and denied the Dutch all three points.