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Messi Breaks World Cup Scoring Record as France Advance Despite Weather Delays

Posted : 23 June 2026

Lionel Messi made World Cup history on Monday by becoming the competition’s all-time leading goalscorer, guiding Argentina into the last 32 with a 2-0 win over Austria. The milestone came on a day packed with drama, as France also progressed despite severe weather disruption, while Norway secured qualification after another high-scoring victory.

The Argentina captain, who had earlier missed a penalty, recovered to score twice in the Group J clash in Texas, taking his tournament tally to five goals. His opener came shortly before halftime, followed by a stoppage-time finish that moved him to 18 World Cup goals overall, surpassing the previous record. Argentina’s win guaranteed top spot in the group.

Messi later admitted frustration after his missed penalty but said the team’s response was key to turning the match around. His performance once again placed him at the centre of a day dominated by elite attacking displays from the game’s biggest stars.

In Philadelphia, France overcame a long weather delay to defeat Iraq 3-0 and secure their place in the knockout stage. Kylian Mbappé marked his 100th international appearance with two goals, including a powerful early strike, before Ousmane Dembélé added a third after the match resumed following a near two-hour suspension due to a storm.

France coach Didier Deschamps praised his team’s composure during the unusual interruption, noting that safety regulations required the delay due to lightning in the area. Despite the disruption, France maintained control to finish the job comfortably.

Elsewhere, Norway continued their impressive form with a 3-2 win over Senegal, led by another brace from Erling Haaland and a goal from Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Senegal responded through a double from Ismaila Sarr but fell short in a thrilling contest.

Haaland’s performance ensured he remained among the tournament’s leading scorers, as Norway set up a decisive final Group I clash against France. The winner of that encounter will finish top of the group, adding further tension to an already compelling World Cup stage.

 

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