World Cup round-up: Lionel Messi makes historical past as Premier League star compelled to fly dwelling
Lionel Messi wrote himself in yet another history book as the Argentine wizard scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals to stand alone as the top goalscorer in the tournament’s history.
The Inter Miami star broke the record just two days before his 39th birthday with his fifth goal in Argentina’s second game at this year’s tournament. Argentina secured their qualification to the knockout round with a 2-0 win over Austria, with Messi grabbing both goals, but he could have had more after missing a first-half penalty.
Later in the night, Kylian Mbappe scored a brace as France swept aside Iraq 3-0 in a heavily delayed match in Philadelphia due to severe weather. Erling Haaland also made sure he got his moment in the spotlight as the Manchester City striker scored twice in Norway’s 3-2 win over Senegal. Norway’s victory means they have joined France in securing qualification from Group I.
While Algeria won their first-ever World Cup game after coming from behind to beat Jordan 2-1 and keep their knockout hopes alive. Here, the Daily Star Sport looks at the latest news from North America.
Severe weather causes suspension
The Group I World Cup clash between France and Iraq in Philadelphia was halted at half-time due to heavy downpours and hazardous lightning. Supporters were forced to leave the open seating areas, resulting in a total postponement of more than two hours before action could safely continue.
FIFA then took the rare step of scrapping the mandatory three-minute hydration break during the second-half. This emergency measure was implemented because the extended storm interruption had left significant dampness on the surface and transformed the stadium environment.
Lionel Messi claims the ultimate World Cup goalscoring record
Argentina legend Lionel Messi became the outright leading goalscorer in World Cup history by finding the net twice in a 2-0 triumph over Austria. Despite missing an early spot-kick, his landmark 17th tournament strike eclipsed the long-held record previously owned by Germany icon Miroslav Klose.
Erling Haaland dazzles for Norway
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland recovered from an open goal miss in the first-half to net a spectacular second-half double in Norway’s 3-2 triumph over Senegal. His match-deciding display meant that he, Messi, and Mbappe all extraordinarily bagged braces on the very same day of tournament football.
A commentator loses credentials
Paraguayan broadcaster Jorge Vera saw his World Cup press accreditation withdrawn by FIFA after an explosive on-air meltdown. He unleashed a blistering personal assault on the match official and FIFA President Gianni Infantino following player Miguel Almiron’s dismissal.
The former Newcastle ace became the first player ever sent off under a stringent new FIFA anti-discrimination rule that prohibits covering their mouth during altercations. While his national broadcaster has appealed for clemency regarding the commentator’s ensuing outburst, Vera has publicly expressed regret for losing his temper.
Jeremy Doku catches emergency flight home
Belgium and Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku received permission to leave the squad’s base to board a last-minute flight to London for the arrival of his first child. He successfully welcomed his newborn son, Praise, and is expected to rejoin his international colleagues in Seattle before their vital clash against New Zealand.
Roy Keane brushes off acclaim for Thomas Tuchel’s team talk
Roy Keane has suggested that players and media are grossly overhyping England manager Thomas Tuchel’s half-time team talk during their 4-2 victory over Croatia. While England aces Declan Rice and Harry Kane attributed the manager’s tactical tweaks to their improved performance, Keane candidly argued that inspiring the squad is just a fundamental part of the job.
