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Published Jun 22, 2026Updated Jun 23 Major1
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Messi, Mbappé, Haaland Set for World Cup Glory as Group Stage Intensifies
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland are set to play on the same day again, with Messi poised to break the all-time World Cup scoring record. Egypt records its first World Cup win, Cape Verde stuns with another draw, and Spain dominates Saudi Arabia. Key matches include Argentina vs. Austria, France vs. Iraq, and Norway vs. Senegal.
Quick Facts
- Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland scored a combined seven goals last week and are all in action again today
- Messi tied Klose's 16-goal World Cup record and could break it
- Egypt beats New Zealand 3-1 for first World Cup win
- Iran draws 0-0 with Belgium (Belgium had Nathan Ngoy sent off)
- Cape Verde draws 2-2 with Uruguay
A day after combining for seven goals in separate matches, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland return to the pitch in what could be a historic day at the World Cup. The trio are all in action today, with Messi chasing the all-time tournament scoring record and Mbappé and Haaland looking to build on their early performances.
In Group G, Egypt secured its first World Cup win with a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, moving to the top of the standings. Mohamed Salah scored and assisted, but Egypt still needs at least a draw against Iran on Friday in Seattle to guarantee a knockout round spot. Iran also remains in contention after a goalless draw with Belgium, who had Nathan Ngoy sent off and played with 10 men for much of the second half.
Cape Verde continued its impressive run, holding two-time champions Uruguay to a 2-2 draw in Miami after previously drawing with Spain. Spain rebounded with a dominant 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, as 18-year-old Lamine Yamal became only the second player under 19 to open the scoring in a World Cup match, following Pelé. The victory re-established Spain as tournament favorites.
Today’s schedule includes three marquee matches: Argentina faces Austria in Dallas at 1 p.m. ET, where Messi could break Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring record of 16 goals. Mbappé, who has 14 goals after scoring twice against Senegal, will take on Iraq at 5 p.m. ET in Philadelphia. At 8 p.m. ET, Norway faces Senegal in New Jersey, with Haaland aiming to add to his two-goal tally against a strong African side.
Fans can watch all matches on Telemundo and Peacock, with coverage from the Men in Blazers team and full live-blogging from NBC News.
Why This Matters
This alignment of three of the world's best players—Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland—on the same matchday could redefine World Cup history. Messi's potential record-breaking goal would cement his legacy, while Mbappé and Haaland's performances will influence group standings and knockout-stage prospects. Fans can watch live on Telemundo and Peacock, with expert analysis from Men in Blazers and NBC News coverage. The outcomes of these matches will shape the tournament's narrative and affect betting odds, fantasy lineups, and global fan engagement.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 22, 2026
WireEgypt beats New Zealand 3-1, Iran draws 0-0 with Belgium, Cape Verde draws 2-2 with Uruguay, Spain beats Saudi Arabia 4-0
Jun 22, 2026
WireArgentina vs. Austria (Messi could break scoring record)
Jun 22, 2026
WireNorway vs. Senegal
Jun 22, 2026
WireJordan vs. Algeria