The stars delivered on the World Cup stage Tuesday as Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe reminded fans why they remain among football's biggest names.
Messi struck a hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria, Haaland scored twice against Iraq, and Mbappe netted a brace against Senegal, giving the tournament favorites a welcome boost.
Their performances were far from guaranteed.
Messi is in the latter stages of a glittering career after moving to Major League Soccer in 2023, while Haaland endured a midseason slump in the Premier League and Mbappe's form dipped during the second half of the La Liga season.
Argentina's Lionel Messi enters the pitch ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group J football match against Algeria at the Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, U.S., June 16, 2026. (AFP Photo)
