The favorites largely took care of business yesterday as France, Argentina, Norway, and Austria all opened their FIFA World Cup campaigns with victories.
France kicked off the day with a 3-1 win over Senegal, led by a historic performance from Kylian Mbappé. The French superstar scored twice, giving him 58 international goals and moving him past Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer.
Norway followed with a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq, powered by its biggest star. Erling Haaland found the back of the net twice as the Norwegians made a successful return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
Defending champion Argentina also began its title defense in style. Lionel Messi turned back the clock with a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria. The three goals brought Messi level with Miroslav Klose for the most goals in FIFA World Cup history with 16.
Austria completed the day’s action with a 3-1 victory over Jordan. After Jordan equalized early in the second half, Austria regained control thanks to an own goal off a corner kick before Marko Arnautović converted a late penalty to put the match away.
Attention now shifts to the final group of nations set to make their tournament debuts.
Portugal and DR Congo get the day started at 1 p.m. as Cristiano Ronaldo begins what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance. At 4 p.m., two European powers collide when England takes on Croatia.
Ghana and Panama meet at 7 p.m., before the final two debuting nations of the tournament, Uzbekistan and Colombia, square off in the day’s final match at 10 p.m.
MyFM Sports Director Dylan Potemri will continue bringing listeners daily World Cup Updates throughout the tournament, featuring match recaps, major storylines, and previews of upcoming matches.
Fans looking to experience the World Cup atmosphere locally can visit official MetroWest fan zones, viewing parties, and special events happening throughout the region. For schedules, locations, and additional information, visit MetroWestVisitors.org.
