World Cup 2026 Group Stage: Ronaldo Scores, Messi Breaks Record, Türkiye Eliminated

The second round of group-stage matches at the 2026 World Cup delivered dramatic storylines. Cristiano Ronaldo finally found the net, Lionel Messi set a new scoring milestone, Iran continued to prove their fighting mettle, while Türkiye were eliminated.

Cristiano Ronaldo Scores for Portugal

Unlike many high-profile strikers, Ronaldo needed extra time to get off the mark. In a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan on Tuesday, the 41-year-old forward scored two goals, entering the history books as the first player to score at six different World Cups.

Messi at His Best in 'Last Dance'

Messi, who celebrated his 39th birthday on Wednesday, is in outstanding form. He broke the World Cup all-time scoring record with 18 goals, becoming the top scorer in tournament history. Argentina are now firm title contenders, and Messi leads the Golden Boot race with five goals—one ahead of France's Kylian Mbappé. All five of Argentina's goals have been scored by Messi.

Messi, Mbappé, Haaland All Score on the Same Day

When the schedule placed Argentina, France, and Norway on the same pitch day, fans were treated to a goal fest. For the second consecutive Monday, Messi netted a brace, Mbappé also grabbed a double, and Erling Haaland finished the day with two goals.

Norway's 'Viking Row' Goes Viral

Returning to the World Cup after a 28-year absence, Norway celebrated their place in the round of 32 in trademark fashion: performing the 'Viking row' (rowing formation) in the stadium. Captain Martin Ødegaard beat a drum as thousands of Norwegian fans joined the revelry.

Egypt and Salah Celebrate in the Streets of Vancouver

Egypt waited 92 years for their first World Cup victory. After beating New Zealand 3-1 on Sunday, the entire team took to the streets of Vancouver, singing and dancing with supporters. Mohamed Salah, nicknamed the 'Egyptian King', was the centerpiece, carried on teammates' shoulders.

Japan – Asia's Top Hope

While Asian sides started impressively, only Japan maintained momentum. After a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, Japan thrashed Tunisia 4-0 on Saturday, amassing four points—the highest tally among Asian teams. According to Opta's supercomputer, Japan have a 20.8% chance of reaching the quarter-finals and a 9.41% chance of making the semi-finals.

Iran Hold Firm, Keep Hopes Alive

Iran remain unbeaten with two draws, despite facing travel restrictions imposed by the United States. The team will be allowed to fly from Mexico into the US two days before their match against Egypt, instead of the previous one-day window. A win would send them through; a draw might also suffice if other results go their way.

Türkiye Disappoint

Despite boasting a talented squad including Arda Güler, Kenan Yıldız, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, and Merih Demiral, Türkiye were eliminated following a 1-0 loss to Paraguay. The early exit leaves millions of Turkish fans heartbroken after a 24-year wait to see their team return to the World Cup.

US Win Without Pulisic

Christian Pulisic has long been the face of the US team, but the co-hosts proved they can win without him. Sidelined by a calf injury, Pulisic watched as Alex Freeman scored and an own goal from Cameron Burgess sealed a 2-0 win over Australia, sending the US into the knockout rounds.

Almirón Gets Historic Red Card

Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almirón became the first player sent off at the 2026 World Cup for covering his mouth. He covered his mouth during a confrontation with Türkiye's Mert Müldür and received a straight red card, along with a one-match suspension, under new rules prohibiting players from covering their mouths to hide their speech in confrontational situations.