FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo Eye Crucial Wins

Lionel Messi and the team are in excellent form. After a 3-0 victory against Algeria in their opening game, where Messi scored a hat trick and tied Miroslav Klose as the all-time top World Cup scorer with 16 goals.

Austria, in their first game against Jordan, also made a mark, winning 3-1 with two goals from Romano Schmidt, an own goal from Yazan Al-Arab, and a late penalty from Marko Arnautović.

Performance on the field will set up a nail-biting match, as both teams aim for the knockout stages in Texas.

Argentina still seems to have too much quality, particularly in the last third, although Austria has the potential to be a tougher challenge than Algeria.

After his masterclass against Algeria, it’s hard to doubt Lionel Messi.

The Inter Miami star is primed to deliver on the biggest stage once again as he closes in on becoming the greatest goalscorer in World Cup history.

Ronaldo seeks redemption in a crucial World Cup clash against DR Congo, as Ronaldo failed to score a single goal in 90 minutes, exceeding his goalless streak in major international tournaments to 10.

Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo after Yoane Wissa cancelled out Joao Neves’s early opener, while Colombia beat tournament debutants Uzbekistan 3-1.

Both teams now face each other this Tuesday.

In their World Cup debut, Uzbekistan struggled early but scored its first goal against Colombia after the hour mark.

Ronaldo, criticised after the DR Congo match, gets another chance and will aim to break the defence and make his mark with a strong performance.

Also Read: Marizanne Kapp Stars As South Africa Defeat India In Women’s T20 World Cup