Picture Credit: Reuters
Two of football’s greatest stars experienced contrasting fortunes at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Wednesday, with Lionel Messi inspiring Argentina to victory while Cristiano Ronaldo saw Portugal held by a resilient DR Congo side.
Messi marked his sixth World Cup appearance in spectacular fashion. He scored all three goals in Argentina’s commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. The Group J opener took place at Kansas City Stadium.
The Argentine captain equalled Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals and moved closer to setting a new benchmark.
Messi opened the scoring with a brilliant solo effort before adding a second after capitalising on a rebound. He completed his hat-trick with a trademark curling finish from the edge of the area.
The victory gave the defending champions a strong start to their campaign and reinforced Messi’s status as one of the tournament’s leading figures.
While Messi celebrated, Ronaldo endured a frustrating evening as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in a Group K encounter in Houston.
Portugal made an ideal start when João Neves headed home in the sixth minute.
DR Congo responded just before half-time through Yoane Wissa, whose powerful header secured a historic equaliser.
Despite dominating possession, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut opportunities and managed only one shot on target throughout the match.
Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match at 41 years and 132 days, was unable to add to his World Cup goal tally.
The draw marked a milestone for DR Congo. The team collected its first-ever World Cup point. DR Congo also scored its first goal at the tournament. The achievement came 52 years after the country’s World Cup debut.
With Colombia and Uzbekistan also in Group K, Portugal remains the favourite to advance. Still, the dropped points have increased the pressure on Ronaldo and his teammates ahead of their remaining group fixtures.
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