The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the gift that keeps on giving, as it treated fans around the world to yet another spectacular set of games last night.
Within the tournament itself, three players seem to be involved in a competition of their own: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. After Mbappe set the tone, Haaland followed suit, and Messi went one better in the first round. All three of them settled for a brace each this time around.
Two days away from his 39th birthday, the Barcelona icon continues to do things that make no sense on a football pitch. Apart from Messi, one other Barcelona player was in action last night: Jules Kounde. The Frenchman helped his side keep a clean sheet against Iraq.
Messi vs Austria: Another historic night
Lionel Messi produced another historic night in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria. He was the headline act, as he so often has been.
The former Barcelona captain scored both goals for Argentina, taking his tally to five goals at this World Cup and helping the defending champions seal a place in the knockouts with a game to spare. He also missed a penalty, but even that barely changed the story of the night.
His first goal came after a flowing Argentina move, with Messi starting the attack and then arriving in the box to finish. The second came in stoppage time, reacting quickly inside the area to close the game. It was classic Messi: timing, calmness and punishment.
These nights always feel personal for a Barça fan. Messi is no longer a Barça player, but every major moment in his career still carries a part of the club with it. Watching him rewrite World Cup history at almost 39 is not just nostalgia. It is a reminder of the standard he set.
Kounde vs Iraq: Solid and steady
Kounde’s night was much quieter, but still useful. France beat Iraq 3-0 through two Mbappe goals and one from Ousmane Dembele, with Kounde playing until the 83rd minute before being replaced by Malo Gusto.
France limited Iraq to six shots and two on target, while Kounde added four tackles and four clearances. That is the kind of defensive contribution that does not dominate highlights, but helps keep a game under control.
Kounde’s World Cup is not about glamour. It is about confidence, rhythm and sharp defensive displays after an underwhelming club season. All things considered, he had a very good display too.
The bottom line
Messi defies age. Kounde delivers solidity. Barcelona fans watch with pride.
Two goals for the Argentine legend. A clean sheet for the French defender. Both players doing their part on the world stage.
Messi is rewriting history. Kounde is rebuilding confidence. And Barcelona’s presence at this World Cup is felt in every performance.
