FIFA World Cup 2026: Shocks, Records Mark Opening Round

Historic scoring milestones and stunning defensive masterclass from underdogs dominated headlines in the first round of the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In 24 opening-round matches, 15 victories and nine competitive draws established a wide-open race for the newly introduced Round of 32 knockout stage.

Lionel Messi made a loud statement with a historic hat-trick to pull defending champions Argentina to a 3-0 win over Algeria and draw level with Miroslav Klose’s all-time record of 16 World Cup goals.

Kylian Mbappe scored a brace in France’s 3-1 over Senegal to become his country's all-time leading goalscorer.

Germany recorded the biggest win of the round to dismantle debutants Curacao 7–1 while Harry Kane spearheaded England to a 4-2 victory over with a brace to tie Gary Lineker as the Three Lions' highest-ever World Cup scorer.

Erling Haaland made his tournament debut memorable with a brace as Norway returned to the World Cup after 28 years with a 4-1 victory over Iraq.

African nations showed incredible resilience as Cape Verde halted Spain 0-0 in the shock result of the round with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha becoming a global social media sensation after pulling off a string of miracle saves.

Portugal were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw by DR Congo as Cristiano Ronaldo went scoreless for the 10th consecutive major international tournament game.

Mighty Brazil were held to a 1–1 draw by Morocco while Egypt battled a 1–1 draw against fancied.

Host nations enjoyed an unbeaten opening week with USA brushing aside Paraguay 4–1, Mexico downed South Africa 2-0 while Canada fought back to capture a 1–1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.