World Cup 2026, live: Messi's preparation for the match against Austria and the start of the second date

The world of football was abuzz on June 17, 2026, as the FIFA World Cup entered its second day of action. The most talked-about moment came from Argentina’s opening match against Saudi Arabia, where Lionel Messi delivered a performance that would be remembered for years. In a dominant display, Messi scored three goals, helping Argentina secure a resounding victory with a scoreline of 5-0. His hat-trick not only marked his personal milestone but also saw him equal the record for most goals in World Cup history, previously held by Miroslav Klose. This achievement solidified Messi's status as one of the greatest players ever to grace the sport.

The game itself was a showcase of Argentina's attacking prowess. From the outset, the team demonstrated control over the match, with Messi orchestrating play from midfield before making his mark in front of goal. His first goal came in the 23rd minute after a well-worked move involving several teammates. The second followed shortly after, again highlighting his clinical finishing ability. The third goal sealed the result in the closing stages, ensuring that Argentina started their campaign on a high note. Fans around the globe celebrated this historic performance, which many considered a fitting tribute to Messi’s legacy in international football.

In addition to Messi’s brilliance, other players contributed significantly to Argentina’s win. Alexis Mac Allister spoke afterward about the importance of building a team structure that allows Messi to thrive, emphasizing the need for collective effort beyond just relying on his star power. Meanwhile, head coach Lionel Scaloni expressed cautious optimism despite the convincing victory, warning that confidence should not lead to complacency. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that while the team had made a strong start, they could still face tough competition in subsequent matches.

Beyond Argentina’s success, other teams also made headlines during the opening day of the tournament. France secured a notable win against Poland, with Kylian Mbappé playing a pivotal role in the victory. His performance was instrumental in France’s progress, reinforcing expectations that he might become a central figure in the French campaign. Similarly, Austria began their journey with a hard-fought victory over Jordan, thanks largely to a late goal from Marko Arnautovic. The match featured moments of tension, including an own goal by Jordan’s Yazan Al Arab, which briefly shifted momentum before Austria managed to seal the win.

Meanwhile, discussions surrounding the psychological aspects of preparing for such a prestigious tournament were also prominent. Fabián Jalife, a psychologist and consultant, highlighted how Scaloni has been working to ensure that his players remain focused and free from distractions related to past experiences or future anxieties. This approach aims to create a balanced mindset among the squad members, allowing them to perform at their best without being weighed down by external pressures.

As the World Cup continued into its second day, additional incidents added layers of complexity to the narrative. In another group stage encounter, England faced Croatia in a match marred by controversy when a penalty decision sparked debate. The incident occurred early in the game when Noni Madueke was fouled by Luka Modrić inside the box. The referee awarded the spot-kick, which Harry Kane converted, though some questioned whether the foul warranted such a harsh punishment. This moment underscored the fine margins that often define crucial decisions in high-stakes matches.

Elsewhere, security concerns emerged as Mexico prepared to take on South Korea. An unauthorized drone was spotted flying over the training ground of the South Korean team, prompting immediate intervention by Mexican authorities. The device was quickly intercepted, revealing the heightened level of security measures implemented across all World Cup venues. Such incidents reflect the broader context of safety protocols designed to protect both players and spectators throughout the tournament.

With these developments shaping the initial phase of the World Cup, attention now turns toward upcoming fixtures. As teams continue to adjust to the demands of global competition, the performances witnessed so far have set the tone for what promises to be an intense and unpredictable tournament. Whether through individual brilliance or strategic teamwork, each match will contribute to the unfolding story of the 2026 World Cup, offering fans worldwide countless moments of excitement and anticipation.