The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up! Matchday 9 brought history, drama, and absolute quality across the United States. Here’s everything you need to know about today’s action.
🇪🇬 Egypt 3–1 New Zealand — History for the Pharaohs
Mohamed Salah delivered when it mattered most, scoring one and assisting another as Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3–1 — securing their first-ever World Cup victory in their fourth tournament appearance (their first was all the way back in 1934).
New Zealand stunned the Egyptians early, taking the lead through Finn Surman’s 15th-minute header from Tim Payne’s corner. The All Whites looked poised for their own historic first win.
But Egypt’s tactical adjustments at halftime turned the game around. Mostafa Zico (named after the Brazilian legend) headed home in the 58th minute to level the score. Then Salah worked a brilliant one-two with Zico before slotting into the bottom corner to put Egypt ahead. Captain Trezeguet sealed it with a header from Salah’s corner in the 82nd minute.
The win puts Egypt top of Group G and within touching distance of the knockout stages for the first time ever. They face Iran next on Saturday.
🇪🇸 Spain 4–0 Saudi Arabia — Yamal Magic
Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal led Spain to a commanding 4–0 win over Saudi Arabia in what was the tournament favorites’ most convincing performance yet.
Spain dominated possession (72%) and created chance after chance. Yamal, still only 18, terrorized the Saudi defense with his dribbling, while Oyarzabal’s movement caused constant problems. The result puts Spain in a strong position to top their group.
🇦🇷 Argentina vs Austria — LIVE Now
Lionel Messi takes the field for his 28th World Cup appearance, and history beckons — one more goal will make him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals history.
Argentina are coming off a 3–0 win over Algeria (Messi hat-trick) and face a tough Austrian side featuring David Alaba and Kevin Danso.
🇫🇷 France vs Iraq — Group I Battle
France face Iraq in Philadelphia as they look to build on their World Cup campaign. With Norway and Senegal also in Group I, every point matters in what’s shaping up to be a tight group.
Upcoming Matches (June 23)
| Belgium vs New Zealand | Group G | Afternoon ET |
| Iran vs Egypt | Group G | Afternoon ET |
| Norway vs Senegal | Group I | Evening ET |
| Saudi Arabia vs [TBD] | Group H | Evening ET |
FAQ
Where is the 2026 World Cup being played?
The tournament is hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — the first World Cup with three host nations. Matches are being played in cities including Philadelphia, San Francisco, New York, Mexico City, and Toronto.
How do the group stages work?
48 teams are divided into 12 groups of 4. The top two from each group advance, along with the 8 best third-placed teams, making a 32-team knockout round.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026?
In the US, matches are broadcast on Fox Sports and streamed on Fubo. In the UK, BBC and ITV are sharing coverage. Check local listings for your region.
Can Messi break the all-time World Cup scoring record today?
Yes! Lionel Messi needs just one goal against Austria to become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals history. He scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s opener against Algeria.
Final Thoughts
Today was monumental — Egypt’s first World Cup win is a beautiful story, Spain look terrifyingly good, and Messi chasing history is must-watch TV. The knockout rounds are taking shape, and we’re in for a treat.
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