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The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is heating up, and this weekend delivered moments that will be remembered for generations. From Lionel Messi breaking yet another record to Jude Bellingham dragging England to the knockout rounds, here’s everything you need to know.
Messi Does It Again: First to Score in 7 Straight World Cup Games
If this is Lionel Messi’s final World Cup, he’s going out with every attacking record he can grab. The Argentina icon became the first player in World Cup history to score in seven consecutive matches during Argentina’s 3-1 win over Jordan on Saturday night in Dallas.
Coming off the bench in the 60th minute with Argentina clinging to a 2-1 lead after a nervy second half, Messi delivered a trademark free kick — a low, skidding effort past Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila — to restore Argentina’s cushion and seal a perfect group stage.
Before Messi entered, his teammates had already shown they could carry the load. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a rocket of a free kick in the 14th minute, while Lautaro Martínez converted a penalty in the 31st minute after Marcos Senesi drew a foul from a corner.
“Argentina also became the first side since the 2010 Japan side to score on two free kicks in a single World Cup game.”
The defending champions now advance to the Round of 32, where they’ll face Cape Verde in Miami — a matchup that should draw a massive crowd.
| Stat | Detail |
|---|---|
| Consecutive WC games with a goal | 7 (NEW RECORD) |
| Previous record holder | Multiple players (6) |
| Argentina group stage record | 3 wins, 0 draws |
| Next opponent | Cape Verde (Round of 32) |
| Venue | Miami, Florida |
Jude Bellingham Saves England’s Blushes
Meanwhile in New Jersey, Jude Bellingham was the hero as England secured top spot in Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama. The Real Madrid star broke the deadlock just after the hour mark with a brilliant hooked volley from Bukayo Saka’s corner, then turned provider by crossing for Harry Kane to head home five minutes later.
That goal made Kane England’s all-time top scorer in World Cup history — another record broken on the same night.
England now travels to Atlanta for their Round of 32 clash on Wednesday.
| Team | Pts | GD |
|---|---|---|
| England | 7 | +3 |
| Colombia | 5 | +1 |
| Ghana | 2 | -1 |
| Panama | 1 | -3 |
Around the World Cup
Colombia 0-0 Portugal: In a tense draw at Miami Stadium, Portugal and Colombia played out the first scoreless draw in Colombia’s 100-year World Cup history. Cristiano Ronaldo struggled to make an impact.
FAQ
Is this Messi’s last World Cup?
Messi himself hasn’t confirmed it, but at 39 years old, this is widely believed to be his final World Cup appearance.
Where can I watch the 2026 World Cup in the US?
All matches are broadcast on Fox Sports (English) and Telemundo/Universo (Spanish). Streaming options include FuboTV and Peacock.
How does the new 48-team format work?
The 2026 World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams. The top two from each group advance to a Round of 32, followed by the traditional knockout stages.
When is the 2026 World Cup final?
The final will be played on July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 World Cup has already delivered drama, history, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re watching at home or hosting a watch party — this is one for the history books.
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