Superstars shine as FIFA World Cup 2026 begins in Kansas City

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 3:12 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Superstars shine as FIFA World Cup 2026 begins in Kansas City
Summary

The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off with teams showcasing their talent at various venues, including Kansas City. Notable performances came from Lionel Messi, who scored three goals in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, and Kylian Mbappe, who netted two in France's victory over Senegal. As groups progress, early results indicate that both powerhouse and underdog teams are competing fiercely, with significant games still to unfold. The tournament, expanded to 48 teams from 32, has so far maintained high competitive quality against predictions of dilution.

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By the Numbers
  • Argentina won against Algeria with Messi scoring three goals
  • France secured a victory over Senegal with Mbappe's two goals
  • The tournament features 48 teams, expanding from the previous 32
  • DR Congo and Cabo Verde performed well against stronger opponents
  • Upcoming matches will continue to shape group standings
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  • 3:12 PMYahoo Sports5 things we learned in the first week of the FIFA World Cup
What they're saying
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From superstar performances to the United States’ dominance, here is what caught our eye so far.

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