2026 World Cup: After the downpour, Mbappé seals the deal against Iraq

All sorts of things are happening in Philadelphia. Adverse weather conditions forced the organizers to suspend the France-Iraq match for just over two hours. When play resumed, Les Bleus secured a decisive 3-0 victory, thereby earning their spot in the World Cup Round of 16.

Once again, Mbappé was the undisputed star of the match. The Real Madrid superstar scored a brace (with Dembélé netting France’s third goal), bringing his tournament tally to four goals—just one behind Messi. Their battle for the title of the tournament’s top scorer (and the all-time World Cup top scorer) is getting very interesting.

Norway also has reason to smile after defeating Senegal 3-2—albeit with some nail-biting moments—and securing a spot in the group stage. Haaland also did his part, scoring two more goals just like in the opener, confirming that the Norwegians are a top-tier team.

Finally, in the group dominated by Messi’s Argentina, Algeria pulled off a surprise: a 2-1 victory over Jordan. A win that could secure their spot in the round of 16. Both of Algeria’s goals came off corner kicks. The winning goal, in the 83rd minute, was scored by Gouiri.