Messi, Mbappé and Haaland light up the World Cup as the favourites roar in

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Lionel Messi marked his record sixth World Cup with his first hat-trick at the finals, drawing level with Miroslav Klose on 16 goals as the all-time World Cup top scorer, as defending champions Argentina swept aside Algeria 3-0. One of his goals came from distance, capping a commanding statement in Kansas City as the holders opened their title defence in style.

France made an equally emphatic entrance, beating Senegal 3-1 with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to become his country's all-time leading scorer, and Bradley Barcola also on target. It was a powerful start for one of the tournament favourites.

Norway, back at a World Cup after a long absence, completed the set of star turns, with Erling Haaland scoring twice in a 4-1 win over Iraq.

Transfer and squad notes

The day belonged to the game's biggest names: Messi, Mbappé and Haaland all left their mark within hours of each other, with Messi's record-equalling tally and Mbappé's national milestone the standout achievements of a landmark evening.

The results also reshaped the early standings, with Argentina, France and Norway all moving top of their respective groups after opening wins, asserting the gap the heavyweights can still impose once they hit form.

What it means for the league

After several days dominated by draws and minnow heroics, Day 6 belonged firmly to the favourites. The superstars who had waited to enter the tournament delivered in unison, restoring a measure of order to a group stage that had threatened to flatten the hierarchy.

For Argentina in particular, Messi's form sharpens their title defence after South America's stuttering start, while France and Norway have served notice of their intent. The second round of group games will now test whether those statements can be backed up.