Lionel Messi has once again written his name into football history, scoring twice to lead Argentina past Austria and into the knockout stage of the World Cup. The 2-0 victory in Arlington, Texas, not only secured Argentina’s progress but also elevated Messi to the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring chart.

The Argentina captain struck first in the 38th minute, calmly finishing past Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. That goal pushed him to 17 World Cup goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record of 16. Messi then added another in stoppage time, driving the ball through a crowded defence to seal the win and extend his tally to 18.

The achievement came just days before Messi’s 39th birthday, underscoring his longevity and consistency at the highest level. His brace against Austria followed a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 win over Algeria, bringing his total to five goals in this tournament alone.

Messi had earlier missed a chance to break the record when he dragged a penalty wide in the eighth minute. But he recovered quickly, showing composure and precision when it mattered most. His performance ensured Argentina’s safe passage to the last 32, with the possibility of topping Group J depending on other results later in the day.

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The victory also highlighted Argentina’s resilience as defending champions. While Austria offered resistance, they struggled to contain Messi’s influence. His leadership and finishing proved decisive, reminding the football world of his enduring impact.

Beyond Argentina’s triumph, Messi’s record has intensified the race among top strikers. France’s Kylian Mbappe, who faces Iraq in Philadelphia, remains four goals behind on 14. Mbappe, set to mark his 100th international appearance, is chasing history himself but now faces a steeper climb.

Elsewhere in Group I, Norway’s Erling Haaland continues to impress, having scored twice in their opening win against Iraq. Spain bounced back with a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, while Cape Verde earned a spirited 2-2 draw against Uruguay, keeping their knockout hopes alive.

In Group G, Belgium remain winless after a goalless draw with Iran. The match carried symbolic weight, with Iran’s players leaving a message calling for peace and friendship among nations. Egypt, meanwhile, celebrated their first-ever World Cup win, defeating New Zealand 3-1 to top the group.

For Argentina, however, the spotlight remains firmly on Messi. His record-breaking feat has added another chapter to his storied career. With Argentina safely through, attention now turns to how far Messi can extend his tally and whether he can inspire his team to another title.

Mohamed Salah has joined the elite list of African players with the most combined goals and assists at the FIFA World Cup. His decisive role in Egypt’s 3-1 victory over New Zealand in Vancouver not only secured a historic first win for the Pharaohs but also elevated his standing among Africa’s greatest football icons.

The Liverpool forward scored once and provided an assist, ensuring his name now sits alongside legends such as Roger Milla, Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, and Asamoah Gyan. For Egypt, the moment was more than statistical—it was symbolic of their breakthrough on football’s biggest stage.

Salah’s achievement reflects a broader narrative of African players shaping global football. Over the decades, African stars have consistently delivered memorable performances at the World Cup, often against formidable opposition.

From Milla’s iconic celebration in 1990 to Eto’o’s clinical finishing for Cameroon, African players have demonstrated resilience and flair. Salah’s addition to this list underscores the continuity of excellence and the continent’s ability to produce world-class talent.

Egypt’s triumph over New Zealand was their first-ever World Cup victory, ending a 92-year wait since their debut in 1934. Salah’s leadership was central to the result. His goal in the 67th minute gave Egypt the lead, while his assist for Mahmoud Trezeguet sealed the win.

Observers noted that Salah’s influence extended beyond statistics. His composure and tactical awareness inspired teammates, while his presence unsettled the New Zealand defence. For Egyptian fans, the victory was a landmark moment, celebrated across the country.

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Salah’s record now places him in the company of Africa’s most decorated forwards. While Milla remains celebrated for his longevity, and Drogba for his power, Salah’s hallmark has been consistency and precision.

His ability to combine scoring with playmaking distinguishes him from many predecessors. Analysts argue that his dual contribution—goals and assists—reflects the modern demands of football, where versatility is prized.

Salah’s feat carries wider significance for African football. It highlights the continent’s growing competitiveness at the World Cup and reinforces the argument for greater investment in grassroots development.

African teams have often faced challenges in advancing beyond the group stages, but individual brilliance has kept the continent visible on the global stage. Salah’s performance may inspire younger players across Africa to aim higher and believe in their potential.

Mohamed Salah’s entry into the list of African players with the most World Cup goals and assists is a milestone for both Egypt and the continent. His performance in Vancouver not only secured a historic win for Egypt but also reaffirmed Africa’s enduring presence in world football.

As the 2026 tournament progresses, Salah’s achievement will remain a reference point for discussions about African excellence. For Egypt, it is a moment of pride; for Africa, it is another chapter in a story of resilience, talent, and global recognition.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the state to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The move underscores the ruling party’s preparations ahead of the next governorship election in Gombe.

Yahaya, who led a delegation of party leaders, described the candidate as a credible choice capable of consolidating APC’s gains in the state. He emphasised that the presentation was part of efforts to strengthen unity within the party and align with national leadership.

President Tinubu received the delegation and assured them of his support. He urged the candidate to focus on service delivery, stressing that governance must reflect the needs of the people. Tinubu also highlighted the importance of party discipline, noting that APC’s strength lies in its ability to remain cohesive despite political challenges.

The President’s endorsement is seen as a significant boost for the candidate, who now carries the weight of national backing into the campaign.

The presentation reflects APC’s broader strategy of consolidating its hold on key states. Gombe has been a stronghold for the party, and Yahaya’s administration has maintained influence across the region. By introducing the candidate directly to Tinubu, the party signals its intent to maintain continuity and avoid internal divisions.

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Analysts argue that the move is also symbolic, showing that APC leadership at the state level remains firmly aligned with the national agenda.

Though details of the candidate’s campaign strategy are yet to be unveiled, party insiders describe him as a grassroots politician with strong ties to local communities. His emergence followed consultations among stakeholders, aimed at ensuring broad acceptance within the party.

Observers believe his candidacy will test APC’s ability to balance continuity with fresh ideas, especially in a state where opposition parties are keen to make inroads.

The presentation to Tinubu is expected to energise APC supporters in Gombe. It also sets the tone for what could be a competitive race, as opposition parties prepare to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.

For Yahaya, the move reinforces his role as a key political figure in the North-East. His ability to rally support around the candidate will be crucial in determining APC’s performance in the election.

Governor Yahaya’s presentation of the APC governorship candidate to President Tinubu marks a significant step in the party’s preparations for the Gombe election. With Tinubu’s endorsement, the candidate enters the race with national backing and a clear mandate to sustain APC’s influence in the state.

The development highlights the party’s emphasis on unity, discipline, and continuity, while setting the stage for a contest that will shape Gombe’s political future.