World Cup update: two victories and a Messi special

In their first World Cup match for 28 years, the Norwegian national team faced underdogs Iraq. Julian Ryerson started on the right-hand side of defence, as usual. There were slight doubts about the Scandinavians’ chances of winning the match when the Iraqis managed to equalise in the 39th minute following Erling Haaland’s opener (29). Another goal from Haaland (43), along with goals from Leo Østigard (76) and an own goal in stoppage time, sealed Norway’s comfortable 4-1 victory.

Jordan caused the Austrian team more of a headache. With Marcel Sabitzer in the starting line-up for the Red-White-Reds, the match developed into an evenly matched contest. Austria took the lead through Romano Schmid (20), but Jordan equalised early in the second half (50). The turning point came with the introduction of BVB forward Carney Chukwuemeka in the 60th minute. The Austrians subsequently dominated the match and ultimately won 3-1 in the closing stages following a Jordanian own goal (78) and a penalty from Arnautovic in stoppage time.

Global superstar Lionel Messi put on a masterclass, so Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini was left empty-handed at the end of the first matchday for Algeria. In the clash in Kansas City between Algeria and Argentina, the best player of the last World Cup scored all three goals for the Albiceleste. Bensebaini, who had recovered in time for the clash with the reigning world champions after a lengthy injury lay-off, played the full 90 minutes in Algeria’s central defence.