Messi nets first World Cup hat-trick at 38 as France and Norway open with wins

Opening-day action at the 2026 FIFA World Cup drew sharp review from Jamaican football analysts on June 16, with Lionel Messi's performance for Argentina leading discussion alongside strong showings from France and Norway.

Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0, with Messi scoring all three goals in what panelists described as his first hat-trick at a World Cup. At 38, the forward was praised for sharp movement, a follow-up finish, and composure in front of goal despite his years at the top level.

France beat Senegal 3-1 after a slower first half. Kylian Mbappé scored twice, including a clinical first-time finish after a pass from Michael Olise, who was credited with unlocking the attack once moved into a more central role in the second period. Coach Germaine Thomas, a Jamaica Football Federation coaching educator and national under-20 assistant, said Senegal held its shape early before France raised its tempo. Former Reggae Boy Tyrone Marshall noted Mbappé looked more comfortable drifting inside after the break.

Norway opened with a 4-1 win over Iraq. Erling Haaland scored twice on his World Cup debut, with analysts pointing to his positioning in the box and Norway's strength on set pieces as factors that could test shorter defences later in the tournament.

In Group I, Norway led the standings after the first round, with France second, Senegal third and Iraq at the bottom. In Group J, Argentina sat top after its win.

A penalty appeal involving Mbappé in the France-Senegal match went to VAR and was upheld as no foul. Former Jamaican referee Victor Stewart said any contact appeared incidental and consistent with the flow of play, backing the on-field official's judgment.

Panellist Rashida Murphy named Mbappé, Messi and Haaland as her top three performers of the day, though Marshall argued Messi deserved first place after his hat-trick. An Iranian player, speaking after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, said off-field pressures had affected the squad but pledged the team would keep fighting for supporters.

Analysts also noted a trend of bright pink boots worn by many players at the tournament, linked to manufacturers' research on visibility and player confidence.