Argentina and France Kick Off World Cup Campaigns

Argentina and France began their World Cup quests, with Argentina winning a dramatic contest against Algeria in Kansas City, finishing 3-3 after extra time and prevailing in a penalty shootout. Lionel Messi, the linchpin of the Argentina National Team and current coach Lionel Scaloni's key player, is participating in his sixth World Cup despite suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Inter Miami in late May.

Scaloni expressed confidence in Messi's fitness after he scored as a substitute in a warm-up match against Iceland. France, led by coach Didier Deschamps, is determined to avoid a repeat of their 2002 World Cup group stage exit.

Kylian Mbappé and other key players are expected to lead a potent attack. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland is set to make his World Cup debut for Norway against Iraq, as Norway qualifies for the tournament for the first time since 1998.

Other matches included Iran drawing 2-2 with New Zealand and Belgium managing a point against Egypt.