Ronaldo Draws Blank, Messi Makes History: FIFA World Cup 2026 Delivers Early Drama
- By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, Boston
- Jun 18, 2026
- 172
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has already produced unforgettable moments, with football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo experiencing contrasting starts to the tournament. While Messi scripted history with a sensational hat-trick for Argentina, Ronaldo endured a frustrating outing as Portugal were held to a surprise draw by Congo.
Portugal Shocked As Congo Secure Historic 1-1 Draw
One of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 came in Houston on Wednesday when Congo held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their Group K clash. The African nation, making its first World Cup appearance in 52 years, celebrated a historic achievement by scoring its first-ever FIFA World Cup goal.
Portugal took an early lead at NRG Stadium when João Neves converted Pedro Neto's cross with a powerful header in the sixth minute. However, Congo fought back and equalized just before halftime through Yoane Wissa, who headed home from Arthur Masuaku's delivery in stoppage time.
The result leaves Portugal under pressure heading into crucial group-stage fixtures against Uzbekistan and Colombia.
Cristiano Ronaldo Sets Age Record But Misses Chances
Despite setting another milestone, Cristiano Ronaldo could not inspire Portugal to victory. At 41 years and 132 days, Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player ever to start a FIFA World Cup match.
The Portuguese captain had several opportunities to score but failed to convert. Clear chances in the 68th and 73rd minutes went begging, while Bruno Fernandes also missed a late opportunity to secure all three points.
Portugal thought they had regained the lead in the second half when João Cancelo produced a spectacular bicycle-kick finish. However, VAR ruled the goal out for offside.
Congo Score Historic First World Cup Goal
Congo's equalizer will remain a landmark moment in the nation's football history. The country, which previously appeared at the 1974 World Cup under the name Zaire, had never scored a goal on football's biggest stage.
After finding the net, Yoane Wissa described the goal as a dream moment for himself, his family and the people of Congo, who had waited more than five decades to see their team return to the World Cup.
Lionel Messi Fires Argentina To Victory Over Algeria
While Ronaldo struggled in Houston, Lionel Messi stole global headlines with a record-breaking performance for Argentina against Algeria.
The Argentine superstar scored all three goals in a commanding 3-0 victory, launching Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style.
The hat-trick came during Messi's 200th international appearance for Argentina, further cementing his place among football's all-time greats.
Messi Breaks Ronaldo's World Cup Hat-Trick Record
At 38 years and 357 days old, Lionel Messi became the oldest player in FIFA World Cup history to score a hat-trick. The achievement saw him surpass Cristiano Ronaldo's previous record, which was set during Portugal's famous 2018 World Cup clash against Spain.
Messi also became the oldest player ever to score both a brace and a hat-trick in a men's World Cup match.
How Messi Scored His Three Goals
First Goal: Long-Range Brilliance
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a thunderous strike from outside the penalty area following a quick free-kick routine orchestrated by Rodrigo De Paul.
Second Goal: Predatory Finish
His second goal arrived after Alexis Mac Allister's effort created a rebound inside the box, allowing Messi to calmly slot the ball home from close range.
Third Goal: Vintage Messi Magic
The Argentine captain completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute. After weaving through defenders with a trademark run, he curled a precise shot into the corner to seal a memorable victory.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi Dominates Headlines While Portugal Face Pressure
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 gathers pace, Lionel Messi has once again demonstrated why he remains one of football's greatest players. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal must quickly regroup after dropping points against an inspired Congo side.
The opening week of the tournament has already delivered records, surprises and unforgettable performances, setting the stage for a thrilling World Cup campaign.
For the latest FIFA World Cup 2026 news, football match reports, player records and global sports updates, visit The Tripura Post at https://thetripurapost.com.