Kylian Mbappé celebrates one of his two goals in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
France overcame a lengthy weather delay to defeat Iraq 3-0 and strengthen their position at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday night.
The Group stage match was suspended for more than two hours due to lightning activity near the stadium. Play was stopped at the end of the first half at 5:49pm local time and eventually resumed at 8:00pm.
Despite the interruption, France remained in control and secured a comfortable victory through a brace from captain Kylian Mbappe and a goal from Ousmane Dembele.
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Mbappe opened the scoring before the weather stoppage and added his second goal after play resumed. Dembele then wrapped up the win with his first-ever World Cup goal.
The result moved France onto six points from two matches and underlined their status as one of the favourites for the tournament.
Mbappe’s double was also a personal milestone. The 27-year-old now has 16 World Cup goals, leaving him just two short of the all-time record of 18 goals set earlier on Monday by Lionel Messi.
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France dominated throughout the contest, registering 16 shots compared to Iraq’s two, while the Asian side failed to record a shot on target.
Mbappe came close to completing his hat-trick late in the game but fired over the bar after breaking clear of the Iraq defence.
The victory extends France’s impressive start to the tournament as Didier Deschamps’ side continue their quest for another World Cup title, while Iraq face a difficult challenge to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Lionel Messi said he was “very angry” with himself for missing a penalty — and channelled it into scoring twice to make World Cup history on Monday. The Argentina captain hit a brace to give the holders a 2-0 win over Austria in Texas, his first goal making him the leading scorer ever at the World Cup with 17 goals. He added number 18 in second-half injury time to propel Argentina into the last 32. But it might have been even better for the player widely regarded as the best in the history of football, having dragged a weak penalty wide early on with the game at 0-0.
“Today there was a moment where I was very angry about the penalty because I missed and I struck it very badly,” said Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday. “Luckily we were able to turn the situation around, take the lead and take three very important points.”
For all his brilliance, Messi — who turns 39 on Wednesday — is surprisingly poor from the penalty spot by his standards. He also saw his spot-kick saved by Wojciech Szczesny in a 2-0 win over Poland at the 2022 World Cup, where Argentina went on to be champions, and missed at the 2018 tournament.
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Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami in the MLS, did not commit until late on to playing his sixth World Cup. He also came into the tournament under a small injury cloud over his hamstring. But he swiftly wiped away any doubts, scoring a hat-trick to dismantle Algeria 3-0 in Argentina’s opening match.
After fluffing his penalty, Messi swept home on 38 minutes to trigger pandemonium at the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Argentina failed to really build on that in the second half.
Austria, who beat debutants Jordan 3-1 last time out, proved stubborn opponents and even had a couple of glimpses at goal themselves before Messi’s second.
“A very hard victory, the truth is that we knew that it was going to be a match of great intensity,” said Messi. He added: “This World Cup is all very even games… no one gives anything away, today there was also a lot of intensity.”
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Argentina will go through as Group J winners if Jordan do not beat Algeria. The winners of Group J face the runners-up in Group H. Second in that group is currently Uruguay.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni could now choose to rest his talisman for the match against Jordan on Saturday. Messi said they want to go through with the maximum nine points. “We’re Argentina and we’re always going to look to win against any opponent,” he said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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This pick should come down to Peterson or Dybantsa. The Wizards can’t go wrong with either prospect. Like I’ve said for the last calendar year, I strongly believe that Peterson is the best player in the class. It might be a shocker to some if Peterson goes here, but I personally think he is a better fit in Washington than Utah.
The Jazz would have their vision fulfilled when Dybantsa arrived to the state of Utah as a high school senior at Utah Prep if he is available here. If Peterson is off the board, Dybantsa would be the most logical pick at 2. It’s hard to see Utah passing on him.
Boozer had one of the best one-and-done seasons in college basketball history at Duke and would add playmaking, rebounding and scoring to Memphis. Boozer has almost become underrated this draft cycle. He would be the clear-cut No. 1 pick in most draft classes.
The Bulls have the easiest decision to make on draft night. Whatever prospect of the “Big Four” is available, that’s the pick. Wilson to Chicago seems like one of the most likely pairings on draft night. Wilson has untapped potential on the offensive end of the floor and would add athleticism and defense to a franchise looking for a 1A-type player.
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Illinois
• Fr
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• 6’5″
/ 188 lbs
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PPG
17.9
RPG
5.1
APG
4.2
3P%
39.7%
For me, this is where the draft starts. The Clippers can swing the draft by taking any of the point guards projected in this range. In this mock, the Clippers take Wagler, who led Illinois to the Final Four as a freshman. This is also the spot where the first big trade of the night could happen if the Clippers are confident someone like Brayden Burries would be there in the later portion of the lottery.
Brown missed time at Louisville last season due to a back injury. If he’s healthy and the medicals are clean, he has a chance to be the best point guard in this draft. Brooklyn needs talent after having a lackluster draft despite making five first round picks last summer. Brown checks those boxes.
The worst kept secret in the NBA Draft is the Kings admiration for Acuff. Kings general manager Scott Perry coached his father in the 1990s when he was the coach at Eastern Kentucky. Acuff, in my opinion, is the best true point guard in the draft. He can be an offensive engine in the NBA. That’s exactly what Sacramento needs. There has been a lot of talk about Sacramento potentially trading up to secure Acuff. I’ll believe it when I see it.
The Hawks, in this scenario, will likely be deciding between Mara or Flemings. In this mock, the Hawks take Flemings, who can be an immediate two-way impact as a rookie.
Any of the players from Michigan’s frontcourt would be a natural fit with Dallas. The one that intrigues me the most is Mara going to the Mavericks. Yes, Dallas has a log-jam already at the center position with Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively III, but Mara’s fit with Dallas makes a ton of sense. Mara was one of the best shot blockers in college basketball and was the defensive anchor of Michigan’s national title team. He is a unique prospect because of his skill set as a 7-foot-3 big man without shoes. If he can develop as a shooter – or at least a threat as a pick-and-pop option, it would do wonders for his game.
In this mock draft, we projected Giannis to be traded to the Heat. The Bucks own this pick already and use it to draft Ament, who is one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in the class. Ament showed signs of improvement throughout his freshman season at Tennessee but there are question marks about his efficiency after shooting less than 40% from the field last season.
In my last mock draft, I had the Warriors taking Morez Johnson Jr. In this one, I have Golden State taking his frontcourt mate, Yaxel Lendeborg. Lendeborg, in my opinion, is a clear-cut top 10 player in the class. Yes, there are concerns about his draft age but he is exactly the kind of player Golden State should be targeting in the draft.
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Arizona
• Fr
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• 6’4″
/ 215 lbs
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PPG
16.1
RPG
4.9
APG
2.4
3P%
39.1%
The Thunder have an abundance of riches in their rotation. If the Thunder stick at No. 12, one option that makes sense is Burries. He is a versatile guard who can shoot, rebound and defend. That’s exactly the kind of player OKC tends to target.
Another trade! The Bucks use their second first-round pick (after trading Giannis away in this mock trade) to draft a center of the future. Steinbach has some of the best hands in college basketball and was a double-double machine during his time at Washington.
The Hornets appear to be in the center market this offseason. Although Johnson isn’t a center, he would add size and versatility to Charlotte’s frontcourt. Johnson exploits mismatches on offense and can guard multiple positions on the defensive end of the floor.
After playing just 41 minutes total last season at Tennessee, Carr transferred to Baylor, where he blossomed into the Bears’ leading scorer. He averaged 18.9 points on 49.4/37.4/80.1 shooting splits. His offensive upside is worth the swing here.
After taking a forward at pick No. 3, the Grizzlies take their point guard of the future. Anderson is one of the best shooters in the class. Sixty-five of Anderson’s 108 3-point shots were non-catch-and-shoot makes, which showcases his ability to create his own shot. This is a spot where you would imagine teams call Memphis to gauge a trade down opportunity.
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Karim Lopez
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PF
Mexico
• 6’8″
/ 222 lbs
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PPG
11.9
RPG
6.1
APG
2.0
3P%
32.6%
Lopez is the only International player I’ve had in all my mocks. The International class just isn’t as deep as previous seasons. Lopez’s draft range appears to be somewhere in the late lottery or the early 20s.
Philon’s stock boomed during his sophomore season at Alabama where he improved in almost every facet. After taking Johnson at 18, Charlotte adds one of the best point guards in the class just a few picks later.
Okorie is one player who will go higher than expected. He was one of the best scorers in college basketball, and his ability to attack the rim as a guard is special. The Raptors could be in the market for a big man, but taking the BPA also makes sense.
The biggest need for the Spurs heading into the offseason is finding a true 4 to play next to Victor Wembanyama. Peat would make sense in that regard. Although his jumper is a work in progress, he would be a great culture fit with the Spurs. Peat has been a winner at almost every stop in his basketball journey, which is exactly what San Antonio should be targeting.
Graves is an analytic darling. He didn’t post eye-popping numbers at Santa Clara, but his advanced numbers told a different story. He could’ve returned to college basketball and cashed in on a huge NIL payday. Instead, he will capitalize on the hype and stay in the draft. Graves should join Jalen Williams and Brandin Podziemski as the latest first-round pick to come out of Santa Clara in the last five drafts.
Peat is someone who has been connected to the 76ers throughout the draft cycle. If he’s off the board, I see the 76ers going BPA. Evans went from almost strictly a pure catch-and-shoot 3-point specialist at Duke during his freshman year to a legit No. 2 scoring option on the No. 1 overall seed in college basketball. Evans almost doubled the amount of 3-pointers he took from this year to last and still knocked them down at a 36.1% clip.
After taking Flemings at No. 8, Atlanta adds a big man who has untapped potential because of his frame, athleticism and motor. Cenac is going to be a very impactful player in the league if he lands in the right situation.
The reigning NBA champions could target a big man with this pick. However, one player who makes sense is Thomas. I could see him being a very valuable and impactful scorer off the bench for the Knicks as the franchise chases a repeat.
The Lakers biggest need heading into the offseason should be finding a center. If Quaintance is still on the board, that should be the pick. He is one of the most unique prospects in this class. After playing in just four games at Kentucky last season, his stock has taken a hit. Still, when healthy, he is one of the best defenders in the class.
I could see Swain going much higher than 26 on draft night because of how thin the wing class is. Swain was productive in his lone season at Texas and has the upside to be a two-way player in the NBA.
This is the first time Jefferson has cracked the first round of my mocks this cycle. The Iowa State big man is a very skilled passer and will be an impactful role player at the next level. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him land somewhere at the end of the first round or with the first few picks of the second.
Ejiofor has a strong case to go at the end of the first round. He was one of the best defenders in college basketball this past season. If Ejiofor doesn’t hear his name called at the end of the first, he will be one of the first five picks of the second round. After trading away Nic Claxton to Chicago, Brooklyn adds a solid depth piece at the end of the first round.
One of the point guards is bound to slide a bit on draft night. I could see that being Stirtz. The Iowa star has had an incredible rise from playing at the Division II level to being a likely first-round pick. This would be a BPA pick from the Cavs.
Reed had one of the most dominant NCAA Tournament runs of any big man in the modern era. He is a throwback big man who thrives in the post and causes havoc on the defensive end. He averaged a career-high 2.0 blocks per game in his final season of college basketball.
Chess grandmaster Eugene Torre and sports commissioner Bong Coo will headline Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum as they discuss two major sporting events scheduled in the coming months.
Torre, Asia’s first grandmaster, will be joined by Mapua Fil-Chi Alumni Association official Nelson Salazar to talk about the Eugene Torre Rapid Chess Cup, which will be held this weekend at Mapua University.
The 74-year-old Torre, widely regarded as a pioneer of Philippine chess, is a Mapua alumnus.
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Coo, considered the country’s most decorated athlete, will discuss preparations for this year’s Batang Pinoy, the national youth sports competition set for Bacolod City later this year.
Joining Coo at the forum are Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio and Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya, along with representatives from the Department of Education and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
The forum begins at 10:30 a.m. at the PSC Media Room and is presented by San Miguel Corporation, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO and ArenaPlus.
The session will be streamed live on the PSA Facebook page and aired on a delayed basis over Sports Radio 918. It will also be shared through the station’s official Facebook page.
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Mbappé closes in on Messi’s World Cup record after reaching 16 goals in historic run/ Image: AP
France captain scored twice against Iraq to move level with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, with only Lionel Messi now ahead of him on the all-time scoring chartsKylian Mbappe’s 100th appearance for France was already shaping up to be a memorable occasion before a lengthy weather delay interrupted proceedings in Philadelphia. By the time France completed a 3-0 victory over Iraq, the Real Madrid forward had transformed a milestone night into another significant chapter in World Cup history.The France captain scored twice as Didier Deschamps’ side secured qualification for the knockout stages in his 16th World Cup appearance, taking his World Cup tally to 16 goals and moving level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose for the second-highest total in tournament history. Only Lionel Messi now stands above him after the Argentina captain moved onto 18 World Cup goals earlier in the day against Austria.Mbappe’s latest scoring display also continued a remarkable trend that has accompanied his entire World Cup career. At 27, he has already established himself among the most prolific goalscorers the competition has ever seen and is rapidly closing in on records that once appeared untouchable.
Historic century cap begins with another World Cup milestone
The evening began with Mbappe making his 100th international appearance for France, becoming one of the youngest players ever to reach the landmark for Les Bleus.His first contribution arrived in the 14th minute when Michael Olise found him on the left side of the attack. Mbappe accelerated towards the Iraqi defence, cut inside and fired a powerful left-footed effort beyond Ahmed Basil at the near post.The strike carried enormous significance.Not only did it give France the lead, it moved Mbappe onto 15 World Cup goals and made him the fastest player in history to reach that figure. He achieved the milestone in just 16 World Cup appearances across the 2018, 2022 and 2026 tournaments.The goal also drew him level with Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario, one of the greatest goalscorers the tournament has ever produced.At that point, Mbappe’s World Cup record stood at 15 goals from only 16 matches, a scoring rate unmatched by any player who has reached similar territory on the all-time list.
Weather delay interrupts play before Mbappe strikes again
The match then entered the history books for another reason. A severe thunderstorm over Philadelphia forced FIFA to suspend the game at half-time, creating the first weather-related interruption of the 2026 World Cup. Players, officials and supporters were forced to seek shelter as lightning protocols triggered a delay lasting approximately 130 minutes.
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Iraq’s Hussein Ali, bottom, challenges France’s Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
When play eventually resumed, France immediately reasserted control.Nine minutes into the second half, Ousmane Dembele capitalised on uncertainty in the Iraqi defence and delivered a low ball across goal. Mbappe reacted quickest inside the six-yard area, steering the finish into the bottom corner for his second goal of the evening.That strike carried even greater historical weight than the first.By moving onto 16 World Cup goals, Mbappe drew level with Miroslav Klose, whose record had stood as the benchmark for modern World Cup goalscorers before Lionel Messi overtook him earlier in the tournament.
Only Messi remains ahead
The race at the summit of the World Cup scoring charts has rapidly evolved into a two-man pursuit involving football’s greatest active players.Messi entered Argentina’s match against Austria level with Klose before scoring to move clear on 17 goals and then extending the record further to 18.Mbappe’s brace against Iraq means the France captain now sits just two goals behind Messi despite having played significantly fewer World Cup matches.
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France’s Kylian Mbappe enters to the pitch prior to the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
The contrast between the two records is striking. Messi’s 18 goals have come across a FIFA-record six World Cups and 28 tournament appearances.Mbappe has already reached 16 goals in only 16 World Cup matches.With France already qualified for the knockout rounds and several matches potentially still ahead, the possibility of Mbappe further reducing the gap remains very real.
Dembele and Olise help France secure qualification
While Mbappe inevitably dominated the headlines, France’s victory was built upon strong performances elsewhere in the attack.Olise provided the assist for Mbappe’s opening goal before later releasing Dembele in transition for France’s third goal.Dembele marked his first goal at a major international tournament by driving past two defenders and firing a powerful finish into the far corner in the 66th minute.
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France’s Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
Together, the trio repeatedly stretched Iraq’s defensive structure and helped France finish with 19 shots, five efforts on target and 56 per cent possession.The result secured France’s place in the Round of 32 and set up a potentially decisive final group-stage meeting with Norway to determine who finishes top of Group I.
Where Mbappe now stands in World Cup history
Mbappe’s latest brace has dramatically reshaped the all-time World Cup scoring list.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi added another chapter to his remarkable career on Monday, becoming the outright highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history before scoring again to guide Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria in their Group J clash in Dallas.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner entered the match level with Germany great Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening game. His first goal against Austria, in the 39th minute, took him to 17 goals and moved him clear of Klose into sole possession of the record.
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Messi then added a second goal in stoppage time to take his World Cup tally to 18, extending his lead at the top of the all-time scoring charts and helping the defending champions secure a place in the Round of 32.
The historic night came after an eventful start. Argentina won a penalty in the seventh minute following a VAR review after Lautaro Martinez was brought down inside the box. Messi stepped up but sent his effort wide, missing the chance to break the record from the spot.
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Top goal scorers in FIFA World Cup history:
Rank
Player
Country
Goals
1
Lionel Messi
Argentina
18
1
Miroslav Klose
Germany
16
3
Ronaldo
Brazil
15
4
Kylian Mbappe
France
14
4
Gerd Muller
Germany
14
6
Just Fontaine
France
13
Record that stood for 12 years falls
Klose had held the World Cup scoring record since the 2014 tournament, when he surpassed Brazil legend Ronaldo’s tally of 15 goals.
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Messi drew level with the former Germany striker during Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, scoring all three goals for the defending champions.
Against Austria, the 39-year-old finally moved ahead of Klose when he converted Medina’s cross in the 39th minute. The goal made him the first player in men’s World Cup history to score 17 goals.
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His second goal in the 95th minute further strengthened his grip on the record, taking his tally to 18.
However, Messi could still face a challenge from France captain Kylian Mbappe, who has 14 World Cup goals at the age of 27. Mbappe scored twice against Senegal earlier in the tournament and remains the closest active player to Messi’s tally.
Another milestone in a glittering career
Messi’s latest achievement adds to a long list of records collected during a career spanning more than two decades.
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The Argentine captain won the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 and arrived in the United States, Canada and Mexico for what many believe could be his final appearance at the tournament.
Having already become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and the country’s most-capped player, Messi now stands alone as the leading scorer in World Cup history.
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Argentina continue title defence
Messi’s historic double came as Lionel Scaloni’s side secured a second successive victory in Group J following their opening 3-0 win over Algeria.
Austria pushed Argentina throughout the contest and created several chances of their own, but Messi’s goals in the 39th and 95th minutes proved decisive.
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The defending champions are aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully retain the FIFA World Cup title.
Lionel Messi’s goals in each FIFA World Cup edition:
This tally was only surpassed by one man. Lionel Messi, the player who has spent 15 years surpassing all of his contemporaries, scored a hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria.
He followed that triple with a brace against Austria in his second game. It was a real statement start from a man many believe is still the world’s best player. At this World Cup, it feels like there might only be one man who can keep up with him.
France have now booked their place in the last 32 of the World Cup (AP)
“Messi, it’s clear,” answered Mbappe when asked who was best out of himself, Messi, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland in the build-up to the game.
“For me, it’s not a question in my head,” he went on to explain, highlighting that the only thing that matters now is helping France to win a third World Cup. Anyone watching the action in Philadelphia would be forgiven for thinking slightly differently.
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Mbappe, himself fresh off becoming his country’s top all-time goalscorer after his brace against Senegal, was making his 100th appearance for Les Blues. But as soon as this match kicked off, it certainly felt like the all-time World Cup scoring record was also on his mind.
The France striker was on the front foot from the off, and it was strangely suitable that he was scythed down by Amir Al Ammari so cynically early on. Perhaps that is the only way to stop him.
Mbappe’s brace took him to 16 World Cup goals, a tally only bettered by Lionel Messi (Getty)
Mbappe’s early combinations with both Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele were an exciting reminder that this France squad possesses an unrivalled depth of attacking talent, and while they could not find the final ball early on, it was clear that they were here to make a statement.
For Mbappe specifically, some showmanship on the right wing suggested that he was in the mood to entertain, and he didn’t take long to deliver on that promise as he scored a superb opener.
Receiving the ball just outside the area, and with Iraq affording him far too much space, he needed no invitation to rifle a ferocious strike into the far corner past a helpless Ahmed Basil. It was ruthlessly efficient and made to look so easy, as if it had been scored in a YouTube video filmed during a training exercise.
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That was the only goal of the first half at the Philadelphia Stadium, and the action on the pitch gave way to action off it as a thunderstorm moved in, delaying the start of the second half by two hours as drenched fans packed the concourses and the seats emptied.
Mbappe’s opening goal was the 15th that he’s scored in World Cups (AP)
As the rain continued to hammer down, the storm circling around the Philadelphia Stadium at half-time felt like a suitable metaphor for Iraq. France were not going to lose their rhythm, and it was only going to get more difficult from here.
It was not long before Iraq conceded again. If the first goal had required remarkable skill, the second required almost none, with Ahmed Basil failing to control a simple pass before Dembele squared it for Mbappe to tap into an empty net. The Frenchman was not about to let the weather – or Messi – steal the show.
While the rain in Philly subsided, the France onslaught did not. Mbappe remained at the heart of things, showing some stunning touches in such difficult conditions and almost grabbing an assist as he took down a pass brilliantly before laying it off to Olise, whose sumptuous lob had Basil flailing before it bounced back off the crossbar.
Olise remained at the heart of things throughout, the orchestrator to Mbappe the finisher, and he had his moment late on, sliding a great pass into the path of Dembele, who lasered a low finish into the corner to seal the result.
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Dembele assisted Mbappe’s second and rounded off the result with a goal of his own (Getty)
Though they would be expected to win this game easily, France beat Iraq in a manner that was eye-catching in its ruthlessness and quality, in stark contrast to how teams such as Spain and Portugal have toiled against lesser sides at this tournament.
As always, Mbappe was at the forefront of it all, a constant threat against an admittedly weak Iraq side. But while some might argue that a group stage match against such opposition does not bring a lot of pressure for someone like Mbappe, a player of this calibre always takes to the pitch with a different weight of expectation.
The celebrations certainly suggested as much, with the Frenchman celebrating both his strikes with plenty of excitement. Nevertheless, it’s difficult to tell whether this reaction was him inadvertently admitting that he has an eye on the record that Messi shattered in his own spectacular week.
In any case, as he was brought down in the area after nutmegging a defender, and as he tried the audacious volley from a clipped pass late on, it was clear that Mbappe was enjoying himself once more on the world’s biggest stage.
Mbappe had chances to complete his hat-trick but could only fire wide and straight at Ahmed Basil (AP)
For all the criticisms of his club career so far, it’s undeniable that his World Cup exploits put him among the tournament’s greatest players. Despite his press conference comments, the 26-year-old seems set on reminding everyone that he is still one of the world’s top players, and scoring his 15th and 16th World Cup certainly goals went some way to doing so.
Indeed, despite all their talent, it feels like France will need Mbappe to deliver to the same levels he did in 2018 and 2022 if they are to win this tournament. Thankfully, although it’s early days, he looks set to do so.
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If 2018 was Mbappe launching himself to stardom, 2022 was a reminder of his world-beating talents. We do not yet know what 2026 will be, but if he can carry on this form, it could be the tournament that elevates him to the pantheon of the sport.
One analyst has a bone to pick with a specific region of golf fans following the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills this past week.
Golf Channel’s Eamon Lynch believes a golf major shouldn’t ever come across Long Island, New York again after seeing what unfolded at one of the country’s storied courses in Shinnecock Hills during the U.S. Open.
“Long Island golf fans re a stain on the game of golf,” Lynch said during a segment on Monday following Wyndham Clark’s second U.S. Open victory for his career.
Golf Channel commentator Eamon Lynch looks on during the second round of the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, Pa., on June 13, 2025.(Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
Lynch continued to unload on Long Islanders who attended the event, saying they “do not deserve” to see another major at any of its storied courses, including Bethpage Black, which hosted this past year’s Ryder Cup.
Clark was at the center of Lynch’s argument, as authorities had to kick patrons at Shinnecock Hills on Sunday out after heckling the U.S. Open’s leader. Fans were heard screaming, “Don’t choke Wyndham,” as well as, “Get in the bunker” during his final round.
“This isn’t a New York problem,” Lynch added. “It doesn’t happen at Winged Foot, doesn’t happen at Baltusrol on the other side of the Hudson River. It happens on Long Island every single time.”
As of now, the PGA of America has the PGA Championship set up for Bethpage Black in 2033.
At that very course, Rory McIlroy and other members of Team Europe were the subject of taunts and heckling that got in the way of the Ryder Cup this past summer. McIlroy was even seen stepping back from the ball to quip back at one of the hecklers, while others, including his friend Shane Lowry, were also quick to respond.
Then, during Team Europe’s victory run on American soil, McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, had a beer thrown at her while walking on the course.
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Rory McIlroy talks with Golfweek journalist Eamon Lynch during the pro-am before the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Golf Course in Orlando, Fla., on March 1, 2023.(Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
“I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf,” McIlroy said at the time. “I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week.”
While nothing of the sort was seen during the four rounds at the U.S. Open this past week, Lynch still believes Long Island golf fans have been too “repetitive” and “predictable” to allow high-stakes tournaments to be played there in the future.
“It’s the drunk crypto bros who buy a ticket with Daddy’s credit card,” Lynch said, even adding that some of the fans have been privileged in their lives to the point they’ve been “without ever being stopped for something they’ve said.”
“Maybe golf in its entirety needs to take the August National model,” he said. “No phones, no tolerance, no second chance.”
Shinnecock Hills saw Clark become somewhat of a villain among the crowd despite leading the pack throughout the tournament. He’s had a history of throwing clubs, and he notoriously was banned from Oakmont during the 2025 U.S. Open after damaging two lockers inside the clubhouse out of frustration. He’s no longer allowed on the property.
Wyndham Clark celebrates with his girlfriend Emily Tanner after winning the final round of the 126th U.S. Open Championship at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y., on June 21, 2026.(Tracy Wilcox/PGA Tour)
With Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announcing his resignation this morning and Andy Burnham as a possible successor, the fitness, health and wellness sector is evaluating its position.
Burnham understands the importance of physical activity and has been a strong advocate, so is this what the sector is waiting for?
In an interview with HCM’s sister publication, Sports Management, before the pandemic Burnham – as Mayor of Manchester – spoke about physical activity being a passion for him and his goal to get 75 per cent of people in Manchester physically activity by 2025.
He used his devolved power in Manchester to pivot GPs from a medical model to a social model, expanding their role to treat isolation and physical inactivity as aggressively as clinical symptoms.
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Under the Active Practices Charter, GP surgeries across Greater Manchester partnered with local leisure trusts to encourage GPs to connect patients with walking groups and local fitness sessions.
He also championed Parkrun and the Daily Mile in schools.
According to Sport England Active Lives data, 76.4 per cent of adults in Manchester exercise for at least 30 minutes a week, with 66.3 per cent meeting the WHO guidelines of 150 minutes. The smoking rate is also relatively low at 17 per cent.
“I’ve always had a simple belief that activity is good for people and also good for society,” said Burnham.
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“If physical activity was placed at the heart of primary care, we’d be in a different league in terms of health.
“Can we get to a point where exercise referral – linked to a full package of nutritional advice and counselling – is the default option as a starting point rather than us turning immediately to medication?”
Burnham has also argued that preventative healthcare cannot be mandated from Westerminster, but must be built from bottom-up leadership in local neighbourhoods.
UK Active CEO, Cameron Saunders, said on LinkedIn that he’s cautiously optimistic about what a Burnham government might be able to deliver:
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“Physical activity in primary care – Burnham has always believed exercise referral should be the default NHS offer, not an afterthought. As Mayor he pushed hard to embed it in Greater Manchester’s devolved health system. As PM, he’d have the levers to reform the GP contract – specifically the Quality Outcomes Framework – to incentivise activity referrals nationally; that’s a potential structural shift our sector has been waiting decades for.
“The Manchester Model, on a national scale. Burnham’s blueprint – Daily Mile in schools, social prescribing, active travel infrastructure, community-based provision – is proven. He’ll hopefully want to roll it out everywhere. For leisure operators, that means new commissioning frameworks, stronger referral pipelines and genuine integration with public health.
“Gyms as NHS delivery partners. He said it explicitly: gyms need to become the standardised, recognised exercise referral option that GPs can confidently prescribe to. That’s not a nice-to-have – it’s a policy architecture waiting to be built, delivered across public and private. Will he recognise it’a time to stop taxing prevention in order to fund cure?
“Prevention over prescription. Burnham has always been frustrated that the NHS reaches for medication before lifestyle intervention. Let’s hope a Burnham government would push hard on this – moving physical activity from the margins of health policy to the centre.
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“After “Two Year Kier” I’m cautiously optimistic about what a Burnham government might be able to deliver, you’ve got to live in hope, right?”
Oct 6, 2024; London, United Kingdom; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in the first half at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Steelers are sorting through a mess of their own making with Mike McCarthy at HC and Aaron Rodgers at QB. These two are going to collect headlines whether there’s success (unlikely) or failure (more likely).
Pretty quietly, the team has been collecting ex-Vikings players, too.
Pittsburgh’s official social media passed along word of adding WR Joaquin Davis. He’s a tall and super fast depth receiver who got shown the door after GM Nolan Teasley took over (signing some Seattle talent was deemed more desirable). Davis will be looking to prove helpful to McCarthy & Rodgers as he tries to secure long-term employment in The Steel City.
Doing so meant reuniting with Rodgers, both of whom played in Green Bay. Where Tonyan differentiates himself from Rodgers is that the TE wanted to play in the Twin Cities, leading to an opportunity to do so. Meanwhile, Rodgers desired to do so but the Vikings (mercifully) opted against the option. Given how things unfolded in 2025, signing Rodgers for a single season may have been the better move had the only criteria been on-field competence.
The wild part in the broader conversation is that Davis and Tonyan are far from alone when it comes to former Vikings getting a chance over in Pittsburgh.
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Aug 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Joaquin Davis (80) pulls in the ball in the second half against the Arizona Cardinals bat Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Consider some of the former Vikings putting in work for the Steelers:
DL Esezi Otomewo
DL Dean Lowry
LB Jamin Davis
TE Robert Tonyan
WR Joaquin Davis
OL Doug Nester
As it relates to Davis specifically, a spot on the 53-man roster always appeared difficult. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jauan Jennings aren’t going anywhere. Securing a spot as the WR4 or WR5 was going to be supremely difficult.
Standing at 6’4″ and running a forty in the 4.3 range is always going to attract attention in the NFL. Davis, predictably, has been getting chances. Rodgers isn’t the deep-ball assassin that he once was but he’s still above average. Maybe Davis can prove helpful.
Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) runs against Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback James Pierre (42) during the second half of an AFC Wild Card Round game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images.
Considering the situation from the other direction — ex-Steelers putting in work as Vikings — means considering a more modest list. Most notable, perhaps, is corner James Pierre. He’s joined by d-lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk.
Prior to becoming the DC in Minnesota, Brian Flores was the world’s most overqualified linebacker coach with Mike Tomlin’s Steelers.
Since the Vikings and the Steelers play in opposite conferences, a Super Bowl battle is a possibility. Seeing that incredibly unlikely matchup take place would mean seeing some ex-Vikings trying to get revenge on football’s biggest stage.
LoLdle answers for June 23, 2026 are finally revealed for fans who got stuck today. Puzzle iteration 1447 can be quite a hassle if players are not familiar with all of the characters and their aspects. That said, those actively grinding LoL should be able to decipher the clues by following the hints correctly.
Nevertheless, here is the Quote puzzle in the 1447th entry of LoLdle:
“Peace, no matter the cost.”
All League of Legends LoLdle answers 1447th edition (June 23, 2026)
New temporary game mode: Worlds Mayhem 🏆 Build your dream roster. Simulate a Worlds run. Can your team become Worlds Champions? Play it now on Inspired by the awesome 82-0 game.
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The League of Legends LoLdle answers for June 23 are shown below:
Classic: Lillia
Quote: Karma
Ability: Bel’Veth; Bonus: W (Above and Below)
Emoji: Naafiri
SplashArt: Cho’Gath;Bonus: Shan Hai Scrolls Cho’Gath
The Classic answer for June 23’s LoLdle is Lillia. Next, the Quote puzzle points to Karma, who is also one of the better and more feasible choices in the support role in the current League of Legends meta.
Next, the Ability clue refers to Bel’Veth’s W ability named “AboveandBelow.” The Emoji puzzle, on the other hand, indicates Naafiri and her characteristics. Lastly, the Splash Art puzzle wraps up by including Cho’Gath’s Shan Hai Scrolls skin.
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