local
Messi and Mbappé romping through World Cup with dazzling display of history-making goals
By Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC)
· June 23, 2026
· 4 min read
Lionel Messi has been mesmerizing. Kylian Mbappé has been, well, magnifique.Two of the biggest stars of the World Cup are setting records with history-making goals in a sizzling start that has even the most casual soccer fans in the U.S. taking notice.Messi has five goals in Argentina's first two...
Key takeaway Messi has five goals in Argentina's first two matches, setting the record for career World Cup goals with 18.
Why this matters in Magnolia News
For soccer fans in Magnolia , the thrilling performances of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the World Cup are a treat to watch. As these international stars break records and push each other to new heights, local enthusiasts are taking notice. The fact that Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, is still dominating the game at an advanced age is particularly inspiring to fans in the Houston area, where he competes in Major League Soccer. Meanwhile, Mbappé's speed and power are a reminder of the talented young players who come through the local soccer programs in Montgomery County. As Argentina and France move on to the elimination rounds, fans in Magnolia will be eagerly watching to see how these two soccer maestros continue to perform, and perhaps even drawing inspiration from their skills and dedication to the sport.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Magnolia News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Lionel Messi has been mesmerizing. Kylian Mbappé has been, well, magnifique.Two of the biggest stars of the World Cup are setting records with history-making goals in a sizzling start that has even the most casual soccer fans in the U.S. taking notice.Messi has five goals in Argentina's first two...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for Magnolia News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how Magnolia News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Magnolia News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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