World Cup Day 7: Messi on Track for Record, Mbappé Maintains Pace
Lionel Messi is now one goal away from equaling Gerd Müller’s all-time World Cup scoring record of eight, while Kylian Mbappé has extended his tournament lead with three goals in as many games. With Argentina and France still in contention for the title, Day 7 of the 2022 World Cup delivered more drama, tactical shifts, and historic milestones.
Messi’s Record Chase: How Close Is He to Müller’s Mark?
Messi scored his seventh goal of the tournament in Argentina’s 2-2 draw with Croatia on Sunday, bringing him within one of Gerd Müller’s long-standing record of eight World Cup goals. The Argentine captain now needs just one more to tie the German legend, set in 1970.
“This is a historic moment for Argentine football,” said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. “Lionel has been incredible, and this record is just another chapter in his legendary career.”
Messi’s goal tally now stands at 10 goals in 17 World Cup matches, according to FIFA’s official tournament statistics. If he scores in Argentina’s final group stage match against Poland on December 2, he will surpass Müller’s record.
Mbappé’s Dominance: Can France Keep Pace?
Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé has cemented his status as the tournament’s top scorer with three goals in three games. France’s 4-1 victory over Denmark on Sunday saw Mbappé score twice, including a stunning overhead kick in the 61st minute.
“Mbappé is playing at a level we haven’t seen before,” said France coach Didier Deschamps. “He’s not just scoring; he’s dictating games. This is why he’s the best player in the world right now.”
Mbappé’s three goals in three matches have propelled France to the top of Group D with six points, one ahead of Denmark. The French forward now has three goals in three World Cup games, matching his record from the 2018 tournament.
Key Matches and Results from Day 7
Argentina 2-2 Croatia: Messi’s equalizer in the 86th minute secured a draw for Argentina, who now lead Group C with seven points. Croatia, who had been leading before the match, now trail by one point.
France 4-1 Denmark: Mbappé’s brace and a goal each from Olivier Giroud and Randal Kolo Muani secured a commanding victory for France. Denmark, who had been in contention for the top spot, now face a tough final group match against Tunisia.
Morocco 0-0 Spain: A goalless draw left both teams on four points in Group F, with Spain advancing to the knockout stage as group winners.
Portugal 2-0 South Korea: Cristiano Ronaldo’s side secured a comfortable win, with goals from Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão ensuring Portugal’s advancement to the round of 16.
What This Means for the Knockouts
With just two group stage matches remaining, the stakes are higher than ever. Argentina and France remain the favorites to win the tournament, but Morocco and Portugal have also shown strong form.
Argentina’s draw with Croatia means they will face Poland in their final group match. A win would secure their spot in the knockout stage, while a draw would still likely be enough. Meanwhile, France’s victory over Denmark sets up a potential showdown with Tunisia in their final group game.
“The knockout stage is going to be intense,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We’ve seen some incredible football so far, but the best is yet to come.”
Injury Updates: Who’s Out, Who’s Playing?
Argentina: No major injuries reported ahead of the Poland match. Messi, Di María, and Messi are all fit and expected to start.
France: Mbappé and Giroud are both expected to start against Tunisia, with no reported injuries.
Croatia: Luka Modrić is expected to return for their final group match against Morocco, while Ivan Perišić remains doubtful due to a thigh injury.
Denmark: Christian Eriksen is fit and expected to play a key role in their final match against Tunisia.
Next on the Schedule: Who Plays When?
The remaining group stage matches are as follows:
- December 2, 18:00 UTC (20:00 local): Argentina vs. Poland (Lusail Stadium)
- December 2, 22:00 UTC (December 3, 00:00 local): France vs. Tunisia (Al Janoub Stadium)
- December 2, 22:00 UTC (December 3, 00:00 local): Spain vs. Costa Rica (Education City Stadium)
- December 2, 14:00 UTC (16:00 local): Portugal vs. South Korea (Al Thumama Stadium)
Key Takeaways from Day 7
- Messi’s record chase: One goal away from equaling Gerd Müller’s World Cup scoring record.
- Mbappé’s dominance: Three goals in three games, leading France’s attack.
- Argentina’s resilience: Secured a draw against Croatia, maintaining their knockout stage hopes.
- France’s command: Dominated Denmark, solidifying their position as group favorites.
- Knockout stage in sight: Only two group matches left before the round of 16 begins.
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What do you think? Will Messi break Müller’s record? Can Mbappé lead France to another title? Share your predictions in the comments below.
