Messi the GOAT shines, new stars emerge

Written by: RONEIL WALCOTT

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is only 11 days old, but it has already produced the kind of drama, brilliance and surprise that makes football's biggest tournament so captivating. From Lionel Messi continuing to rewrite the record books to unlikely heroes from some of the world's smallest footballing nations, fans have been treated to a spectacle that promises plenty more excitement in the weeks ahead.

Widely regarded as football's GOAT (Greatest of All Time), Messi once again demonstrated why he holds that title. The Argentine maestro scored a hat-trick in his country's opening match against Algeria, taking his World Cup tally to 16 goals and drawing level with Germany's Miroslav Klose as the tournament's all-time leading scorer. At 39, Messi continues to defy age and expectations, while also setting up what could become one of the defining storylines of the competition.

France's Kylian Mbappé appears determined to challenge Messi for both goals and glory. The French superstar netted twice in a 3-1 victory over Senegal to move his World Cup total to 14 goals. With both players in sparkling form, football fans around the globe will be eagerly watching to see who finishes the tournament atop the scoring charts.

 Argentina superstar Lionel Messi celebrates during his hat-trick display against Algeria at the 2026 Fifa World Cup. Photo courtesy Fifa.

While the game's biggest stars have delivered, some of the tournament's most memorable moments have come from less-heralded names. Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha captured international attention when the 40-year-old helped the World Cup debutants secure a remarkable goalless draw against tournament favourites Spain. His performance quickly became one of the stories of the opening week.

Not to be outdone, Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room produced a display that may go down as one of the finest goalkeeping performances in World Cup history. The 37-year-old made 15 saves in a scoreless draw against Ecuador, earning Curaçao their first-ever World Cup point. The achievement was made even more impressive considering it came just days after the Caribbean side suffered a humbling 7-1 defeat to Germany.

Elsewhere, co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to secure passage to the Round of 32 following a tense 1-0 victory over Korea Republic. The United States soon joined them after defeating Australia 2-0, while Germany also advanced thanks to a dramatic comeback victory over Côte d'Ivoire inspired by a brace from substitute Deniz Undav.

 Canada hat-trick hero Jonathan David points to the heavens during his team's 6-0 thumping of Qatar at the 2026 Fifa World Cup. Photo courtesy Fifa .

Back home, football excitement remains high as the Success Laventille Champions League moves into its semifinal stage. Blanco Ballers defeated LRCC 4-2, while Ballers FC came from behind to upset Young Stars 2-1, setting up an intriguing semifinal clash between the two sides.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago's athletes continued to impress on the track. Leah Bertrand successfully defended her women's 100-metre title at the NAAA Open Championships, while Omari Lewis retained his status as the country's sprint king in the men's event.

West Indies women's team captain Hayley Matthews (right) celebrates with wicket-keeper Shemaine Campbelle during their team's International Cricket Council T20 World Cup win over Sri Lanka. Photo courtesy Windies Cricket .

With the World Cup dominating headlines, it would be easy to overlook the West Indies women, who continue to build momentum at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Their latest victory over Sri Lanka strengthened their push for a semifinal berth and added another bright spot to an already action-packed sporting week.