Lionel Messi scored his first-ever World Cup hat-trick, matching the record for most goals in the tournament. The Argentine legend reminded the world that his story is far from over.

Tiny Cape Verde, ranked 65th in the FIFA rankings, held heavyweights Spain to a shock 0-0 draw. Spain, the tournament favorites, stumbled at the first hurdle.

Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo. Ronaldo's lackluster performance raised questions about whether he is past his prime.

Kylian Mbappe became France's all-time leading scorer, adding to his World Cup tally. He is now just two goals shy of the all-time World Cup record.

The biggest upset of the tournament so far: Spain's draw with Cape Verde. The Spanish side, ranked second in the world, failed to break down the underdogs.

DR Congo scored their first-ever World Cup goal and earned a draw against Portugal, sending a warning to other teams that underdogs are ready to compete.

Curacao, the smallest nation ever to play at a World Cup, lost 7-1 to Germany but Livano Comenencia's goal made the island proud.

Pink boots are trending at the World Cup, with players from various teams sporting vibrant fuchsia cleats from Nike, Adidas, and Puma.

Fans from Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland brought incredible energy to the stadiums, with Scottish supporters reportedly draining pubs of beer in Boston.

In Mexico, a domesticated duck named Merlin, wearing a tiny Mexico shirt, has become an unofficial mascot for the host nation's campaign.

Source: www.aljazeera.com