Good morning and welcome back to ABC Sport’s online coverage of the 2026 World Cup.
Yesterday, Lionel Messi rolled back the years to score a maiden and quite remarkable tournament hat-trick against Algeria.
This morning, arch-rival and fellow 21st century titan Cristiano Ronaldo begins what will surely be his final World Cup.
The 41-year-old, still desperate for global glory, starts up front for Portugal, who take on DR Congo in Houston.
Then, we’re staying in Texas as England and Croatia lock horns in a mouthwatering opening to Group L in Dallas.
Ghana and Panama face off in Toronto after that, before Uzbekistan and Colombia become the tournament’s final two teams to get their campaigns underway.
We have another massive day ahead of us.
My name’s Henry and I can’t wait to guide you through the first half of the day’s action.
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