local
Messi and Mbappé romping through World Cup with dazzling display of history-making goals
By Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / 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 The Pearland
For soccer fans in Pearland , the thrilling performances of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the World Cup have brought a surge of excitement to local watch parties and gatherings. As Argentina and France advance to the elimination rounds, Pearland residents are eagerly anticipating the next matches, with many likely to gather at local sports bars and restaurants to cheer on their favorite teams. The success of these soccer powerhouses may also inspire young players in Pearland's own soccer leagues, who look up to Messi and Mbappé as role models and strive to emulate their skills on the field. With Inter Miami, Messi's current team, being a relatively nearby presence, some Pearland fans may even have a personal connection to the Argentine superstar, further fueling their interest in the tournament. As the World Cup progresses, Pearland's soccer community is sure to remain enthralled by the dazzling displays of Messi and Mbappé.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Pearland 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 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / 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 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Pearland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Pearland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Pearland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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