Also Read Bengali | মেসির জোড়া গোলে উড়ল অস্ট্রিয়া, বিশ্বকাপে গড়লেন নতুন রেকর্ড

The defending world champions started on the front foot and controlled possession from the opening whistle. Argentina earned a penalty inside the first quarter of the match after a foul by an Austrian defender. However, Messi failed to convert from the spot, allowing Austria to stay in the contest.

Despite the missed opportunity, Argentina continued to pile on the pressure. Austria attempted to respond through Michael Gregoritsch and Paul Wanner, but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Argentine defence.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 37th minute. Defender Facundo Medina delivered a precise pass into the box and Messi produced a clinical finish to beat the goalkeeper and hand Argentina a deserved 1-0 lead. The goal ensured the South Americans went into the halftime break with an advantage.

Argentina maintained their attacking intent after the restart. Messi thought he had doubled the lead in the 50th minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside. A few minutes later, Austria received a golden opportunity to get back into the game but failed to capitalise.

In the 73rd minute, Messi created another chance from a corner, only for Nico Gonzalez to miss the target with his header. Argentina continued to dominate proceedings and eventually sealed the victory deep into stoppage time.

Launching a swift counter-attack, Messi produced a trademark finish to score his second goal of the night and put the result beyond doubt. The strike not only secured all three points for Argentina but also saw the legendary forward register another remarkable World Cup record.

With two wins from two matches, Argentina are now firmly on course for a place in the knockout stages. Austria, meanwhile, face a difficult challenge after suffering their second defeat of the tournament.

Once again, Lionel Messi proved why he remains one of football’s greatest-ever players. His match-winning performance has strengthened Argentina’s hopes of successfully defending their World Cup crown.

Read বাংলা: মহাকাশে ফুটবল! বিশ্বকাপের বল নিয়ে অভিনব গবেষণায় নভোশ্চররা

But can sports be played in space? More specifically, can a game as popular as football function in a zero-gravity environment?

To find answers, astronauts aboard the ISS have begun a unique experiment involving the official match ball of the FIFA World Cup 2026, named TriOnda. The innovative project aims to study how a football behaves in microgravity and whether the laws governing the sport on Earth change in space.

Recently, NASA released a video on social media showing four astronauts, two men and two women, conducting a series of tests with the World Cup ball. Floating inside the ISS, they kicked and passed the ball while observing its movement, speed and trajectory.

Read More: FIFA World Cup: Netherlands Thrash Sweden 5-1 to Storm Top of Group

Unlike on Earth, where gravity dictates the path of a football, the near weightless environment of space produces entirely different results. The footage shows the ball moving much more slowly and taking longer to travel even short distances. With gravity having minimal influence, the ball’s balance, rotation and overall behaviour differ significantly from what players experience on a football pitch.

Scientists hope the experiment will provide valuable insights into how objects move in microgravity. Researchers are particularly interested in understanding changes in speed, spin and direction, and whether these findings could contribute to future developments in sports science and physics.

The project could also have practical implications for long-term human habitation in space. As missions become longer and future space stations or lunar bases become reality, recreational activities and sports may play an important role in maintaining physical and mental well-being.

The spotlight is also firmly on the TriOnda ball itself. Designed by Adidas, the ball celebrates the three host nations of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — the United States, Mexico and Canada. The name combines “Tri,” representing the three countries, and “Onda,” meaning wave, symbolising the unity of the tournament hosts.

Its design features red, green and blue colours inspired by the national identities of the three countries. Beyond aesthetics, the ball incorporates advanced technology, including embedded sensors capable of collecting data related to movement, touch and speed.

As detailed research on the ball’s performance in space continues, scientists believe the findings could contribute not only to future space missions but also to the evolution of football technology on Earth.

By bringing together the worlds of football and space science, the experiment has already captured global attention, proving that even the beautiful game can find a place among the stars.

বাংলায় পড়ুন:  টিউনিশিয়াকে উড়িয়ে জাপানের প্রথম জয়, দাপট দেখাল উয়েদা-কামাদা

The Blue Samurai were in complete control throughout the contest, with Ayase Ueda scoring twice, while Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also found the net.

The victory moves Japan into second place in the group standings, level on points with the Netherlands but behind the Dutch side on goal difference.

Japan made a dream start, breaking the deadlock within the opening four minutes. Midfielder Daichi Kamada finished off a swift attacking move to put the Asian side ahead and immediately set the tone for the match.

After conceding early, Tunisia adopted a more defensive approach, hoping to contain Japan’s attacking threat. However, Moriyasu’s men continued to dominate possession and create chances.

Their pressure paid off again early in the third quarter of the match when Ayase Ueda doubled Japan’s advantage. The striker’s clinical finish gave his side a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into halftime.

Tunisia attempted to mount a response after the break and enjoyed brief spells of attacking momentum, but they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against Japan’s well-organised defence.

Instead, it was Japan who continued to find openings. In the 69th minute, Junya Ito added a third goal to effectively end the contest. Ueda then completed his brace in the 83rd minute, scoring Japan’s fourth goal of the evening and capping off a superb individual performance.

Japan’s pace, movement, and attacking intensity proved far too much for Tunisia to handle. The African side looked increasingly overwhelmed as the match progressed and had no answer to the relentless pressure from the Blue Samurai.

The comprehensive victory not only gives Japan their first three points of the tournament but also significantly boosts their chances of reaching the knockout stage. With confidence growing and their attack firing on all cylinders, Moriyasu’s side will head into their next group match full of belief.

For Tunisia, meanwhile, the heavy defeat leaves them with plenty of questions to answer as they fight to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Read Bengali: FIFA World Cup: আইভরি কোস্টের বিরুদ্ধে রুদ্ধশ্বাস জয় জার্মানির

The hero of the night was Deniz Undav, who scored both goals for Germany. Yannick Kessié had earlier given Ivory Coast the lead, but the Germans showed their resilience to complete a thrilling comeback.

Germany started brightly and dominated possession from the opening minutes. Jamal Musiala came close to opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a powerful effort that narrowly missed the target. Three minutes later, Aleksandar Pavlovic thought he had put Germany ahead from a corner, but the goal was ruled out for a foul.

Despite Germany’s attacking pressure, Ivory Coast remained dangerous on the counterattack. Their breakthrough arrived in the 30th minute when Yannick Kessié finished clinically to put the West African side ahead against the run of play.

The goal stunned Germany, but Ivory Coast continued to threaten. Yohan Bony nearly doubled the advantage in the 38th minute, forcing veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer into an important save. At the other end, Kai Havertz found the net moments later, only for the effort to be disallowed for offside.

Germany increased the intensity after the break as they searched for an equaliser. Their persistence finally paid off in the 68th minute when Deniz Undav brilliantly outmaneuvered the Ivorian defence and slotted home to make it 1-1.

With both teams pushing for a winner, the match appeared destined for a draw. However, Germany had other plans.

After six minutes of stoppage time were added, the decisive moment arrived in the 94th minute. Kalu Nmecha delivered a perfectly weighted assist for Undav, who calmly finished to complete his brace and send the German fans into celebration.

The late strike sealed a hard-fought 2-1 victory and maintained Germany’s perfect record in the tournament so far. While the Germans moved a step closer to the knockout stages, Ivory Coast were left heartbroken after producing a brave performance that ultimately yielded no reward.

Nagelsmann’s men may have secured the three points, but the match also exposed areas they will need to improve as the competition enters its decisive phase.

Also Read Bengali |  কমলা ঝড়ে বিধ্বস্ত সুইডেন, পাঁচ গোলের দাপটে শীর্ষে নেদারল্যান্ডস

Having failed to go all the way in the previous World Cup despite impressive performances, the Dutch entered this tournament determined to make a stronger push. Their intent was evident from the opening whistle against Sweden.

The star of the night was Brian Brobbey, who scored twice to put the Oranje firmly in control. Cody Gakpo also found the net, while Crysencio Summerville added another goal as the Dutch attack overwhelmed the Swedish defence. Sweden’s lone response came through Anthony Elanga, but it proved little more than a consolation.

The Netherlands took the lead early in the first quarter through Brobbey, who finished confidently after a flowing attacking move. The striker doubled the advantage early in the second quarter, giving the Dutch a comfortable two-goal cushion heading into halftime.

The attacking pressure continued after the break. Gakpo extended the lead with a clinical finish before adding another goal minutes later as Sweden struggled to contain the Dutch frontline.

Although Elanga briefly reduced the deficit for Sweden and offered a glimmer of hope, the comeback never materialised. Summerville then delivered the final blow, sealing an emphatic 5-1 victory and ensuring the Netherlands collected all three points in style.

The result lifts Virgil van Dijk and his teammates to the top of the group standings, strengthening their chances of reaching the knockout stages. Sweden remain in contention but now face increased pressure in their remaining group matches.

After their opening draw against Japan, this commanding win sends a clear message that the Netherlands are once again emerging as serious contenders on football’s biggest stage.

Also Read Bengali | ব্রাজিলের বিশ্বকাপ ঘাঁটি যেন ফুটবলের ফাইভ-স্টার শহর, কী আছে কলম্বিয়া পার্কে?

Built and operated by Red Bull primarily for New York Red Bulls, this world-class complex offers everything a modern football team could ask for.

Spread across nearly 80 acres, Columbia Park features eight full-sized football pitches, including five natural grass fields and three artificial turf pitches. To combat New Jersey’s harsh winter conditions, several fields are equipped with advanced underground heating systems that prevent snow and ice from disrupting training schedules. As a result, the pitches remain playable throughout most of the year.

Before the tournament, participating nations were presented with several potential training bases by local organizers. However, after personally inspecting the facility, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti reportedly selected Columbia Park without hesitation. The combination of elite infrastructure, professional training conditions, and player-focused amenities made it the ideal choice.

The facility boasts modern dressing rooms, with separate sections for home and visiting teams. Beyond standard training requirements, Columbia Park is designed to maximize player performance and recovery. Alongside a fully equipped gymnasium, the complex includes a specialized rehabilitation center dedicated to physiotherapy and injury recovery.

One of the standout attractions is the 5,000-square-foot wellness laboratory, where cutting-edge technology is used to monitor players’ fitness levels, physical condition, and overall performance. The facility also houses multiple swimming pools used for hydrotherapy and recovery sessions, helping athletes recover more effectively after intense training.

Tactical preparation is equally well catered for. A dedicated audio-visual theatre allows coaches and players to conduct video analysis sessions, review match footage, and discuss tactical strategies. In addition, modern conference rooms are available for team meetings, coaching workshops, and media interactions.

Brazilian stars such as Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and their teammates are currently using the facility to prepare for their World Cup matches. Reports suggest that several other participating nations also expressed interest in securing Columbia Park as their tournament headquarters, but Brazil moved quickly to lock in the venue.

While Major League Soccer (MLS) may not yet match Europe’s biggest leagues in terms of global prestige, facilities like Columbia Park demonstrate how far football infrastructure in the United States has progressed. Combining advanced sports science, elite training resources, and comprehensive player care, the complex represents the highest standards of modern football development.

It is no surprise, therefore, that one of world football’s greatest powers has chosen Columbia Park as the foundation of its World Cup campaign.

Meet & Greet and Virtual Statue Unveiling

The day kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday with a Meet & Greet event. From 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., the virtual unveiling of LM10’s statue will take place. Following that, he will head to the Youth Stadium, where stars will be arriving one after another:

11:30 a.m.: Shah Rukh Khan

12:00 p.m.: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

Legendary cricketer Sourav Ganguly will also be present

A special session of football, celebrity interaction, and felicitation will run from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. After that, Messi will head to the airport and fly to Hyderabad at 2:00 p.m. In all, it will be just 12.5 hours – but an emotionally charged visit.

Unprecedented Security Arrangements

With the presence of the Chief Minister, Shah Rukh Khan, and Sourav Ganguly, security measures are being taken to the highest level. Around 2,000 police personnel will be deployed under the leadership of the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate. Inspectors, SIs, and constables from various parts of the city will be on duty, alongside the RAF. Strict traffic control and special parking guidelines have been prepared.

The city has seen legends like Pelé, Maradona, and Messi before, yet the excitement of his return is unique. The young talent of 2011 has now become a legend. Once again, Kolkata will witness history, and the city will rediscover itself amid the frenzy of Messi mania.