The Best of the Best Deliver! Mbappe, Messi, Haaland on Fire! Day 12 World Cup Wrap

Photo: Tullio Puglia/FIFA/Getty Images

The match of the day lived up to expectations as Norway edged Senegal 3-2 in a five-goal classic.

Many tipped these two nations as potential dark horses before the tournament, and they showed exactly why in an entertaining contest filled with attacking football and momentum swings.

As expected, Erling Haaland was the difference-maker.

The Manchester City superstar once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most feared strikers in world football, finding the net and causing problems for Senegal's defence throughout the evening, but hit his strides in the second half.

Despite the defeat, Senegal showed plenty of quality and remain a dangerous side capable of causing problems if they reach the knockout rounds. Ismaila Sarr delivered again with 2 goals.

For Norway, however, this felt like a statement victory.

France made it two wins from two matches in a weather effected match, with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iraq.

Didier Deschamps' side controlled proceedings from the outset and rarely looked troubled as they strengthened their position at the top of Group I.

While Kylian Mbappe; who moves to second in the all time World Cup goals tally, naturally attracts most of the attention, France's depth continues to impress. Their midfield dictated the tempo while their attacking unit consistently found space in dangerous areas.

The 2022 finalists have quietly gone about their business so far, but they are beginning to look increasingly difficult to stop.

With six points from six available, France are the favourites to lift the trophy at the moment.

Argentina continued their strong start with a professional 2-0 victory over Austria.

Lionel Scaloni's side were not required to hit top gear but once again showcased the qualities that make them genuine contenders for another World Cup crown.

Solid defensively, patient in possession and clinical when opportunities arrived, Argentina controlled large periods of the match and never appeared in serious danger.

The reigning world champions have now won both group matches while barely breaking stride. The greatest of all time stepped up yet again, and despite a penalty miss, scored both goals for the reigning champions.

These 2 goals puts Lionel Messi, alone at the top of the all time scorers list in World Cups.

Algeria boosted their hopes of reaching the Round of 32 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Jordan.

The Desert Foxes knew anything less than three points would significantly complicate their qualification hopes, and they delivered when it mattered most.

One of the standout performers was rising star Ibrahim Maza, who continues to grow in influence with every appearance. The Bayer Leverkusen youngster is rapidly establishing himself as one of the breakout players of the tournament.

The Algerian attack again showed why they could be a threat to many teams. They still have another gear in them, but a big 3 points today against a solid Jordan side will spur them on to better things they hope.

The victory leaves Algeria well placed heading into their final group fixture and keeps alive hopes of a deep run.