local
Messi and Mbappé romping through World Cup with dazzling display of history-making goals
By Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· June 23, 2026
· 1 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 Kylian Mbappé has been, well, magnifique.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
San Antonio soccer fans are likely taking notice of the World Cup's sizzling start, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé setting records with their history-making goals. As the city's own soccer community continues to grow, the performances of these international stars may inspire local players and fans alike. With Argentina and France already clinched in the elimination rounds, San Antonio's diverse community may be paying close attention to the tournament's progression, given the city's strong cultural ties to Latin America and Europe. As Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, defies age in a young man's game, local soccer enthusiasts may be wondering how his success could impact the sport's popularity in San Antonio, potentially drawing more fans to local matches and boosting interest in the city's own soccer programs.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio 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 KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 1 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 KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jim Vertuno, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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