Kylian Mbappé is closing in on Lionel Messi’s FIFA World Cup goal record after another brilliant performance for France.
The French captain scored twice as France defeated Iraq 3-0 in their FIFA World Cup match, strengthening his standing among the greatest goalscorers in World Cup history. His latest goals moved him level with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, while Messi remains ahead with 18.
Mbappé has already established an outstanding World Cup legacy. From his breakthrough at the 2018 FIFA World Cup to his unforgettable hat-trick in the 2022 final against Argentina, the French forward has become one of the most dangerous players in the tournament’s history.
The big question now is whether Mbappé can overtake Messi before the tournament ends. With France still in the competition and Mbappé in strong scoring form, the race for the all-time FIFA World Cup goals record is becoming one of the biggest stories of the tournament.
All-Time FIFA World Cup Top Scorers
- Lionel Messi — 18 goals
- Kylian Mbappé — 16 goals
- Miroslav Klose — 16 goals
- Ronaldo Nazário — 15 goals
- Gerd Müller — 14 goals
Mbappé’s consistency on the biggest stage has placed him among football’s greatest forwards. At his current rate, he has a strong chance of becoming the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
For now, Messi leads the race, but Mbappé is closing the gap.
Can Kylian Mbappé overtake Lionel Messi to become the greatest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history?