Kylian Mbappe Sets New World Cup Goalscoring Record, Surpassing Lionel Messi
Kylian Mbappe has broken Lionel Messi‘s all-time World Cup top goalscorer record after striking twice against England in the third place play-off of this year’s tournament.
The France No 10 left his mark on Bastille Day to nudge his total up to 22 goals across his career on football’s biggest stage, with 10 goals this summer, edging past Messi in the battle to win the golden boot.
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Mbappe has only required 22 games to match Messi’s historic record, compared to the Argentina legend’s 32 appearances, making it a record in itself. He maintains an astonishing average of 1.00 goal per game.
Starring across the 2018, 2022, and 2026 tournaments, including one victory and two final appearances, Mbappe continues to elevate his legacy for his country.
The 27-year-old has captained France in North America after earning elevation to the role under Didier Deschamps in 2023.
He surpassed Olivier Giroud as his nation’s leading scorer during this tournament despite a mixed season with Real Madrid, entering the World Cup under something of an injury cloud.
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His record may not remain for long, as Messi will have the chance to respond in the final against Spain, with the veteran looking to regain the crown and lead Argentina to back-to-back World Cups.
However, Mbappe is 12 years Messi’s junior, which could allow him to partake in two or three more tournament cycles.
