Kylian Mbappé's World Cup Goal Record: How He Compares to Lionel Messi

Kylian Mbappé’s World Cup Goal Tally

Kylian Mbappé has been a dominant figure for France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Through four matches, he has netted six of France's 13 goals. This striking performance has positioned Didier Deschamps' team as strong contenders to lift the trophy once again.

Mbappé is closing in on Lionel Messi's all-time World Cup scoring record. The Real Madrid star currently holds the top spot with 20 goals, while Mbappé sits just two behind with 18. Messi, playing in what is likely his last World Cup, could see his record challenged or surpassed during this tournament.

"I don’t think about it that way," Mbappé said after France's previous match when questioned about breaking the record. "Of course, I know all the stats and what people are saying – I watch TV, too – but I think only about how I can help my team, to be here once more on July 19 for the final."

Current Stats and Rankings

Heading into the round-of-16 match against Paraguay, Mbappé holds 18 career World Cup goals. His six goals in the 2026 edition rank him second among the tournament's top scorers, trailing only Messi.

In knockout stages alone, Mbappé has scored 10 goals—the highest tally for any player in World Cup history during those rounds. He added two goals in France’s 2026 round-of-32 victory over Sweden at MetLife Stadium.

Top World Cup Scorers in History

Mbappé’s pursuit of Messi’s record adds an exciting subplot to the 2026 World Cup. Whether he surpasses it this year or later, his performances already place him among the greatest scorers in the tournament’s history.