Kylian Mbappe Closes In on Lionel Messi's World Cup Goals Record After Sweden Brace

July 01, 2026: Kylian Mbappe has once again proved why the FIFA World Cup is his favourite stage. Every time the tournament arrives, the French superstar seems to reach another level, producing goals, records, and unforgettable performances.

The 27-year-old announced himself to the world by helping France win the 2018 FIFA World Cup, scoring four goals during the title-winning campaign. Four years later, although France fell short in the final against Argentina, Mbappe delivered one of the greatest individual World Cup performances in history. He finished as the tournament's top scorer with eight goals, including a memorable hat-trick in the final.

Now, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbappe appears determined to surpass even those remarkable achievements.

Mbappe Continues Stunning World Cup Goal-Scoring Run

Mbappe scored twice in France's 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32 in New Jersey, taking his tally to six goals in just four matches at this year's tournament.

Earlier in the competition, the French captain netted two goals against Senegal and followed it up with another brace against Iraq during the group stage. His sensational form has lifted his overall World Cup tally to 18 goals in only 18 appearances.

With six goals, Mbappe is now level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although the Argentine captain has played one more match.

Only Lionel Messi Stands Above Mbappe

Mbappe's latest brace also saw him move into sole possession of second place on the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring charts. He overtook Germany legend Miroslav Klose, who finished his career with 16 World Cup goals.

Only Lionel Messi now stands ahead of the French forward with 19 goals. While Messi needed 26 World Cup appearances to reach that mark, Mbappe has already scored 18 goals in just 18 matches, underlining his extraordinary efficiency on football's biggest stage.

With France still alive in the tournament, Mbappe has a realistic chance of breaking Messi's record before the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to an end. As the knockout rounds progress, the battle between two of football's greatest icons is becoming one of the tournament's most compelling storylines.

Highest Goalscorers in FIFA World Cup History