How far behind is Mbappé? Messi still tops all-time World Cup table

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Radio Gol

·1. Juli 2026

How far behind is Mbappé? Messi still tops all-time World Cup table

The tournament kicked off with Messi surpassing German Miroslav Klose’s record of 16. The Rosario-born star scored against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, reaching 19 goals in 29 matches played. Mbappé, meanwhile, was right there too: he bagged braces against Senegal, Iraq, and Sweden in the Round of 32. With that, the Frenchman reached 18 goals in just 18 matches played. He’s only one strike away from tying Leo and two from overtaking him outright.

The key detail here is age: since Mbappé is 27, it’s almost certain he’ll play a couple more World Cups and keep finding the net, while Messi is nearing the end of his career. Even so, the No. 10 is never satisfied and will look to extend the lead in what remains of the tournament.