Lionel Messi has equaled the all-time FIFA World Cup goalscoring record after delivering a stunning hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria, marking the opening of the 2026 tournament. With this remarkable performance, Messi’s World Cup goal tally has reached 16, tying him with Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who set the record years ago.
As the tournament progresses, Messi stands as the frontrunner to claim the title of the highest goalscorer in World Cup history. Still, he faces stiff competition from France’s Kylian Mbappé. The French star scored twice in his team’s debut victory over Senegal, bringing his total to 14 World Cup goals, which he achieved in just 15 appearances—an impressive feat that underscores his scoring prowess.
Messi has played a total of 27 World Cup matches to reach Klose’s record, whereas Mbappé remains poised to challenge for the top spot as the tournament continues. The race for the record adds a riveting subplot to the World Cup narrative, with both players showcasing exceptional talent and determination on the world stage.
The all-time World Cup scoring list is adorned with legendary players like Brazil’s Ronaldo, who scored 15 goals, Gerd Müller with 14, Just Fontaine with 13, and icons like Pelé, Gabriel Batistuta, and Harry Kane, each with 10 goals. As Messi and Mbappé vie for the record, they join these illustrious names in the annals of football history.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup unfolds, the competition between Messi and Mbappé for the prestigious goalscoring record promises to be one of the tournament’s most thrilling storylines. With Messi on the brink of making history and Mbappé aiming to usher in a new era atop the scoring charts, fans worldwide will be keenly watching to see who will emerge as the ultimate goal-scoring legend.