Lionel Messi has equaled the all-time FIFA World Cup goalscoring record by scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria, marking the opening of the 2026 tournament. This impressive three-goal feat brings Messi’s total World Cup goals to 16, putting him on par with the record held by Germany’s Miroslav Klose.
With several games still ahead, Messi is poised to secure his place as the highest goalscorer in World Cup history. However, he faces stiff competition from France’s Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice in his team’s opening victory against Senegal, boosting his World Cup tally to 14 goals. Mbappé’s achievement is even more remarkable as he reached this number in just 15 World Cup matches, demonstrating his exceptional scoring efficiency.
In contrast, Messi took 27 matches to match Klose’s record, adding an intriguing dynamic to the competition between these football giants. As the tournament progresses, Mbappé remains well-positioned to challenge the record, adding an exciting layer to the ongoing World Cup action.
The all-time World Cup scoring list includes illustrious names such as Brazil’s Ronaldo with 15 goals, Germany’s Gerd Müller with 14, France’s Just Fontaine with 13, and football icons like Pelé with 12. Additionally, players such as Gabriel Batistuta and Harry Kane are tied with 10 goals each.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup unfolds, the contest for football’s most coveted goalscoring record is shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most compelling narratives. With Messi aiming to etch his name in the history books and Mbappé seeking to usher in a new era, the stage is set for a thrilling goalscoring showdown.