Lionel Messi Tops World Cup Goal Scoring List, Kylian Mbappé Not Far Behind

The 2026 World Cup is underway, and Lionel Messi has claimed the top spot for most goals scored in World Cup history. During Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria, Messi netted his 17th and 18th World Cup goals, then followed up with a stunning free kick against Jordan, bringing his total to 19. His goal-scoring streak continues, raising the question of how many more he will add in this tournament.

Kylian Mbappé Ranks Second Among All-Time Scorers

France's Kylian Mbappé surged into second place on the all-time list during the knockout stages but remains just behind Messi. Both players are rewriting the record books as they chase history.

Top Goal Scorers in FIFA World Cup History

• Cristiano Ronaldo reached 11 World Cup goals by scoring in the 2026 knockout rounds for the first time, having scored in all six World Cups he's participated in.
• Jürgen Klinsmann, known also as a coach, tallied 11 goals in three tournaments, including the 1990 winning campaign.
• Sándor Kocsis scored all 11 of his World Cup goals during the 1954 tournament, including two hat tricks, though Hungary finished as runners-up.
• Pelé, regarded by many as a legend, scored 12 goals across three World Cups and led Brazil to three titles.
• Just Fontaine holds the record for most goals in a single World Cup with 13 goals in 1958.
• Harry Kane amassed 14 goals over three World Cups, becoming England’s all-time World Cup top scorer.
• Gerd Müller scored 14 goals across two World Cups, earning the Golden Boot in 1970 and winning the trophy in 1974.
• Ronaldo contributed 15 goals across three tournaments and was key in Brazil’s 2002 championship.
• Miroslav Klose leads German scorers with 16 World Cup goals, capturing the title in 2014.

Messi’s Latest Feats

Messi’s recent performances include a hat trick against Algeria in Argentina's opener and clutch goals in subsequent matches, including a free kick against Jordan and a decisive strike versus Cape Verde. This marks his sixth World Cup appearance following a victorious 2022 campaign where he scored seven goals and lifted the trophy.