Mbappe becomes FIFA World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer after breaking Messi's record

Despite France finishing fourth at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Kylian Mbappe achieved one of the greatest milestones in football history by becoming the tournament's all-time leading goalscorer.

The France captain surpassed Lionel Messi's long-standing record during Les Bleus' dramatic 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place playoff, cementing his place among the greatest players to ever grace the FIFA World Cup.

Kylian Mbappé Makes World Cup History

England secured the FIFA World Cup 2026 bronze medal after defeating France in a thrilling 10-goal contest in Miami.

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Thomas Tuchel's side stormed into a 4-0 halftime lead thanks to goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and Bukayo Saka, who completed a brilliant hat-trick.

France fought back strongly after the interval, with Mbappé producing another world-class display. The Real Madrid forward scored twice and provided an assist for Bradley Barcola, helping Les Bleus reduce the deficit to 4-3.

However, England restored control and eventually sealed a memorable 6-4 victory to claim third place.

Although France fell short of the bronze medal, the night belonged to Mbappé, who rewrote the FIFA World Cup record books.

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Mbappe Surpasses Lionel Messi's World Cup Goals Record

Mbappé's second goal against England took his tally to 22 FIFA World Cup goals, making him the highest goalscorer in the tournament's history.

The 27-year-old overtook Lionel Messi's 21 goals to become the outright record holder, adding yet another remarkable achievement to his already glittering career.

He also finished the FIFA World Cup 2026 with 10 goals and four assists, making him the tournament's standout performer and further strengthening his reputation as one of football's greatest players.

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FIFA World Cup All-Time Top Goalscorers

A Record That Could Stand for Years

While France's World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, Mbappe's individual achievements will be remembered for generations.

The French superstar not only became the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorer, but he also became the first player since Gerd Müller in 1970 to score 10 goals in a single World Cup tournament.

At just 27 years old, Mbappe still has several years at the highest level and is expected to feature in future World Cups, giving him the opportunity to extend a record that could remain unmatched for decades.

His latest achievement further strengthens his legacy as one of the greatest footballers in FIFA World Cup history.