FIFA WC: Messi will score in the final and reclaim record, says Mbappe after overtaking Argentina great
Miami, July 19
France captain Kylian Mbappe believes Lionel Messi will reclaim the FIFA World Cup's all-time scoring record in Monday's final against Spain, just hours after overtaking the Argentina legend on the competition's overall scoring charts.
Mbappe moved to the top of the all-time World Cup scoring list after netting twice in France's thrilling 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place play-off on Saturday. The brace took the 27-year-old to 22 World Cup goals from just 22 matches, one ahead of Messi's tally of 21.
However, with Argentina set to face Spain in the final, Mbappe is convinced the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will respond immediately.
"Leo, he scores all the time. Tomorrow he will score, for sure," Mbappe told Fox Sports after the match.
Both Messi and Mbappe began the 2026 FIFA World Cup chasing former Germany striker Miroslav Klose's long-standing record of 16 World Cup goals. Messi first equalled and then surpassed Klose during Argentina's campaign before reaching 21 goals, only for Mbappe to leapfrog him with his double against England.
Mbappe has enjoyed a sensational tournament in North America, taking his tally to 10 goals in eight matches. His overall World Cup tally now stands at 22 goals, having scored 12 across the 2018 and 2022 editions before adding 10 more in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
His latest strikes also strengthened his grip on the Golden Boot race, leaving him two goals clear of Messi heading into Monday's final.
Despite the personal milestone, Mbappe admitted the record offered little consolation after France missed out on a podium finish.
"I just try to help my team every time. It's certain that when you score so many goals in the World Cup, it elevates you to certain levels. But I would have preferred not to be the top scorer in history and play the match tomorrow," he said.
France's defeat to England ended Mbappe's hopes of appearing in a second successive World Cup final, but the French captain will now watch with interest as Messi gets one last opportunity to reclaim the title of the tournament's most prolific scorer. If the Argentina captain finds the net against Spain, as Mbappe expects, he will once again move ahead of the Frenchman atop the World Cup's all-time scoring charts.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, this rivalry is amazing. But why is no one talking about how Mbappe himself said he'd rather not have the record if it meant playing in the final? That's the mentality of a true team player. Spain vs Argentina should be epic.
Respect to both legends. But let's not forget - Klose's 16 goals came in a different era with fewer matches. These guys have played extended tournaments. Still, 22 goals in just 22 matches is unreal consistency from Mbappe. Messi will score in the final though, mark my words!
I'm a bit tired of all this Messi worship from the media. Yes he's great, but Mbappe is literally the top scorer now and people are like 'oh he'll lose it tomorrow'. Let the final happen first! The hype is getting ridiculous.
As someone who grew up watching Sachin in cricket, this Messi-Mbappe rivalry gives me similar vibes. One legend passing the torch to the next generation. Mbappe's humility here is refreshing - imagine Kohli saying something similar about Tendulkar! Love it. 🙌
I think we're overlooking how Spain will play. They've been solid defensively. Messi might not get many chances. And honestly, does this record even matter anymore? Both have already cemented their legacy. Let's just enjoy the final!
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