2026 World Cup: Lionel Messi Still Hot on the Heels of Kylian Mbappé—A Crazy Rivalry

Every time Lionel Messi scores a goal, Kylian Mbappé responds without fail. The two are setting the World Cup ablaze with their goals. At stake is the top spot on the all-time list of World Cup leading scorers.

So far, La Pulga has scored seven goals in this World Cup, exactly the same as the French star (who also scored against Paraguay). No one has done better than them. The race for the 2026 World Cup top scorer title is between them.

The two are also vying for the all-time lead. Lionel Messi is currently first with 20 goals in 29 appearances. Kylian Mbappé is just one goal behind: 19 goals in 19 matches played. Behind them, there’s a huge gap. The closest competitor is England’s striker Harry Kane, with 13 goals.

Many are wondering how it will all play out. Kylian Mbappé has a significant advantage over Lionel Messi: he’s only 27 years old, so he’ll have more opportunities to increase his World Cup goal tally. In the meantime, the whole world is enjoying their rivalry.