Lionel Messi Becomes Top World Cup Goal Scorer as Kylian Mbappé Trails Closely

The 2026 World Cup has seen Lionel Messi rise to the top of the all-time scoring list. In Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria, Messi netted his 17th and 18th goals in World Cup play, putting him ahead of every other player in tournament history. Fans are now eager to see how many more goals he will rack up during this competition.

Mbappé Moves Up to Second Place

Shortly after Messi’s record-breaking performance, Kylian Mbappé of France climbed into a tie for second place on the all-time World Cup scoring chart. Meanwhile, other stars like Harry Kane and Cristiano Ronaldo remain active contenders who might also improve their standings during this World Cup.

Top World Cup Goal Scorers Throughout History

Legends Who Left Their Mark

Jürgen Klinsmann, known now mostly for coaching roles, was once a fierce striker with 11 World Cup goals scored across three tournaments. Sándor Kocsis dazzled at the 1954 World Cup alone, netting all 11 of his goals in that single event, including two hat tricks, though Hungary lost the final to West Germany.

Pelé made his debut as a teenager in 1958, scoring six times en route to Brazil’s first title. He added just a handful more goals through 1962 and 1970, finishing with 12 in total and three championships.

Frenchman Just Fontaine holds the record for most goals in one tournament, bagging 13 during the 1958 World Cup. His tally includes a four-goal performance in the third-place match and key strikes against Brazil.

Gerd Müller was prolific over just two World Cups, scoring 14 goals and winning the Golden Boot in 1970 before helping West Germany win in 1974. Ronaldo scored 15 goals over three World Cups, including eight in 2002 when Brazil took the title.

The Current Chase

Kylian Mbappé has 14 goals from two World Cups and began 2026 with a two-goal game against Senegal. He is only 27 and could challenge Messi’s lead. Miroslav Klose was renowned for never missing chances, compiling 16 goals over four tournaments and holding the previous record before Messi.

Messi’s Historic Journey Continues

This year marks Messi’s sixth World Cup appearance. After winning the 2022 title with seven goals, he opened the 2026 campaign with a hat trick against Algeria, marking his first in World Cup play. His recent goals against Austria solidified his place at the summit of World Cup scorers. Each goal adds to an already legendary career that many consider unparalleled.