Kylian Mbappé scores 22nd career World Cup goal to pass Messi's record

France captain Kylian Mbappé has achieved another historic milestone at the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the highest-scoring player in World Cup history with 22 goals.

Although France suffered a 6-4 defeat against England in the third-place play-off, Mbappé scored twice to inspire hopes of a comeback and moved ahead of Lionel Messi’s previous record.

Mbappé scored in the 48th minute to equal Messi’s tally of 21 World Cup goals before finding the net again in the 66th minute to take his overall total to 22, making him the tournament’s leading scorer in World Cup history.

The French forward has now scored 10 goals in the tournament, putting him at the top of the race for the Golden Boot award.

Attention now turns to the final, where Argentina captain Lionel Messi is set to face Spain in what could be his final World Cup appearance.

Messi will look to reclaim the Golden Boot and challenge Mbappé’s lead.

Meanwhile, England secured third place at the 2026 World Cup after a thrilling victory over France.

Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick for England, while Jude Bellingham also found the net to take his tournament tally to seven goals.

England’s attacking display sealed a memorable 6-4 win, while Mbappé’s record-breaking performance added another chapter to World Cup history.