Lionel Messi stands just one step away from creating a new FIFA World Cup scoring record. The Argentine superstar is playing his sixth World Cup for Argentina in 2026. Argentina opened their campaign on 16 June against Algeria. They secured a dominant 3-0 victory in that match. Remarkably, Messi scored all three goals in the opening game.
Next, Argentina will face Austria on 22 June. If Messi scores even once, he will become the highest scorer in World Cup history. This record has stood for 96 years without change. Currently, Miroslav Klose of Germany holds the record with 16 goals.
Record Race Tightens Between Football Legends
Messi has already equalled Klose’s legendary tally of 16 World Cup goals. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé remains a strong challenger in the race.
The French forward has scored 14 goals so far in World Cups. He now trails both Messi and Klose closely in this historic contest.
Additionally, Ronaldo Nazário of Brazil also features in this elite list. He scored 15 goals across his World Cup career. However, current form suggests Messi and Mbappé may surpass all previous records.
World Cup Goal Leaders in History
At present, the ranking shows intense competition at the top level. Miroslav Klose leads with 16 goals for Germany. Lionel Messi matches him with 16 goals for Argentina.
Ronaldo Nazário follows with 15 goals for Brazil. Kylian Mbappé currently stands at 14 goals for France.
Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo does not feature among the top scorers. He has scored only 8 goals in his World Cup career so far. Meanwhile, Messi has already doubled that tally with 16 goals.
