Messi and Mbappe's 2026 World Cup Goal Pace Compared to All-Time Records

Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe have shown impressive goal-scoring talent that has captivated soccer fans. Yet, these feats have historical precedents, some even more prolific.

The all-time record for most goals scored by a player in a single World Cup is 13, held by Just Fontaine from the 1958 tournament. Only a few players have managed to score in double digits since then, and none after 1970.

Mbappe scored eight goals in his best World Cup showing, while Messi reached seven in 2022. Both remain in pursuit of Fontaine’s longstanding record.

Record for Most Goals in One World Cup

Fontaine's 13-goal haul in 1958 surpassed Sandor Kocsis's previous mark of 11 set in 1954. Gerd Muller came close with 10 goals in 1970 but never broke through.

In the 2022 Qatar World Cup final, Mbappe’s hat trick brought his total to seven, but France lost to Messi’s Argentina on penalties.

"Fontaine’s 1958 World Cup individual record remains unbeaten after 68 years," the stats say.

After Argentina’s 2-0 win against Austria, Messi leads the scoring charts in 2026.

Few teams have surpassed historic scoring marks since 2000.

Data accurate as of June 22, 2026. Asterisks indicate players active in the 2026 World Cup.