Top Goal Scorers in FIFA World Cup History as Messi Equals Klose
The FIFA World Cup has seen some of the most lethal scorers in soccer history. Now, as Lionel Messi matches Miroslav Klose's record for the most goals scored at the tournament, the spotlight shines on the game's greatest finishers.
Who Holds the Record for Most World Cup Goals?
Miroslav Klose, the German striker, held the record with 16 goals from four World Cups. Messi's hat-trick against Algeria in the 2026 opener brought him level with Klose. Despite never being touted as the world's top striker, Klose shone brightest on the World Cup stage, debuting with a hat-trick in 2002 and closing his World Cup journey with a record 16th goal during Germany's 7-1 semifinal win over Brazil in 2014.
Top Scorers List at the World Cup
The 2026 World Cup saw Kylian Mbappe move above Pele with a double in France’s win over Senegal, tying Gerd Muller on 14 goals, while England captain Harry Kane also reached 10 World Cup goals after a brace against Croatia.
Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup Goals
Cristiano Ronaldo, despite holding the record for most international goals with 143 before 2026, has scored only eight times across five World Cups, the same tally as Diego Maradona. He hopes to reach double digits as Portugal aims for a deep run. His 2026 start was quiet with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Brazil’s Neymar matches Ronaldo with eight World Cup goals and could climb higher if he stays fit through the tournament.
