Paris: French football superstar Kylian Mbappé has etched his name deeper into FIFA World Cup history by drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose as the joint second-highest goalscorer in World Cup history.
Mbappé reached the milestone during France’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, taking his overall World Cup tally to 16 goals, matching Klose’s long-standing record. The achievement further cements the French captain’s reputation as one of the greatest performers in World Cup history. Only Cristiano Ronaldo remains ahead on the all-time World Cup scoring list with 18 goals.
The 27-year-old forward has enjoyed a remarkable World Cup career since making his tournament debut in 2018. He played a key role in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia and has continued to deliver consistently on football’s biggest stage across multiple editions of the tournament.
Mbappé’s scoring record is particularly impressive given his age. Unlike many of the players above him on the all-time list, he still has several years of international football ahead of him, making him a strong contender to break the overall record before the end of his career.
Football analysts have highlighted Mbappé’s ability to perform under pressure, his pace, finishing ability and consistency in major tournaments as the factors behind his historic achievement. His World Cup goals have come against a variety of opponents across knockout and group-stage matches, demonstrating his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
France’s strong performances in the ongoing tournament have also benefited from Mbappé’s leadership and attacking influence. The striker remains central to the team’s ambitions of securing another World Cup title and adding further chapters to his already illustrious international career.
The record-equaling feat has sparked widespread praise from former players, coaches and fans around the world, many of whom believe Mbappé is on course to become the most prolific World Cup goalscorer in history.
With France still competing in the tournament, the opportunity to surpass Klose and move closer to Ronaldo’s record could arrive sooner rather than later. Football fans worldwide will be watching closely as Mbappé continues his pursuit of another historic milestone.
