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Jun 23, 2026 Major2
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Messi Equals Klose's World Cup Record as Mbappé Chases History
Lionel Messi has equalled Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals with a hat-trick against Algeria, while Kylian Mbappé sits on 14 goals in pursuit of the same record. Both veterans will have opportunities to make history in their upcoming matches at the 2026 World Cup.
Quick Facts
Who
Lionel Messi
What
Messi scored a hat-trick to equal Klose's World Cup goalscoring record
When
2026 World Cup
Where
Argentina
- Messi scored a hat-trick to equal Klose's World Cup goalscoring record
- Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in opening match
- Mbappé scored twice in France's opening victory
- France beat Senegal 3-1
- Mbappé will play his 100th game for France against Iraq
Lionel Messi has equalled Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 opening victory over Algeria at the 2026 World Cup. The 39-year-old Argentine captain, who turns 39 on Wednesday, achieved the milestone despite recovering from a hamstring injury and personal challenges, including his father's recent health issues. Messi was visibly emotional after his first goal, but his performance underscored his continued importance to Argentina's campaign, with midfielder Alexis Mac Allister stating that "Leo is the most important of them all."
With one more goal, Messi will break the 20-year-old record held by the German defender. Argentina faces Austria on Monday in Dallas, with a victory potentially securing qualification for the knockout round and top spot in Group J. The team's confidence appears bolstered by Messi's presence and performance, setting the stage for a potential record-breaking run in the tournament.
Kylian Mbappé remains hot on the trail of the goalscoring record, currently tied with West Germany legend Gerd Müller on 14 goals. The French forward scored twice in France's opening 3-1 victory over Senegal and will achieve a personal milestone of his own when France faces Iraq in Philadelphia, marking his 100th international appearance. Mbappé described the significance of reaching this number at a World Cup, saying it would be a special match for him.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Spain rebounded from a frustrating opening draw with a dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, with Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal opening the scoring in his first start since returning from a hamstring injury. World Cup debutants Cape Verde continued their impressive run with a 2-2 draw against Uruguay, leaving their coach Bubista to dream of an unlikely knockout round qualification. Belgium remained winless after a goalless draw with Iran, while Egypt claimed their first World Cup victory with a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand.
Why This Matters
Messi's achievement represents a historic moment in World Cup history, as the 39-year-old continues to compete at the highest level despite age and injury concerns. This milestone matters because it highlights the exceptional longevity of both Messi and Mbappé in international football, with younger Mbappé now positioned to potentially break the record in his prime years. For fans and analysts, it underscores how World Cup records have evolved over generations—from Klose's decades-long dominance to the emerging competition from modern superstars—and raises questions about who will ultimately hold football's most prestigious scoring milestone.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 22, 2026
WireArgentina defeats Algeria 3-0; Messi scores hat-trick to equal Klose's 16-goal World Cup record
Jun 22, 2026
WireFrance defeats Senegal 3-1; Mbappé scores twice to reach 14 World Cup goals
Jun 22, 2026
WireSpain defeats Saudi Arabia 4-0; Lamine Yamal scores opening goal
Jun 22, 2026
WireCape Verde draws 2-2 with Uruguay in Miami
Jun 22, 2026
WireBelgium draws 0-0 with Iran in Los Angeles
Jun 22, 2026
WireEgypt defeats New Zealand 3-1 for first World Cup victory
Jun 23, 2026
WireNorway defeats Iraq 4-1; Erling Haaland scores twice
Jun 24, 2026
WireArgentina scheduled to face Austria in Dallas; Messi positioned to break World Cup goalscoring record
Jun 24, 2026
WireFrance scheduled to face Iraq in Philadelphia; Mbappé to play 100th game for France