Mbappe names Messi and Ronaldo as world's best two players at 2026 World Cup

France captain Kylian Mbappe told media at the 2026 World Cup that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are the two best players in the world. He made the comment when asked to compare himself, Messi, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. Mbappe also noted his own performance, saying he scored twice in France’s opening group match against Senegal, while Messi hit a hat-trick against Algeria. "I knew that Leo Messi was going to score goals... he always scores," Mbappe added, adding that he intends to keep scoring to help France advance as far as possible and to get closer to the record. The article notes that Mbappe will be hoping to send France into the knockouts when they face Iraq on Monday, June 22, 2026.

For Nigerian football fans, the statement highlights the ongoing GOAT debate and gives a top player’s view on who stands at the summit of the sport. It also provides context for the World Cup group stage results—Senegal and Algeria have already faced France and Argentina respectively—and underscores the importance of Monday’s France‑Iraq match for Les Bleus’ tournament hopes.

Will Mbappe’s pursuit of personal goal records help France’s push for the knockout stage, or could it create tension within the squad as they aim for collective success?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/21/2026-world-cup-mbappe-names-best-two-players/