Mbappe overtakes Klose World Cup record, leads Messi in Golden Boot race
On July 1, 2026, France captain Kylian Mbappe scored two goals as France beat Sweden 3-0 to reach the Round of 16. The brace took his tournament tally to six goals and two assists, putting him ahead of Lionel Messi (six goals, zero assists) in the Golden Boot race and pushing both past Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16.
Mbappe's feat cements his status as one of the tournament's standout performers and signals a strong challenge for the Golden Boot. Historically, only a few players have surpassed Klose's mark; now Messi (19 career World Cup goals) and Mbappe (17) lead the all-time list, ahead of Ronaldo (15). For fans, it shapes expectations for the knockout stage and may influence betting or viewing choices.
Mbappe will face tougher defences ahead; if he maintains his scoring rate he could clinch the Golden Boot. Fans tracking the race might watch France's next match or consider how his form affects team dynamics. Will Mbappe's edge over Messi hold, or can Argentina's star close the gap in the remaining matches?