World Cup 2026: Mbappé becomes second-highest scorer in World Cup history

Kylian Mbappé has written another chapter in World Cup history after scoring against Sweden to move into second place on the all-time tournament scoring list.

The France forward opened the scoring just before half-time in their round of 32 match, giving Les Bleus a 1-0 lead at the break and reaching a landmark moment in his career.

The goal takes Mbappé to 17 World Cup goals, moving him past Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who previously held second place with 16 goals. Only Lionel Messi now sits ahead of him with 19.

At just 27 years of age, Mbappé continues to climb the list of the competition’s greatest goalscorers, underlining his status as one of the most influential players in World Cup history.

Mbappé’s record-breaking milestone

The strike against Sweden not only gave France the lead but also confirmed Mbappé’s place among the most prolific scorers the tournament has ever seen.

His latest goal adds to a remarkable World Cup record that continues to grow across multiple editions of the competition.

Mbappé’s consistency on football’s biggest stage has placed him above several legendary forwards, with his 17-goal tally now second only to Messi’s 19.

Major impact beyond goals

Beyond his scoring record, Mbappé has also strengthened his overall contribution to World Cup history through goals and assists combined.

He now has 21 goal involvements in the tournament since records began in 1966, made up of 17 goals and 4 assists.

That places him second in overall World Cup contributions behind Lionel Messi, who leads with 26 (19 goals and 7 assists).

A growing legacy on the world stage

Mbappé’s rise continues to shape modern World Cup history, with each tournament further cementing his reputation as a decisive force for France.

His ability to score in key moments has once again been highlighted in the knockout stage, where his first-half goal proved crucial in setting the tone for the match against Sweden.

As France progress in the competition, Mbappé’s achievements add further weight to his growing legacy, with records continuing to fall at a remarkable pace.

At 27, his position among the tournament’s greatest-ever players is already secure, and his latest milestone ensures he remains at the centre of World Cup history discussions.