A night of milestones for the French forward

Kylian Mbappé netted two goals in France’s third‑place match against England on Saturday, securing his place atop the World Cup scoring chart. The brace lifted his career tally to 22 tournament goals, surpassing Lionel Messi’s record and giving France a 2‑1 victory in the match held in Doha.

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The French captain’s second‑half strike came after a sustained French attack that dominated possession throughout the game. His first goal, a low‑driven finish, opened the scoring and forced England to chase the game. The second, a precise header from a corner, sealed the win and confirmed Mbappé’s record. With 22 goals, he now leads the all‑time list and sits one ahead of Messi in the 2026 Golden Boot race.

Mbappé’s performance was praised by teammates and analysts alike. Coach Didier Deschamps called the achievement „a testament to his relentless drive and talent.” Former French star Thierry Henry noted that „breaking Messi’s record is a historic moment for French football.” The 22‑goal total surpasses the previous benchmark set by Messi in 2022, highlighting Mbappé’s consistency across three World Cups. His goals came from varied situations—both open play and set pieces—showcasing his versatility.

Will Mbappé secure the 2026 Golden Boot?

The Golden Boot race tightens as the 2026 tournament approaches. Mbappé’s current lead gives him a psychological edge, but upcoming qualifiers will test his form. Critics argue that injuries and squad rotation could affect his scoring chances. Nonetheless, his proven ability to deliver in high‑pressure matches suggests he remains the favorite to claim the award.

The record‑breaking night reinforces Mbappé’s status as a modern football icon. It also raises expectations for his performance in the next World Cup cycle. France will likely build its attack around his scoring prowess, while other nations will study his play to devise counter‑strategies. As the football world looks ahead, Mbappé’s legacy continues to grow, inspiring the next generation of talent.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup goals did Messi score? Lionel Messi finished his World Cup career with 21 goals, a record that stood until Mbappé’s recent brace.

What is the Golden Boot? The Golden Boot is awarded to the tournament’s top scorer. Mbappé currently leads the race for the 2026 edition.

Will Mbappé play in the 2026 World Cup? As of now, Mbappé remains an active player and is expected to feature for France in the 2026 tournament, barring injury or retirement decisions.