Messi’s Record-Breaking Performance
Lionel Messi of Argentina has surpassed the previous record for most goals scored in World Cup history. He achieved his 17th and 18th goals during Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria. Subsequently, he added his 19th goal against Jordan with a free kick from outside the box. This achievement further solidifies his legacy in the sport, as he continues to add to his goal tally in the current tournament.
Messi has now participated in six World Cups. In the 2022 tournament, he scored seven goals, leading Argentina to the title. Throughout his career, he has also received the Ballon d’Or award a record eight times. His average for World Cup appearances stands at two goals per three games played. Additionally, Messi has a notable record of six assists in his World Cup career, averaging about one assist every four games.
Mbappé’s Ascent in World Cup Scoring
Kylian Mbappé, the forward for France, is closely trailing Messi in the all-time World Cup scoring list. He currently has 16 World Cup goals. Mbappé has rapidly climbed this list, and at 27 years old, he has accumulated 14 goals in 15 World Cup games. He scored four goals in his debut World Cup in 2018, contributing to France’s victory, and followed that with eight goals in the 2022 tournament.
During the current World Cup, Mbappé scored a brace against Senegal. He also holds the record for the most goals scored in a World Cup final, with four. In his 17 World Cup matches, Mbappé averages approximately one goal per game. He has also provided two assists in his World Cup appearances, averaging an assist every eight games.
Comparing the Two Superstars
The competition between Messi and Mbappé for the World Cup goal record is a significant storyline of the current tournament. Both players’ teams are considered strong contenders to win the tournament, with France being the current favourite and Argentina close behind. The depth to which their respective teams advance in the competition could influence who ultimately holds the record.
The 2022 World Cup final in Qatar marked their last direct encounter on the pitch, where Argentina secured the trophy. In that match, Mbappé achieved a hat trick, which was only the second instance of such a feat in World Cup history. When asked about the best players among the current World Cup stars, Mbappé openly acknowledged Messi as superior.
Mbappé has also become the French national team’s all-time top goal scorer, surpassing Olivier Giroud’s record of 58 goals with two strikes in a 3-1 win over Senegal on June 16.
Historical Context of World Cup Goal Scorers
The all-time World Cup goal-scoring list features several legendary names. Miroslav Klose was the previous record holder before Messi’s recent achievements. Other notable players on the list include Ronaldo of Brazil, Gerd Müller of West Germany, and Just Fontaine of France.
Pelé of Brazil scored 12 goals across his World Cup appearances, contributing to Brazil’s victories in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Players tied with 11 goals include Harry Kane of England, Jürgen Klinsmann of Germany, and Sándor Kocsis of Hungary. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal is also among the six players who have scored 10 World Cup goals, becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups.
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Source: nbcnews.com
Priya Nair
Sports Reporter
