In an impressive start to the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi netted a hat-trick, leading Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria. This performance brought his total to 16 goals in World Cup history, matching the record set by Miroslav Klose.
As Messi aims to break the record this summer, Kylian Mbappé is closely trailing him. The French forward scored two goals in France’s opening match against Senegal, raising his World Cup tally to 14 since his debut in the tournament eight years ago.
Top World Cup Goalscorers
The following list highlights the top 20 all-time goalscorers in World Cup history, based on data from Transfermarkt. In instances where players have identical tallies, the one with fewer appearances is given precedence.
Fans of England will be eager for Harry Kane to add to his current total of eight goals, hoping he quickly ascends this elite list.
