Lionel Messi Becomes All-Time Leading World Cup Goalscorer
Lionel Messi has set a new record for the most goals in World Cup history, surpassing Kylian Mbappé and Miroslav Klose after scoring against Cape Verde.


Lionel Messi has once again etched his name into football history, becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in the FIFA World Cup. The Argentine captain achieved this milestone during the recent Round of 16 clash against Cape Verde, scoring a decisive goal that propelled him past previous record holders.
This latest achievement adds another significant accolade to Messi’s illustrious career, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. The goal against Cape Verde was not just a personal triumph but also a crucial moment in the tournament for Argentina.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Pace
The goal against Cape Verde brings Messi’s total World Cup tally to 20. This remarkable figure places him two goals ahead of his PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé and four goals clear of the legendary German striker Miroslav Klose, who previously held the record. Messi has been in exceptional form throughout the current tournament, having already scored seven goals, demonstrating his enduring impact on the global stage.
Historical Goal Distribution
Messi’s 20 World Cup goals are spread across multiple tournaments, showcasing his longevity and consistent performance at the highest level of international football:
– Germany 2006: 1 goal
– Brazil 2014: 4 goals
– Russia 2018: 1 goal
– Qatar 2022: 7 goals
– 2026 Tournament: 7 goals (as of the match against Cape Verde)
Notable goalscorers in World Cup history include Ronaldo (15 goals), Gerd Müller (14 goals), and Just Fontaine (13 goals), highlighting the significance of Messi’s new record.
Key facts
| Player | World Cup Goals | Tournaments |
|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 20 | 2006, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026 |
| Kylian Mbappé | 18 | 2018, 2022, 2026 |
| Miroslav Klose | 16 | 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014 |
| Ronaldo (Brazil) | 15 | 1998, 2002, 2006 |
Impact on Football
Messi’s achievement is a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication. For fans of FootballGames10, this news underscores the continuous evolution of football records and the iconic status of players like Messi. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver crucial goals in major tournaments remains a defining characteristic of his career. As the 2026 World Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Messi to see if he can further extend his lead in the all-time scoring charts.
Source: Ole – https://www.ole.com.ar/mundial/mundial-2026/messi-goles-mundiales-record-mbappe-klose_0_g4QPZdB3Zi.html
Source
Ole Original publication: 2026-07-03T22:45:12+00:00
FootballGames10 Desk
Editorial contributor.
