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Lionel Messi broke the all-time World Cup scoring record with 18 goals in his sixth tournament, leading Argentina into the round of 32. Austria coach Ralf Rangnick praised Messi's unique playing style, noting his effectiveness despite reduced running. Messi's evolution has drawn admiration from peers and pundits alike.
Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France beat Senegal 3-1 in their 2026 World Cup opener, surpassing Olivier Giroud to become the all-time leading scorer for the national team with 58 goals and setting a new record for most goals by a French player at a single World Cup. Mbappe's 14 goals at the tournament broke Just Fontaine's 1958 record of 13, and he now trails only Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup record of 16 goals.
The 2026 World Cup has already set multiple records, from three co-hosts and 104 matches to a record $727 million prize fund. Brazil remain the most successful team with five titles, while Pele still holds the record for most World Cup wins by a player. Miroslav Klose leads as the all-time top scorer with 16 goals, and Lionel Messi has played the most World Cup matches (26).
