Let Messi score, I want the World Cup: Mbappe

2026-07-01T06:59:05.958Z

Kylian Mbappe says lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy matters far more than overtaking Lionel Messi in the tournament's all-time scoring charts, insisting France's focus remains firmly on winning the title.

The France captain continued his prolific form by scoring twice in Les Bleus' 3-0 victory over Sweden on Wednesday (June 1)), securing their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The brace took Mbappe's World Cup tally to 18 goals, leaving him just one behind Lionel Messi's 19 and moving him into second place on the tournament's all-time scoring list. He has also matched Messi's six-goal haul in the current edition.

Despite closing in on another personal milestone, Mbappe downplayed the significance of individual records after the match, saying his sole ambition is to guide France to the final and lift the trophy in New York on July 19.

"My objective has always been to go as far as possible," Mbappe told reporters. "Our goal is to reach the final on July 19 and come back here. That's what we're playing for."

He added that scoring goals naturally comes with success but insisted it is not his primary motivation.

"The more goals you score, the higher you climb in the rankings. That's nothing new," he said.

The 26-year-old also brushed aside comparisons with Messi, predicting the Argentine legend will continue adding to his tally.

"I'm sure Leo will score more goals, so I'm not thinking about that," Mbappe said. "My full focus is on our next opponents and finding a way to get closer to the final."

France will face Paraguay in the Round of 16 after the South Americans stunned Germany in a penalty shootout to reach the knockout stage.

Mbappe warned against underestimating Paraguay, praising their disciplined and defensive style despite France entering the tie as favourites.

"We'll prepare well because there are still areas where we can improve," he said. "Overall, we're in a positive place, and we know we have the attacking quality to create chances and win any match."