Mbappe draws Level with Messi in Golden Boot race

Kylian Mbappe has pulled level with Lionel Messi at the top of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race following a spectacular performance in the Round of 32. The French forward scored twice today to spearhead France’s dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden at the New York-New Jersey Stadium, safely securing his side's place in the next round.

Mbappe’s brilliant brace also saw him rewrite the history books, overtaking German legendary striker Miroslav Klose to claim sole possession of second place on the World Cup's all-time scoring chart. While Klose netted 16 goals across 24 matches in four tournament appearances, Mbappe has reached a stunning 18 goals in just 18 matches over the course of three World Cup editions.

Only Argentina captain Lionel Messi now stands ahead of the Frenchman on the all-time list, holding the record with 19 goals in 29 matches across six World Cups. The 2026 tournament marks an unprecedented era in football history, representing the first time two active players have competed simultaneously for both the current tournament's Golden Boot and the ultimate all-time World Cup scoring crown.

Following their convincing triumph, France will travel to Philadelphia on Sunday to face Paraguay in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash. The South Americans set up the meeting after pulling off a massive upset against Germany in their own Round of 32 matchup yesterday.