Kylian Mbappé breaks World Cup Knockout stage goals record

Soccer player in a blue kit celebrates a goal with arms raised as a packed crowd cheers in the stands.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka July 1, 2026

Kylian Mbappé has become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup knockout history after scoring twice in France’s commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 32.

The 27-year-old forward netted his ninth goal in World Cup knockout matches, surpassing the previous record of eight jointly held by Brazil greats Leonidas and Ronaldo.

Mbappé reached the landmark in just nine knockout appearances, underlining his reputation as one of football’s most decisive players on the biggest stage.

His latest brace also took his tally at the 2026 World Cup to six goals, moving him level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot as France progressed comfortably to the round of 16.

The France forward has consistently delivered in crucial moments throughout his World Cup career. At the 2022 tournament, he scored a memorable hat-trick in the final against Argentina, becoming only the second player to achieve the feat in a World Cup final despite France’s defeat on penalties. He also finished as the competition’s top scorer with eight goals.

Mbappé has now scored 18 goals across World Cup tournaments, leaving him just one behind the all-time record of 19 currently held by Lionel Messi.

With France advancing to the last 16, the Real Madrid forward will have further opportunities to equal or surpass that mark as he continues to cement his place among the greatest players in World Cup history.

His latest record is another milestone in an already remarkable international career, reinforcing his reputation as a player who thrives under the pressure of football’s biggest occasions.