France's Kylian Mbappé is accumulating World Cup records at an unprecedented rate, leading some analysts to suggest he is on track to become the greatest player in the tournament's history.
As of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mbappé has scored 20 goals, placing him second all-time, just one behind Lionel Messi. He is the first player to score eight goals in two separate World Cups. Mbappé also holds the record for most knockout stage goals with 12.
Peter Crouch, a FOX Sports analyst, stated that Mbappé's numbers are "ridiculous" and he is "potentially the greatest ever World Cup player." Stu Holden, another FOX Sports analyst, noted that Mbappé, who was the first teenager to win a World Cup since Pelé at age 19, is playing "a different game than others" and could be the greatest of all time by the time he finishes his career.
Mbappé is on pace to potentially play in three World Cup finals. In the 2022 final, he scored a hat trick in a match France ultimately lost. His current tournament appearances total three, with a potential fourth on the horizon if France reaches the final again in 2026.
Lionel Messi currently holds the record for the most World Cup goals with 21. Messi also holds records for most consecutive matches with a goal (nine) and most assists (nine). However, Messi has participated in six World Cups, twice as many as Mbappé. Analysts suggest Mbappé has time to surpass Messi's records, especially given his scoring consistency and longevity at a young age.
In a recent semifinal match against Morocco, Mbappé scored in the second half, breaking a scoreless tie. Ousmane Dembélé followed with another goal, securing France's advancement to the final. Despite facing a strong Moroccan defense, Mbappé's persistence was noted by former player Kasper Schmeichel, who described his goal as "exceptional, the skill and the vision."