Mbappe draws level with Messi in Golden Boot race

Kylian Mbappe joined Lionel Messi at the top of the Golden Boot race at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after scoring twice in France's convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden in their Round of 32 clash at the New York-New Jersey Stadium today.

Mbappe's brace also saw him surpass German great Miroslav Klose to move into second place on the World Cup's all-time scoring chart. Klose scored 16 goals in 24 matches across four World Cup editions, while Mbappe, playing in his third World Cup, has now netted 18 goals in as many appearances.

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Mbappe brace helps France ease into World Cup last 16

Only Argentina captain Messi remains ahead of the French forward, with 19 goals in 29 matches across six World Cups. The 2026 edition marks the first time two active players have been competing simultaneously for both the Golden Boot and the World Cup's all-time scoring record.

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Messi will score more but I want the trophy: Mbappe

France will face Paraguay in the last 16 on Sunday in Philadelphia after the South Americans stunned Germany in the Round of 32 a day earlier.