Kylian Mbappé chased the record held by the player he calls “the best,” Lionel Messi, after the Argentine star netted a hat‑trick against Algeria to tie 16 World Cup goals. Messi’s 3‑0 win matched Miroslav Klose’s all‑time tally, while Mbappé moved to 14 goals following France’s 3‑1 victory over Senegal.

Mbappé said he expected Messi to keep scoring, noting the Argentine’s consistency. The French captain added that both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated for 16 years, but his focus remains on delivering his own talent on the biggest stage. On Monday he will celebrate 100 caps in a Group I clash against Iraq in Philadelphia.

Having lifted the trophy in 2018, Mbappé eyes a second crown after Messi’s Argentina denied him in 2022. He insists that scoring more goals improves France’s knockout chances and stresses national pride above personal records. With both superstars still active, the race for the all‑time scoring lead adds extra drama to the 2026 tournament.

France must secure a win against Iraq to guarantee progression, while the Iraqi side jokes about fielding three goalkeepers to blunt Mbappé’s threat. Defender William Saliba plays through pain, showing France’s determination. A victory would not only cement Mbappé’s pursuit of the scoring record but also keep Les Bleus on track for a deep World Cup run.