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Kylian Mbappe breaks all-time World Cup scoring record with 22nd goal

Al Jazeera · 2026-07-18

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Kylian Mbappe scored his 22nd goal in World Cup history during a bronze-medal match against England, breaking the all-time scoring record, despite France losing 6-4. • Why it matters: This achievement cements Mbappe's legacy as one of the greatest strikers in football history and highlights his exceptional talent, as he also finished as the top scorer of the current tournament with 10 goals. • What to watch next: Attention will shift to the championship match between Argentina and Spain, where Lionel Messi, likely in his final World Cup, will have a chance to reclaim the Golden Boot title.

**Kylian Mbappe Breaks All-Time World Cup Scoring Record with 22nd Goal**

**Miami, July 18, 2026** – Kylian Mbappe has etched his name into football history by scoring his 22nd goal in World Cup competitions, surpassing the previous record held by legendary players. The French captain achieved this milestone during a thrilling bronze-medal match against England, which concluded with a score of 6-4 in favor of the English team.

The match, held in Miami, marked the end of the tournament for France, the 2018 World Cup champions. Despite the loss, Mbappe's performance was a highlight, as he showcased his exceptional talent and determination on the field. The game started poorly for France, who found themselves trailing 4-0 at halftime against a revitalized England side.

Mbappe, 27, began his scoring spree in the second half, netting his first goal in the 48th minute. This goal not only brought France back into the game but also tied him with Argentina's Lionel Messi for the most goals scored in World Cup history at that moment, both having 21 goals. Just six minutes later, teammate Bradley Barcola added to the scoreline, igniting hope for the French team.

The French captain then struck again in the 66th minute, making history by scoring his 22nd World Cup goal. This achievement not only established him as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history but also positioned him as the top scorer of the current tournament, with a total of 10 goals.

Mbappe's remarkable journey in the World Cup has seen him consistently competing for the Golden Boot, an award he has shared with Messi throughout the tournament. As the final approaches, Messi, likely participating in his last World Cup, will have one final opportunity to reclaim the title when Argentina faces Spain in the championship match.

In addition to Mbappe's historic performance, France saw contributions from Ousmane Dembele, who scored his sixth World Cup goal, rounding out the team's total to four. However, England's offensive prowess proved too much for France, with Bukayo Saka delivering a standout performance, netting a hat-trick. Jude Bellingham also made history for England, becoming the team's all-time scorer in World Cup competitions with his seventh goal.

Despite the disappointment of not securing a medal, France's journey through the tournament showcased their resilience and talent, with Mbappe at the forefront. His record-breaking achievement solidifies his status as one of the best strikers in football history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

As the tournament wraps up, the football world will undoubtedly continue to celebrate Mbappe's extraordinary contributions and look forward to the next chapter of his career.

Source: Al Jazeera
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