Messi matches World Cup scoring record, but Mbappé holds advantage

Lionel Messi has once again demonstrated his enduring brilliance, equaling the all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals held by Germany's Miroslav Klose. The Argentinian superstar achieved this feat with a hat-trick in his team's opening match against Algeria, just days before his 39th birthday. This performance quells speculation about his current form, proving he can still perform at the highest level on the world stage.

However, Messi's reign at the top of the scoring charts may be short-lived. French sensation Kylian Mbappé is hot on his heels with 14 World Cup goals after scoring twice in France's opening victory. Mbappé, who is 12 years younger than Messi, is playing in his third World Cup compared to Messi's sixth. This age difference, combined with advancements in training science and potentially longer careers, gives Mbappé a significant advantage in surpassing Messi and Klose.

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He can still do it. So much was discussed and speculated about whether Messi, now under contract with Inter Miami, could still play at the World Cup form of 2022.

Messi's World Cup goal-scoring journey has been a gradual climb, with varying success across different tournaments. After scoring four goals in 2014 and one in 2018, his seven goals in the 2022 tournament were crucial in leading Argentina to the title. Mbappé, conversely, made an immediate impact, scoring four goals in his debut in 2018 and a remarkable eight in 2022, earning him the Golden Boot. His early success and youth suggest a strong potential for future records.

The race to hold the outright record adds an exciting dynamic to the tournament. Depending on how far Argentina and France advance, and how many goals Messi and Mbappé score, the record could change hands even before the current World Cup concludes. This contrasts sharply with the long reigns of previous record holders like Gerd Müller and Ronaldo (Brazilian), highlighting the changing landscape of international football and the emergence of new stars.

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The first impression: Yes, he can.