Just Fontaine Scored 13 Goals in a Single World Cup: Can Messi and Mbappé Break This Record?

Star players like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé are not only competing for the Golden Boot but are also vying to set the record for the most goals scored in a single FIFA World Cup edition. Kathmandu, June 25 – Alongside the question of which team will win the FIFA World Cup this time, intense attention is focused on who will claim the individual Golden Boot award. Four of the world’s top football stars are leading the race to become the tournament’s top scorer and claim this personal accolade: Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi (8 goals), France’s captain Kylian Mbappé (7 goals), Norway’s striker Erling Haaland (7 goals), and England’s captain Harry Kane (6 goals).

The historic record held by Just Fontaine, who scored 13 goals in a single World Cup, remains a significant benchmark whenever the Golden Boot is discussed. Messi holds the all-time World Cup scoring record with 21 goals, followed closely by Mbappé with 19. However, the feat of netting 13 goals in one World Cup edition is particularly remarkable. In the 1958 FIFA World Cup held in Sweden, French striker Just Fontaine set this record by scoring 13 goals — a unique achievement that still stands today.

Fontaine’s record was achieved in his sole World Cup appearance, solidifying his status as the top single-tournament goalscorer. Since then, although numerous football stars have graced the tournament, none have been able to surpass this milestone. Even football legend Pelé, who won three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970, never approached Fontaine’s goal-scoring prowess in a single edition. The big question capturing everyone’s attention now is: Will Messi or Mbappé be able to break Just Fontaine’s remarkable record?