Kylian Mbappé became the highest goal scorer in World Cup history by scoring 22 goals, surpassing Germany’s Miroslav Klose’s record. Lionel Messi set three historic records in a single World Cup edition by achieving 23 wins, scoring in nine consecutive matches, and netting seven goals from outside the penalty area. Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simón established a new World Cup record by keeping clean sheets in seven of eight matches.
On July 21, Kathmandu — The 2026 FIFA World Cup not only crowned a new world champion but also shattered many longstanding records in global football. Players such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri, Unai Simón, and Michael Olise added new chapters to football history, while some coaches and teams achieved rare accomplishments. This article compiles the key records recognized by FIFA from the tournament.
French star forward Kylian Mbappé became the top goal scorer in World Cup history, finishing the tournament with 22 goals and breaking the record previously held by Germany’s Miroslav Klose. Although Lionel Messi initially surpassed this record during the competition, Mbappé ultimately took the lead to claim the top spot.
Argentine captain Lionel Messi set three world records at the World Cup. He became the player with the most wins in a single World Cup edition, achieving 23 victories. Additionally, Messi scored in nine consecutive matches, breaking the previous record of six consecutive games held by Just Fontaine and Jairzinho. He also became the player with the most goals scored from outside the penalty area, netting seven such goals throughout the tournament.
