Top FIFA World Cup Goal Scorers: Messi Matches Klose's Record

All-Time Leading Goal Scorers at the FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup gathers some of the finest goal scorers in soccer history. The upcoming 2026 tournament, hosted in North America, is set to feature legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi once again, possibly marking their final appearances on this grand stage.

Alongside them are stars like Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane, who have impressive international scoring records. Yet the World Cup top scorer list also welcomes cult heroes who left their mark with unforgettable moments.

Who Holds the Record for Most World Cup Goals?

Miroslav Klose from Germany has been the highest scorer in World Cup history, netting 16 goals over four tournaments. Recently, Lionel Messi leveled with Klose after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's opening 2026 match against Algeria.

Klose’s career wasn’t always spotlighted as one of the world’s elite strikers, but his knack for World Cup goals was undeniable. He began with a hat-trick against Saudi Arabia in 2002 and finished with his 16th goal during Germany's 7-1 semifinal victory over Brazil in 2014, the year Germany took home the trophy.

Ranking the Top World Cup Goal Scorers

The record set by Klose pushed past the legendary Brazilian Ronaldo, who scored 15 goals, including two in Brazil's 2002 final win over Germany. Kylian Mbappe's two goals in France's opening 2026 match against Senegal raised him above Pele and tied him with Gerd Muller, both holding 14 goals.

Harry Kane marked his third World Cup with two goals in England's thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia, joining a group of players with 10 goals each, including fellow Englishman Gary Lineker.

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup Goal Count

Despite holding the record for most international goals with 143 before 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo has only scored eight goals across five World Cups, matching Diego Maradona's tally. Ronaldo aims to increase that number as Portugal pursues success in North America, though he started 2026 with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo.

Brazil's Neymar shares the same World Cup goal count of eight and might climb higher if he stays fit during the tournament.