Kylian Mbappé is close to becoming the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history during the 2026 tournament in the U.S.

This pursuit represents a historic milestone for the French forward, as surpassing the current record would cement his legacy as the most prolific goalscorer in the competition's history.

Mbappé has already scored five goals [1] in the current tournament. His recent performance, including a brace against Senegal, has put him within striking distance of the record [2]. The current all-time scoring mark is 16 goals [3], held by Germany's Miroslav Klose.

Reports differ on the exact number of goals Mbappé requires to claim the title. Some analysts said he needs three more goals to break the record [4]. However, other reports suggest he could become the all-time leading scorer if he finds the net twice more before the final whistle [5].

"His brace against Senegal put him within striking distance of Miroslav Klose’s 16‑goal record," NYTimes Athletic staff said [2].

Mbappé continues to lead the France national team as they progress through the tournament. The race for the record has reignited discussions regarding the rivalry between Mbappé and other legendary players on the world stage [6].

"Mbappé could become the World Cup’s all‑time leading scorer if he finds the net twice more before the final whistle," Clemente Lisi said [5].

As the tournament moves toward its final stages, every match provides an opportunity for the forward to close the gap. "Tracking every Mbappé goal shows he needs three more to break the all‑time record," the MSN Sports editorial team said [4].

“Mbappé has already scored five goals in the current tournament.”

The potential breaking of Miroslav Klose's record would signal a generational shift in international football. Because World Cup records are infrequently broken due to the four-year gap between tournaments, Mbappé's current trajectory suggests he is operating at a peak efficiency that could redefine the standard for forwards in the modern era.