World Cup 2026: Record Pursuits of Messi, Haaland, and More

The 2026 World Cup, only 10 days in, is shaping up to be a historic tournament with several players on the brink of breaking significant records. Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland have made impressive starts in their opening matches, setting the stage for potential record-breaking performances.

Lionel Messi, playing for Argentina, equaled Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup goals with a hat-trick against Algeria. This achievement puts him in a prime position to claim the all-time top scorer title. Meanwhile, France’s Kylian Mbappe, already the nation's top scorer with 58 goals, lurks just behind Messi with 14 World Cup goals.

Harry Kane showcased his scoring prowess in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia, tying with Gary Lineker as England's top World Cup scorer with ten goals. Kane’s performance also marked his ability to score in three different World Cups, joining the ranks of Sir David Beckham.

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Cristiano Ronaldo, despite Portugal's draw with DR Congo, is poised to make history by scoring in his sixth World Cup. At 41, he also became the oldest outfield player at a World Cup, surpassing Atiba Hutchinson’s previous record.

Erling Haaland of Norway demonstrated his scoring capabilities by becoming his nation’s joint all-time leading World Cup scorer in just one game. With two goals against Iraq, he is set to surpass Kjetil Rekdal's record.

With major records still up for grabs and fierce competition among the tournament’s top players, the World Cup 2026 promises thrilling narratives as it unfolds.

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