Kylian Mbappé's World Cup quest heated up with two goals against Iraq,bringing his tally to 16. This Group I match saw him match Miroslav Klose's record . Now he trails only Messi,who has 18 goals after his two against Austria earlier.
The French star struck first in the 14th minute,then again in 54th,showing his scoring skills. Before this, he shared fourth place in World Cup history with Gerd Müller, at 14 goals. His first against Iraq brought him to 15, tying with Brazil's Ronaldo Nazário, and the second to 16, matching Klose .
Messi's earlier goals set the stage for Mbappé's answer . The Argentine's two goals against Austria pushed him past Klose,making him the top World Cup scorer ever. But Mbappé's swift response kept things tight,just two goals behind . At 27,his World Cup scoring rate impresses,hinting at more to come.
This duel between them is something. Messi nears 39 on June 24,while Mbappé's youth makes him a strong scoring title contender . His game against Iraq showed his talent and his importance to France.
Now with 100 caps for "Les Bleus," Mbappé has been key to France's tournament push. Each game solidifies his place among World Cup greats. With Klose equaled, next up: Lionel Messi...
