Kylian Mbappe Sets New Record in FIFA World Cup Knockouts
Historic Performance by Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe made headlines by scoring the first goal for France during their Round of 32 match against Sweden at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey, breaking an 88-year-old world record. His goal, which came in the 45th minute, marked his ninth goal in knockout stage matches throughout his World Cup career. After France created numerous opportunities, Mbappe capitalized just before halftime with a remarkable finish. Following a corner earned by Michael Olisie, he received a pass from Ousmane Dembele, skillfully maneuvered past a defender, and curled the ball into the net, adding to his impressive World Cup goal tally.
Later in the match, Olisie assisted him again in the 74th minute, allowing Mbappe to score his second goal, extending France's lead to 3-0.
Kylian Mbappe's Record-Breaking Achievement
With this performance, Mbappe now holds the record for the most goals scored in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup, surpassing the previous record shared with Brazilian legends Leonidas and Ronaldo, who each netted eight goals in this phase. He has also become the first player in history to score 10 goals in knockout matches at the FIFA World Cup.
Top FIFA World Cup Knockout Goals
| Player | Goals | Years |
| Kylian Mbappe (France) | 10 | 2018-2026 |
| Leonidas (Brazil) | 8 | 1934-1938 |
| Ronaldo (Brazil) | 8 | 1998-2002 |
| Just Fontaine (France) | 7 | 1958 |
| Vava (Brazil) | 7 | 1958-1962 |
| Oldrich Nejedly (Czechoslovakia) | 7 | 1934 |
| Pele (Brazil) | 7 | 1958-1970 |
Kylian Mbappe's Knockout Stage Legacy
Mbappe's knockout stage journey began with a stellar performance against Argentina in the 2018 World Cup, where he scored twice in the round of 16. He also contributed to France's victory in the final against Croatia, netting a goal in their 4-2 win. In the 2022 World Cup, he scored two goals against Poland and completed a hat-trick in the final against Argentina, although France lost in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
With four goals in World Cup finals, Mbappe holds the record for the most goals scored by any player in this stage. He joins an elite group of five players, including Pele and Zinedine Zidane, who have scored in two different finals.
Mbappe's Position Among World Cup Greats
Currently, Mbappe has accumulated 18 goals in World Cup history, placing him second overall. He has surpassed German legend Miroslav Klose's record of 16 goals, with only Lionel Messi ahead of him at 19 goals. Additionally, Mbappe is now tied for the most goals in the ongoing 2026 World Cup, sharing the top spot with Messi, who also has six goals.