Kylian Mbappe Surpasses Ronaldo’s World Cup Record with Two Goals in France’s 3-0 Victory Over Sweden
Kylian Mbappe has overtaken Brazilian legend Ronaldo in the World Cup record books after an outstanding display in France’s commanding 3-0 win against Sweden. The Real Madrid star scored twice, securing Les Bleus a spot in the round of 16 with authority.
Mbappe Sets New Knockout Stage Scoring Record
The historic moment came just before halftime. After a slick one-two with Ousmane Dembele, Mbappe outpaced Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres and fired a powerful shot past goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. This goal marked Mbappe’s ninth in World Cup knockout matches, breaking the previous record held by Brazilian greats Leonidas and Ronaldo.
“I’m very aware of who I am, how I play, what I shall do, but it’s not just about me,” Mbappe said. “The entire team knows what must be done. A new phase of the competition begins now. We played well, but we were cautious. We could have started stronger.”
Closing in on Messi’s Golden Boot and World Cup Records
Mbappe wasn’t done. Early in the second half, Bradley Barcola doubled France’s lead, setting the stage for Mbappe’s second goal in the 74th minute. Receiving a precise pass from Michael Olise, Mbappe calmly placed the ball into the far corner, sealing the victory.
This strike brought Mbappe’s tournament tally to six goals, tying him with Argentina’s Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup. More impressively, Mbappe now has 18 career World Cup goals, just one shy of Messi’s all-time record of 19.
A Heartfelt Salute to Coach Didier Deschamps
Right after the record-breaking goal, Mbappe ran to celebrate with coach Didier Deschamps, who had returned to the sidelines following the loss of his mother. The moment highlighted the strong bond within the French squad as they prepare for the tougher stages ahead.
“He knows he will never be alone with us, and we will support him,” Mbappe said. Deschamps responded, “We’re on a mission – and so am I with them.”
Next Challenge: Paraguay in the Round of 16
France’s triumph over Sweden was their largest knockout-stage win since defeating Brazil in the 1998 final. Their next test comes against Paraguay on July 4 in Philadelphia. With Mbappe in such fine form and the team firing on all cylinders, Les Bleus appear ready to challenge for the title as the tournament’s final rounds begin in North America.
