Kylian Mbappé scores 13th World Cup goal to surpass Pelé

Kylian Mbappé netted his 13th FIFA World Cup goal in the 66th minute of France's opening match against Senegal in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on June 16, 2026. The strike moved the French forward ahead of Pelé and tied Olivier Giroud's French record.

Mbappé's goal arrived after several early chances were denied, including a second‑half effort saved by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. The 57th goal of his international career equaled Olivier Giroud's tally for France.

With the strike, Mbappé matched Argentina's Lionel Messi and France's Just Fontaine on 13 World Cup goals. He now sits one goal shy of Germany's Gerd Müller and two behind Brazil's Ronaldo.

Germany's Miroslav Klose still holds the all‑time record with 16 World Cup goals. Klose's benchmark remains untouched as the tournament progresses.

Mbappé helped France lift the World Cup trophy in 2018 and reach the final in 2022. He was honoured with the Silver Ball as the tournament's second‑best player in Qatar 2022.

In attack, France were supported by Désiré Doué, Michael Olise and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé. The side entered the competition as co‑favourite alongside Spain.

Mbappé finished the previous season with 25 goals for Real Madrid in La Liga. His club form adds to his growing reputation ahead of the World Cup campaign.