Lionel Messi and Miroslav Klose are currently tied for the record of most goals scored in FIFA World Cup history [1].
This statistical deadlock arrives as the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, placing Messi in a position to become the sole record holder. The pursuit of this milestone captures global attention as one of the sport's most decorated players seeks to surpass a long-standing benchmark.
Both Messi and Klose have recorded 16 goals each in World Cup competition [1]. While Klose achieved his tally as a striker for Germany, Messi has reached the same mark through a different trajectory across multiple tournaments.
Messi is entering his sixth World Cup tournament [1]. This level of longevity is rare in international football, providing him more opportunities to extend his lead over the German legend.
The 2026 tournament is being jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico [1]. The expanded nature of the event and the shared hosting duties provide a massive stage for the goal-scoring race.
As the competition unfolds, the focus remains on whether Messi can utilize his experience to break the tie. Because both players sit at 16 goals [1], a single strike from Argentina's captain would establish a new historical precedent for the tournament.
“Messi and Klose each have 16 World Cup goals, making them joint all‑time top scorers.”
The tie between Messi and Klose represents a convergence of two different eras of football excellence. For Messi, breaking the record in his sixth tournament would solidify his legacy not just as a playmaker, but as the most prolific scorer in the history of the world's most prestigious competition.
