Kylian Mbappe has predicted that Lionel Messi will score in Argentina’s World Cup final clash against Spain, while insisting the Golden Boot race is not over despite his current lead.
Mbappe strengthened his position at the top of the tournament’s scoring charts after scoring twice in France’s dramatic 6-4 defeat to England in the bronze medal match at Miami Stadium.
The Real Madrid forward now has 10 goals at the 2026 World Cup, two ahead of Messi, who has scored eight times during Argentina’s run to the final. Mbappe has also moved ahead of Messi in the all-time World Cup scoring records, with 22 goals in his career, one more than the Argentina captain.
However, Mbappe believes Messi will close the gap when Argentina face Spain in Sunday’s final.
Speaking to French broadcaster M6, Mbappe confidently predicted that Messi would find the back of the net, saying the veteran forward scores every time.
Despite his remarkable individual achievement, Mbappe admitted he would have preferred to be competing in the World Cup final rather than holding the record as the tournament’s leading scorer.
The French forward explained that scoring so many goals at the World Cup has improved his standing among the game’s great players, but he insisted personal records were not his main focus.
The Golden Boot race remains open, with Mbappe leading on 10 goals and four assists, followed by Messi with eight goals and four assists. England’s Jude Bellingham and Norway’s Erling Haaland both have seven goals, while Ousmane Dembele and Harry Kane have scored six each.
Mbappe’s prediction came after France’s disappointing end to the tournament against England. Didier Deschamps’ side found themselves four goals behind at half-time after England produced a dominant opening period.
France responded after the break by scoring three unanswered goals and threatening an incredible comeback, but Bukayo Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Jude Bellingham sealed England’s 6-4 victory with a late solo effort.
Reflecting on the defeat, Mbappe admitted France had two different performances during the match. He acknowledged that the first half was difficult and that the team appeared stunned by England’s display.
The France captain added that the second half showed the team’s true quality as they fought back and demonstrated their character, although they were unable to complete the comeback.
Mbappe also praised Deschamps following his final match in charge of France, saying the defeat would not damage the coach’s legacy and thanking him for everything he had done for the national team.
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