Mbappe Closes In On Messi’s World Cup Record As Deschamps Predicts Historic Feat
France manager Didier Deschamps has backed Kylian Mbappé to become the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading scorer after the striker’s brace in a 3-0 victory over Iraq moved him level with former German great Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals.
Mbappe’s double in the weather-hit Group I encounter brought him within two goals of equalling the current record held by Lionel Messi, who tops the World Cup scoring charts with 18 goals and remains active at the tournament.
Speaking after the match, Deschamps expressed confidence that Mbappe has the quality and consistency to eventually surpass Messi’s mark.
“Records are there to be broken,” Deschamps said, highlighting Mbappe’s remarkable scoring rate and ability to continually raise his standards. He also compared the French star’s longevity potential with football icons Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, adding that Mbappe will keep adding goals for as long as he remains fit and motivated.
The match itself unfolded under unusual circumstances, with severe weather forcing a lengthy suspension. Mbappe’s two goals ended up being scored nearly three hours apart as players waited for conditions to improve before the game resumed.
Deschamps revealed that France’s squad focused on staying relaxed during the delay while ensuring players could properly warm up before returning to action. Although the interruption was frustrating, the coach acknowledged that safety concerns surrounding heavy rain and lightning made the decision unavoidable.
The France boss also praised Ousmane Dembélé, whose goal against Iraq opened his account at the tournament. Deschamps dismissed concerns about Dembele’s form, insisting the Ballon d’Or winner only needs time to readjust to France’s tactical setup and remains a key attacking weapon.
Already qualified for the knockout stage, France now turn their attention to the latter rounds with Mbappe edging ever closer to football history. With only two goals separating him from Messi’s benchmark, the race for the World Cup scoring record is emerging as one of the tournament’s most compelling storylines.
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