Kylian Mbappe Scores 19th World Cup Goal, Closing In on Messi's Record

Kylian Mbappe continues to close the gap on Lionel Messi's World Cup goal record after scoring his 19th tournament goal in France's 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the round of 16 on Saturday. Mbappe's decisive goal came in the 70th minute from a penalty awarded following a VAR-reviewed foul by Diego Gomez on Desire Doué. This goal not only secured France's advancement to the quarterfinals but also tied Mbappe with Messi at seven goals each in the current tournament, both leading the Golden Boot race.

Mbappe now stands just one goal shy of Messi's all-time World Cup record of 20 goals. Additionally, he made history as the first player to score at least three goals in the knockout stages of three different World Cups. With 19 goals in 19 World Cup appearances, Mbappe's performance has been exceptional. France's coach Didier Deschamps praised him, stating, "From the first moment, he showed the right attitude and gives everything for the team. He is an exceptional player, and when he speaks, he speaks for the entire team."

The match was intense, with Paraguay players frequently fouling Mbappe. A scuffle broke out in the first half after a tackle by Andres Cubas on Mbappe, followed by another foul from Matias Galarza. After the final whistle, a confrontation occurred when Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Chil tried to shake Mbappe's hand, which Mbappe reportedly ignored, prompting Chil to throw the ball at the French captain's back. Mbappe commented that France was prepared for Paraguay's aggressive style and managed to respond in kind to secure their place in the quarterfinals.

Currently, Mbappe holds an advantage over Messi in assists, with two compared to Messi's zero, which could be decisive if they finish tied in goals. Behind them in the Golden Boot race are Erling Haaland and Harry Kane with five goals each, followed by Ousmane Dembele, Mikel Oyarzabal, Vinicius Jr., and Ismaila Sarr with four goals each.