Kylian Mbappe breaks Ronaldo's World Cup record with brace against Sweden

Kylian Mbappe has officially moved past Brazilian legend Ronaldo in the World Cup history books. The Real Madrid superstar delivered a masterclass performance in France’s 3-0 demolition of Sweden, securing Les Bleus a spot in the round of 16.

The record-breaking moment arrived in the 45th minute. After a sharp give-and-go with Ousmane Dembele, Mbappe crossed over Viktor Gyokeres before rifling a finish past goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. The goal was Mbappe’s ninth in the knockout stages of the World Cup, breaking the record previously shared by Leonidas and Ronaldo.

I'm very aware of who I am, how I play, what I shall do, but it's not just about me. The entire team is aware of what should be done. It is a new competition that has started today. Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe wasn't finished. After Bradley Barcola doubled the French lead, Mbappe added a third in the 74th minute, latching onto a pass from Michael Olise to finish expertly into the far corner. This strike was his sixth of the 2026 tournament, moving him level with Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race. With 18 total World Cup goals, he now sits just one behind Messi’s record of 19.

The match also featured an emotional tribute to head coach Didier Deschamps, who returned to the dugout following his mother’s funeral. The French squad’s show of unity highlighted their focus as they head into the next stage.

France will now face Paraguay in a crucial round of 16 match in Philadelphia on July 4.