Mbappé eyes Messi's record in World Cup scoring race

Kylian Mbappé continues his long-distance battle with Lionel Messi at the current World Cup. The French forward is preparing for the second round group stage match against Iraq with a clear motivation: to narrow the gap on the Argentine in the tournament's all-time top scorer rankings.

Currently, Mbappé has 14 goals in 15 World Cup matches. He has already surpassed legends like Pelé and Just Fontaine, drawing level with Gerd Müller. Meanwhile, Messi, following a recent hat-trick, leads the table with 16 goals, tied at the top with Germany's Miroslav Klose.

The Frenchman will take to the pitch in Philadelphia four hours after Argentina's game against Austria. This schedule provides Mbappé with a distinct advantage, as he will know exactly how many goals are needed to catch up with his rival.

My only real desire is to lift the trophy at the end of the championship. Kylian Mbappé

Despite the individual competition, the player emphasized that team success remains the priority. He also praised Messi, describing him as the best footballer among the world's elite and affirming that his status at the highest level is indisputable.