Messi Sets New World Cup Scoring Record; Group Stage Goals Hit 141
The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stages have witnessed a record number of goals, with 141 scored across the first 48 matches. This surpasses the previous high of 136 goals set during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, according to data from Optajoe.
The record was broken in the 45th group match between Portugal and Uzbekistan. With 24 additional group stage matches remaining, the total is expected to rise further.
Amid the team achievements, individual records also fell. Argentina's Lionel Messi scored his 17th and 18th goals in his team's match against Austria, overtaking Miroslav Klose as the tournament's all-time leading scorer. Messi's first goal of the match tied Klose's record, and his second goal in stoppage time set a new benchmark. Argentina advanced to the knockout stage, and Messi, likely playing in his final World Cup, may add to his tally.
France's Kylian Mbappe follows closely with 16 career World Cup goals, having scored in the group stage.
The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup, featuring 48 teams, has contributed to the increased number of group stage matches and goals.
