Messi took over the lead in the World Cup's all-time scoring charts, first with 17 and then 18 goals, after his double against Austria. A few hours later, France's Mbappé did not want to be inferior.
Two goals from the Frenchman in France's 3–0 win over Iraq mean he shares second place with German Miroslav Klose on 16 goals, just two behind Messi.
While Lionel Messi is 38 years old and playing in the sixth - and likely last - World Cup of his career, Kylian Mbappé is eleven years younger and “only” in his third World Cup.
Argentina is already first in their group and will finish their group stage against Jordan, while France will face Norway for first place in their group.
Corrected: In a previous version there was an incorrect statement about the number of World Cup goals that Messi has scored.
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