Messi vs Mbappé.
Updated June 20, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial · ● Live Last updated: 2026-06-21T02:18:50Z
Direct answer
The 2022 final hat-trick story revisited — two generations meeting again in 2026.
Messi vs Mbappé
The 2022 final hat-trick story revisited — two generations meeting again in 2026.
Head-to-head
| Metric | Lionel Messi (Argentina) | Kylian Mbappé (France) |
|---|---|---|
| World Cup titles | 1 (2022) | 1 (2018) |
| 2022 final | Won 4-2 on pens | Hat-trick (losing) |
| World Cup goals | 13 | 12 |
| Ballon d'Or | 8 | 0 (likely 2026 frontrunner) |
| Born | 1987 | 1998 |
World Cup figures through Qatar 2022; career totals approximate for active players.
Related — full player profiles
The verdict
Both players appear in our top-20 World Cup legends ranking and the all-time statistics tables. Browse more matchups in the compare category.
Tables and ranking points refresh as matches finish. Standings · Match schedule · World Cup 2026
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