Miroslav Klose Tips Lionel Messi to Break World Cup Scoring Record in 2026
Published June 13, 2026
German legend Miroslav Klose, the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorer, believes Lionel Messi is poised to surpass his record at the upcoming 2026 tournament. Klose expressed admiration for Messi and welcomed the potential milestone.
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As the anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, one of football's most iconic records could be on the verge of falling. Miroslav Klose, Germany's legendary striker and the current holder of the all-time World Cup scoring record with 16 goals, has openly stated his expectation that Lionel Messi will eclipse his remarkable achievement during the expanded tournament.
Klose, who now manages FC Nurnberg, shared his sentiments, expressing genuine admiration for the Argentine superstar. Messi currently sits three goals shy of Klose's record, having netted 13 times across his five previous World Cup appearances. The German icon, known for his clinical finishing, views Messi as the rightful heir to the scoring crown, particularly given the new 48-team format which will feature more matches and, consequently, increased opportunities for goal-scorers.
The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup, designed to accommodate more nations and matches, inherently creates a fertile ground for new records. Klose acknowledged this factor, noting that more games naturally lead to more chances for players to find the back of the net. He also highlighted Argentina and France as teams he expects to go deep into the competition, further increasing Messi's potential to add to his tally. Klose's gracious outlook underscores a mutual respect among football's elite, as he openly roots for a player he considers a personal favorite to etch his name into World Cup history.