Rivalry Intensifies on World Stage
A new data graphic released by MAD FOOTBALL has stirred major discussion on 12BET Malaysia and global football platforms. The comparison highlights Lionel Messi’s 26 World Cup matches (13 goals, 8 assists) versus Kylian Mbappe’s rapid ascent with 12 goals and 3 assists in only 14 matches.
Fans are now questioning whether Mbappe could catch or surpass Messi’s legendary World Cup numbers within one or two more tournaments, a topic widely debated across 12BET Football forums and 12BET Promotions pages.
Comparing Their World Cup Output
Messi’s World Cup journey spanned from age 18 to 35, producing 21 total goal contributions with a rate of 0.81 per match.
Mbappe, at just 23, already has 15 direct scoring contributions, averaging 1.07 per match — a significantly higher efficiency rate celebrated by bettors on 12BET Login.
Many on 12BET Malaysia argue that Mbappe’s explosiveness, pace, and finishing ability give him the statistical advantage to surpass Messi’s totals in far fewer matches.
Youth Advantage and Future Tournaments
Mbappe is expected to compete in at least two or three more World Cups, giving him ample time to chase historical records.
If he stays healthy and France remain competitive, surpassing Messi’s goal and assist totals appears increasingly likely — a scenario often discussed on 12BET Signup communities.
Messi, having already completed five World Cups, has minimal opportunity to expand his numbers further, making Mbappe’s pursuit even more realistic.
Honors and Legacy Paint a Different Picture
While Mbappe may overtake Messi in World Cup scoring output, overall legacy remains heavily in Messi’s favor.
Messi’s unmatched collection of Ballon d’Or titles, club trophies, international triumphs, and record-breaking milestones represent a level of achievement that Mbappe cannot reach in the short term.
Analysts on 12BET Promotions emphasize that numerical records and historical status are two separate arenas — and Messi dominates the latter.
Future Expectations for Both Superstars
Mbappe is rapidly closing the gap in pure World Cup statistics and may very well surpass Messi in the next edition or two.
However, Messi’s complete football legacy remains far more difficult to challenge.
Fans on 12BET Malaysia are excited for Mbappe’s future World Cup performances, yet remain fully aware that Messi’s status as a global icon is not defined by numbers alone.