Ronaldo Nazário reacts as Mbappé joins Klose in all-time World Cup goals race

Ronaldo Nazário’s legacy under spotlight as Mbappé closes in on Klose’s World Cup record

Ronaldo Nazário’s name still echoes in World Cup lore after Kylian Mbappé’s latest goal tied him with Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring mark. The French striker’s rise has forced fans to re-examine the greatest-ever striker debate.

What happened?

On 18 June 2026, Kylian Mbappé scored his ninth World Cup goal to draw level with Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals in the tournament. The goal came in France’s Round of 16 clash against Argentina, a 3-1 victory that kept Mbappé’s side in the hunt for a third straight World Cup final.

Why it matters for Ronaldo Nazário

Ronaldo Nazário, Brazil’s two-time World Cup winner and all-time leading scorer in the competition with 15 goals, now sits just one behind Klose’s record. His 2002 World Cup haul-eight goals-remains the gold standard for a single tournament, a feat Mbappé has yet to match.

But the Brazilian legend’s name keeps popping up in every discussion about the greatest-ever striker. His blend of speed, power, and clinical finishing set a benchmark that Mbappé is now chasing. And while Ronaldo’s club career at Barcelona and Real Madrid cemented his status, it’s his World Cup exploits that keep him in the conversation.

The debate over the greatest-ever striker

Mbappé’s latest goal has reignited arguments over who deserves the crown. Klose, the German World Cup winner, held the record for years, but Mbappé’s relentless scoring has shifted the focus. Ronaldo’s 2002 World Cup, where he dragged Brazil to glory almost single-handedly, still stands as the pinnacle for many.

The French striker’s rise is remarkable. At 27, he’s already the second-highest scorer in World Cup history, and he’s not done yet. But Ronaldo’s legacy isn’t just about numbers-it’s about moments. His two goals in the 2002 final against Germany are etched in football history.

What comes next?

Mbappé has a chance to break Klose’s record if France reach the final. Ronaldo, now 49, isn’t chasing goals anymore, but his name will forever be linked to the debate. The next few weeks could redefine the striker pecking order.

For Ronaldo’s fans, the comparison is flattering. For Mbappé, it’s a target. And for football, it’s another chapter in the never-ending greatest-ever striker debate.