World Cup All-Time Records: Goals, Wins, and Historic Firsts
Goal Scoring Records
All-Time Top Scorer
Miroslav Klose (Germany) holds the record with 16 World Cup goals scored across 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014.
Single Tournament Record
Just Fontaine (France) scored 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup — a record that has stood for over 65 years.
Team Records
Most Titles
Brazil have won the World Cup a record five times (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002).
Biggest Win
Hungary beat El Salvador 10-1 in 1982 — the largest margin of victory in World Cup history.
Biggest Upset
USA's 1-0 win over England in 1950, and North Korea's 1-0 win over Italy in 1966 are considered the greatest upsets.
Individual Records
Youngest Scorer
Pele scored at 17 years and 239 days in 1958 — still the youngest goalscorer in World Cup history.
Most Appearances
Lothar Matthaus (Germany) appeared in 5 World Cups, playing 25 matches — the most by any outfield player.
| Record | Holder | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Most goals (all-time) | Miroslav Klose | 16 goals (2002–2014) |
| Most goals (single tournament) | Just Fontaine | 13 goals (1958) |
| Most World Cup wins | Brazil | 5 titles |
| Biggest victory | Hungary vs El Salvador | 10–1 (1982) |
| Youngest scorer | Pele | 17 years, 239 days (1958) |
| Most appearances | Lothar Matthaus | 25 matches |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has scored the most World Cup goals ever?
Miroslav Klose (Germany) holds the all-time record with 16 goals across four tournaments.
Which country has won the most World Cups?
Brazil have won five World Cups — the most of any nation.
What is the biggest upset in World Cup history?
The USA's 1-0 win over England in 1950 and North Korea beating Italy 1-0 in 1966 are considered the most shocking upsets.
Who is the youngest goalscorer in World Cup history?
Pele (Brazil) scored in 1958 aged just 17 years and 239 days — a record that still stands over 65 years later.