Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal opened his FIFA World Cup 2026 account in style, scoring his first-ever goal for the Spain national football team and marking a significant moment in his rapidly rising career. The young right-winger stepped up on football's biggest stage after a frustrating outing against the Cape Verde national football team, where Spain struggled to break through in a goalless draw.
While Yamal's strike gave the much-needed fresh air to the Spanish side, there are instant comparisons drawn between Yamal and Kylian Mbappe, who is the youngest goal scorer for France.
Here are the top 5 youngest goal scorers of the FIFA World Cup 2026:
FIFA World Cup: Top 5 Youngest Goal Scorers
Pele (17y, 239d) - 1958 vs Wales
Brazilian legend Pele is still the youngest player to score in a FIFA World Cup. The teenage
sensation had set the benchmark at the 1958 World Cup. Controlling a high ball inside the penalty area with his back to goal, he flicked it over a defender with an audacious self-pass before calmly volleying home. The goal remains one of the most iconic in World Cup history and marked the arrival of a generational talent.
Manuel Rosas (18y, 93d) - 1930 vs Argentina
In the inaugural World Cup in 1930, Manuel Rosas made history for Mexico. After his penalty was initially saved, he reacted quickest to the rebound, driving the ball into the net. His goal not only secured his place among the youngest scorers but also highlighted the unpredictable drama of football's earliest global tournament.
Gavi (18y, 110d) - 2022 vs Costa Rica
Spain's midfield prodigy Gavi showcased technical brilliance in 2022. Meeting a floated cross from Alvaro Morata, he struck a sublime volley with the outside of his right foot. The ball bounced off the post and into the net, underlining his exceptional control and composure at such a young age.
Ibrahim Mbaye (18y, 143d) - 2026 vs France
One of the newest names on the list, Ibrahim Mbaye made headlines at the 2026 World Cup. Picking up a loose ball during a counter-attack, he beat a defender with a sharp step-over before unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner, announcing himself as a rising star.
Michael Owen (18y, 190d) - 1998 vs Romania
Michael Owen's breakthrough moment came in 1998 when he capitalised on a loose ball inside the box. Showing quick reactions and clinical finishing, he slotted past the goalkeeper to become one of England's youngest World Cup scorers, beginning a memorable international career.
