Kylian Mbappe has earned one of the highest tributes possible from a footballing great as France continue their impressive run at the 2026 World Cup. Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario has lavished praise on the Real Madrid forward after witnessing him notch four goals and two assists in his first three appearances at this summer’s tournament across North America.

Mbappe draws admiration from a legend

For years, Mbappe has been viewed as the natural successor to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Yet it is the original Ronaldo – famously known as O Fenomeno – who has now recognised something of himself in the French striker’s style and spirit.

After a sensational start to the 2026 World Cup, where Mbappe has remained the focal point of Didier Deschamps’ attacking line, the Brazilian great could not contain his admiration for the 25-year-old’s blend of speed, power, and precision.

The 2002 World Cup champion remarked that Mbappe’s ability to fuse explosive pace with ruthless finishing recalls the qualities that once made Ronaldo the most feared attacker in world football for nearly a decade.

‘A true heir to football’s greats’

Mbappe began his scoring spree at the 2026 World Cup with a double against Senegal, before repeating the feat with another brace in the following match against Iraq. Although he did not score in France’s encounter with Norway, he remained influential by supplying two assists in a performance that highlighted the depth and creativity of Les Bleus’ attack.

Once again, Mbappe is in contention for both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball, competing alongside Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi. The Brazilian legend admitted he has been mesmerised by both players’ excellence.

Speaking to L'Equipe, Ronaldo said, “You must also think about the legacy you leave behind. But there’s no doubt these two players go beyond statistics and deserve to be the top scorers in the history of the competition. Messi remains one of the greatest of all time and still makes the difference today. As for Mbappe, his playing style reminds me of myself at my best. He is among the finest footballers in the modern game and a natural heir to the legends of football.”

Real Madrid’s World Cup impact

Mbappe is not the only Real Madrid player making headlines across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Spanish club currently lead all teams in total goals scored at the tournament, with their players combining for 11 strikes. Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. have each scored four times, contributing the majority of that tally.

Other Real Madrid stars have also made their mark, with Jude Bellingham netting twice for England and Arda Guler adding a goal for Turkey. This impressive collective effort has put the club on the verge of surpassing their own record of 12 goals scored by Madrid players at the 1998 World Cup held in France.

France’s path ahead

France sailed through the group stage of the 2026 World Cup with a flawless record in Group I, achieving victories over Senegal, Iraq, and Norway while scoring 10 goals in three matches.

Les Bleus will now face Sweden in the Round of 32 as they chase a third consecutive appearance in the World Cup final.