7M - Harry Kane Matches Lionel Messi in Historic World Cup Penalty Record

England forward Harry Kane has equaled a historic tournament record held by Lionel Messi after converting a penalty kick in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L fixture against Croatia. According to statistical data from expert MisterChip, which strictly excludes penalty shootouts following extra time, both players now share the record for the most penalties taken in World Cup history.

The successful strike marks Kane's sixth penalty attempt on the world stage. Out of those six opportunities, the English striker has successfully converted five goals, missing the target only once when his attempt went wide. Messi shares the top spot with six penalties taken, having scored four times while seeing two of his efforts saved by opposing goalkeepers.

The elite list of players with the most regular-play World Cup penalties taken stands as follows:

Lionel Messi: 6 taken (4 goals, 2 saved)

Harry Kane: 6 taken (5 goals, 1 missed wide)

Eusebio: 4 taken (4 goals)

Rob Rensenbrink: 4 taken (4 goals)

Gabriel Batistuta: 4 taken (4 goals)

Cristiano Ronaldo: 4 taken (3 goals, 1 saved)

Asamoah Gyan: 4 taken (2 goals, 1 hit the post, 1 hit the crossbar)

While Kane and Messi currently share the ultimate standard for spot-kicks, Cristiano Ronaldo remains in a position to challenge their spot at the top. The Portuguese international has stepped up to the spot four times across his World Cup career, leaving him just two attempts away from joining the leading duo before the conclusion of the 2026 tournament.