Messi, Mbappe, Haaland in Golden Boot Race at World Cup 2026
The Golden Boot Race Heats Up
The race for the Golden Boot at World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be one for the history books.
After just two games, Argentina talisman Lionel Messi leads the way with five goals, followed by France’s Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland of Norway with four goals each.
Top Scorers After Two Games
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) - 5 goals
- Erling Haaland (Norway) - 4 goals
- Kylian Mbappe (France) - 4 goals
- Deniz Undav (Germany) - 3 goals
- Jonathan David (Canada) - 3 goals
The Impact of Scoring Rate
The stars are all shining and, given the rate of scoring so far, it seems possible double figures might be needed to win the Golden Boot, something done only three times in history.
At the 2006 World Cup in Germany and in South Africa four years later, only five goals were needed to claim the Golden Boot while nobody has scored more than eight in the past 13 editions.
Why Have So Many Goals Been Scored?
One reason for the increase in goals might be the Adidas Trionda ball, which FIFA commissioned for this World Cup.
The controversial addition of hydration breaks to each half may also mean players are performing at their peak for longer, leading to the glut of late goals so far.
Who Is Likely to Win the Golden Boot?
Much will depend on fitness and, of course, how deep a country goes in the tournament, but Messi has to be considered the favourite to win his first accolade.
Mbappe also looks likely to have a favourable run and is likely to feature against Norway on Friday in the group finale.