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World Cup 2026 Golden Boot Race: Messi Leads Scoring Chart After Last-16 Matches
Lionel Messi has moved back to the top of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland after the Round of 16.
The battle for the Golden Boot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified following the completion of the Round of 16, with Argentina captain Lionel Messi returning to the top of the goalscoring standings.
Messi moved ahead of his rivals after playing a decisive role in Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt, scoring once and providing an assist as the reigning champions fought back from two goals down to reach the quarter-finals.
The goal lifted Messi’s tally to eight for the tournament, placing him one clear of France’s Kylian Mbappe and Norway’s Erling Haaland, who have each scored seven times.
England striker Harry Kane is also keeping pace in the race after taking his tally to six goals in England’s dramatic win over Mexico.
With the tournament now entering the quarter-final stage, the race for the Golden Boot remains wide open, as the competition’s top four scorers are all still in contention for football’s prestigious individual award.
2026 FIFA World Cup Top Scorers (After Round of 16)
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals (1 assist)
- Kylian Mbappe (France) – 7 goals (2 assists)
- Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7 goals
- Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals (1 assist)
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