Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Lionel Messi leads Golden Boot race in 2026 World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 1:40 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Lionel Messi leads Golden Boot race in 2026 World Cup

Summary

As the 2026 World Cup unfolds, Lionel Messi tops the goal-scoring charts with five goals. Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Vinicius Junior closely trail him in the hunt for the Golden Boot. Historically, just Fontaine holds the record with 13 goals in a single tournament. Messi's current tally would have secured him the award in past tournaments with fewer matches. The tournament, now featuring 48 teams, raises the potential for new records as players continue to compete vigorously.

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By the Numbers

•Messi has five goals so far in the tournament.
•Kylian Mbappe has four goals, enhancing his bid for a second Golden Boot.
•Just Fontaine's record of 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup remains unbeaten.
•The World Cup format has expanded to 48 teams, increasing scoring opportunities.
•Previous high-scoring records in this century are held by Ronaldo and Mbappe, each with eight goals.

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1:40 PMYahoo Sports — The most goals scored in a single World Cup tournament

What they're saying

"
The 2026 World Cup has seen the big names make a blistering start in the race for the tournament's Golden Boot.Lionel Messi leads from the front with five goals, with Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, an...
— Yahoo Sports

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