League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Breaking News

Messi leads with five goals as World Cup records potentially fall

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 9:38 PM

Last updated Jun 23, 2026

Messi leads with five goals as World Cup records potentially fall

Summary

During the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi tops the goal charts with five goals for Argentina after two matches. Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are close behind with four goals each. This World Cup features a new 48-team format, increasing the chances for high goal totals. Harry Kane tied Gary Lineker's England record with ten World Cup goals against Croatia. Messi has already set a new all-time World Cup goals record with 18, while the tournament progresses to group play and predictions loom regarding future format expansions.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Latest Updates

•Lionel Messi has five goals in two matches for Argentina.
•Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland follow with four goals each.
•Harry Kane matched the England record with ten World Cup goals.
•Messi set a new all-time World Cup goals record with 18.
•The World Cup features a new 48-team format this year.

Latest Updates

9:38 PMYahoo Sports — Why Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe World Cup records aren’t that impressive

What they're saying

"
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is setting the stage for a Golden Boot race for the ages as all-time records fall like dominoes – and we have not yet reached the end of the group stages – but it all just feels a bit meh. Lionel Messi currently leads the way with five goals from his first two games for Argentina, while Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland sit just behind with four goals each.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

FIFA World Cup Soccer