The Golden Boot Race Heats Up
With 71 goals in the first 23 games, World Cup 2026 is one of the most entertaining tournaments in recent memory — and the Golden Boot race has gotten off to a flying start. Here are the contenders after the opening round of fixtures.
The Leaders
Lionel Messi (Argentina) — 3 goals
A hat-trick against Algeria put Messi on 3 goals and equalled the all-time World Cup record of 16 career goals. With Argentina expected to go deep, he is a serious Golden Boot contender in his final tournament.
Kylian Mbappe (France) — 2 goals
A double against Senegal made Mbappe France all-time top scorer. The favorite for the Golden Boot given France expected deep run and his penalty duties.
Harry Kane (England) — 2 goals
A brace against Croatia in England thrilling opener. Kane won the Golden Boot in 2018 and has the finishing and penalty duties to contend again.
The Chasing Pack
Erling Haaland scored on his World Cup debut. Vinicius Jr. scored against Morocco. Multiple players are on the goal trail in a tournament producing goals at a remarkable rate.
Our Prediction
Mbappe remains the favorite — France deep run and his penalty duties give him the most routes to goals. But Messi motivation to break the all-time record, and Kane proven tournament scoring, make this a genuine three-way race. Whoever goes furthest likely wins it.
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