Lionel Messi has reclaimed the lead in the Golden Boot race at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, surpassing Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. The Argentina captain scored a late goal and provided an assist as the defending champions mounted a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down with just 11 minutes remaining to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the round of 16 in Atlanta on Tuesday.
Messi's Historic Achievement
With his goal, Messi became the first player in history to score in six consecutive World Cup knockout matches. He had already broken Miroslav Klose's record for most goals in World Cup finals history earlier in the tournament. Messi's tally now stands at eight goals, placing him at the top of the scoring charts.
Mbappe and Haaland Close Behind
Kylian Mbappe had briefly drawn level with Messi after scoring a match-winning penalty against Paraguay, but he moved ahead on assists. However, Messi's latest performance restored his lead. Erling Haaland, meanwhile, added two goals to his earlier winner against Ivory Coast, helping Norway eliminate Brazil in a major upset. Both players are tied for second place with seven goals each.
Harry Kane in Contention
England captain Harry Kane also remains in the Golden Boot race, scoring his sixth goal of the tournament from the penalty spot as 10-man England defeated co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. Kane is currently fourth in the standings.
Full Golden Boot Standings
As of July 7, 2026, the top ten scorers are:
- 1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals, 1 assist
- =2. Kylian Mbappe (France) – 7 goals, 2 assists
- =2. Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7 goals, 0 assists
- 4. Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals, 1 assist
- =5. Ousmane Dembele (France) – 4 goals, 2 assists
- =5. Jude Bellingham (England) – 4 goals, 1 assist
- =5. Vinicius Jr (Brazil) – 4 goals, 1 assist
- =5. Julian Quinones (Mexico) – 4 goals, 1 assist
- =5. Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain) – 4 goals, 1 assist
- =5. Ismaila Sarr (Senegal) – 4 goals, 1 assist
