Harry Kane has entered the early race for the World Cup 2026 Golden Boot award after scoring twice in England's 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas. The England captain netted a first-half brace as Thomas Tuchel's side opened Group L with a statement victory.
Early Golden Boot Leaders
Lionel Messi currently leads the standings after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria. The 38-year-old has now tied Miroslav Klose for the most World Cup finals goals of all time. Despite leading Argentina to glory in 2022, Messi has never won the Golden Boot, having lost out to Kylian Mbappe in Qatar four years ago.
Mbappe scored twice in France's 3-1 victory over Senegal, while Erling Haaland also netted a brace on his World Cup debut as Norway beat Iraq. Other players with two goals include Germany's Kai Havertz, Sweden's Yasin Ayari, New Zealand's Elijah Just, and USA's Folarin Balogun.
Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score as Portugal were held to a shock draw by DR Congo.
Current Standings (as of June 17, 2026)
- Lionel Messi (Argentina) - 3 goals
- Kylian Mbappe (France) - 2 goals
- Harry Kane (England) - 2 goals
- Erling Haaland (Norway) - 2 goals
- Kai Havertz (Germany) - 2 goals
- Yasin Ayari (Sweden) - 2 goals
- Elijah Just (New Zealand) - 2 goals
- Folarin Balogun (USA) - 2 goals
