The Golden Boot race at the 2026 World Cup is intensifying, with Vinicius Junior emerging as a strong contender alongside Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. As of June 24, 2026, Messi leads the standings with five goals, followed by Vinicius Junior, Mbappe, and Haaland each with four.
Messi Breaks All-Time Record
Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria and added both goals in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria. His first goal against Austria broke Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup finals goals, and he later scored his 18th tournament goal in stoppage time. Messi now leads the Golden Boot race with five goals and no assists.
Mbappe and Haaland Keep Pace
Kylian Mbappe scored a double against Senegal and added two more against Iraq, bringing his total to four goals. Erling Haaland also scored twice against Iraq and repeated the feat against Senegal, matching Mbappe's tally. Both players have four goals and zero assists so far.
Vinicius Junior Rises
Brazil's Vinicius Junior moved to four goals with a brace against Scotland, though he also had another goal ruled out by VAR. He is tied for second place with Mbappe and Haaland, but leads them in assists with one.
Ronaldo Silences Critics
Cristiano Ronaldo faced scrutiny for a slow start but responded with a brace in Portugal's 5-0 win over Uzbekistan. He now has two goals and is tied for 10th place with several other players.
Full Standings
The top 10 includes Deniz Undav (Germany, 3 goals, 2 assists), Jonathan David (Canada, 3 goals, 0 assists), Matheus Cunha (Brazil, 3 goals, 0 assists), Ismael Saibari (Morocco, 3 goals, 0 assists), and Johan Manzambi (Switzerland, 3 goals, 0 assists). Several players are tied with two goals and one assist, including Harry Kane, Kai Havertz, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
