2026 World Cup Golden Boot Standings: Updated Top Scorers Including Messi and Mbappe

The group stage of the 2026 World Cup has wrapped up, shifting the spotlight to intense knockout matches. At the forefront of the tournament’s scoring charts are some of soccer’s elite. For a second straight World Cup, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe hold the top two spots, with Erling Haaland closely trailing behind.

Current Leading Goal Scorers

Before the tournament, Kylian Mbappe was the favorite to claim the Golden Boot according to DraftKings Sportsbook, followed closely by England captain Harry Kane. Norway’s Erling Haaland boasts a prolific international scoring rate, which makes him a strong candidate despite Norway not being among the deepest teams in the competition. Spain’s central forward Mikel Oyarzabal is also favored over veterans Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both competing in their sixth World Cups.

Recap: 2022 World Cup Golden Boot Winner

Kylian Mbappe made history by scoring a hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final, the first since Geoff Hurst in 1966. Although France lost to Argentina in penalties after a thrilling 3-3 match, Mbappe’s eight goals earned him the Golden Boot, following his four-goal debut in 2018.

All-Time World Cup Golden Boot Winners

Since the first World Cup in 1930, the Golden Boot has been awarded 22 times to different players. The list includes some unexpected names rather than just the sport’s biggest stars.

Golden Boot Winners Who Also Took Home the World Cup

Out of 22 tournaments, only three Golden Boot winners also won the World Cup in the same year. Mario Kempes led Argentina to victory in 1978, scoring twice in the final. Paolo Rossi helped Italy claim the 1982 title with goals including one in the final. Then, Ronaldo starred for Brazil in 2002, netting both goals in the final against Germany.

Highest Scorers in World Cup History

Lionel Messi now holds the record for the most World Cup goals with 19, surpassing Miroslav Klose's 16 during the 2026 tournament. Messi reached this milestone by scoring a hat trick against Algeria and another goal versus Austria early in the event.