Golden boot battle heats up: Mbappé edges Messi in scoring race
USA: With only four matches remaining in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the race for the Golden Boot has reached a thrilling climax. France star Kylian Mbappé has moved to the top of the standings after scoring in Les Bleus’ 2-0 quarterfinal win over Morocco. Although he is level with Lionel Messi on eight goals, Mbappé holds the advantage on assists.
Messi missed the chance to regain the outright lead after failing to score in Argentina’s 3-1 quarterfinal victory over Switzerland, keeping the contest wide open ahead of the semifinals.
Norway’s Erling Haaland, who remains on seven goals, is out of the running following his side’s quarterfinal defeat to England. Meanwhile, England have strengthened their challenge with Jude Bellingham climbing to six goals after his latest brace, drawing level with captain Harry Kane. France’s Ousmane Dembélé also remains in contention with five goals.
With the semifinals and final still to come, every goal could prove decisive as football’s biggest stars battle for the tournament’s top scorer award.
