Messi, Mbappé and Haaland: who will win the World Cup Golden Boot?
Level on 8 goals apiece, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé top the World Cup scoring charts, with Erling Haaland right behind them on 7 goals in his very first World Cup. Here's where each star stands before the decisive rounds.
The 2026 World Cup scoring charts are set for a thrilling finish between three of the world's best forwards: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, a race that could be decided by a single goal before the tournament ends.
Messi and Mbappé: a dead heat at the top
Messi and Mbappé lead the standings with 8 goals apiece. Despite lifting the trophy at the 2022 World Cup, Messi has never won the Golden Boot at any edition, making this 2026 tournament likely his last chance to add that missing accolade to his career. Mbappé, meanwhile, is looking to repeat his feat from Qatar 2022, where he was crowned top scorer with 8 goals — which would make him the first player ever to win the Golden Boot twice.
Haaland: the sensation of a first appearance
Haaland sits third with 7 goals in his very first World Cup, after Norway spent decades away from the global stage. Just one goal behind the leading pair, the Vikings' continued run in the competition gives him further chances to add to his tally — and perhaps spring a surprise by claiming the award on his tournament debut.
What lies ahead for the trio in the coming rounds
Mbappé has already booked his spot in the semi-final against Spain on July 14, while Messi awaits the outcome of the Argentina vs Switzerland quarter-final on July 12 to find out whether he'll get further chances to score. Haaland, meanwhile, is currently playing a decisive quarter-final against England, which will determine whether he can keep chasing the leading duo into the semi-final or exits the tournament on this tally.
