Kylian Mbappé has taken the lead in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, edging ahead of Lionel Messi despite both players being level on eight goals.
FIFA confirmed the standings on Sunday as the tournament moves into the semi-final stage. Mbappé currently tops the chart due to his superior assist record, with three assists compared to Messi’s one.
Norway’s Erling Haaland remains in contention with seven goals, although his team has already been eliminated. England duo Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane follow with six goals each.
According to FIFA regulations, the Golden Boot is awarded to the tournament’s top scorer. When players are tied on goals, assists serve as the first tiebreaker, followed by total minutes played, with fewer minutes ranking higher.
With the semi-finals still to be played, both Mbappé and Messi have further opportunities to add to their tallies in what remains a closely contested race.
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