Messi Tops Golden Boot Race Ahead of Mbappé, Haaland and Others in 2026 World Cup

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has taken an early lead in the race for the Golden Boot, the award given to the top scorer at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Inter Miami forward netted a hat‑trick in Argentina’s 3‑0 win over Group J opponents Algeria at Kansas City Stadium in the early hours of today.

His three goals bring him level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s all‑time leading scorer.

Several other prominent players are close behind Messi. Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland each scored twice in France’s 3‑1 victory over Senegal and Norway’s 4‑1 win against Iraq, respectively, on Tuesday.

World Cup top scorers so far:

Three goals: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Two goals: Folarin Balogun (USA),

Yasin Ayari (Sweden),

Kai Havertz (Germany),

Elijah Just (New Zealand),

Erling Haaland (Norway), and

Kylian Mbappé (France).