2026 World Cup Top Scorers: Updated Golden Boot Standings Featuring Messi, Mbappe, and Others

The group stage of the 2026 World Cup has wrapped up, ushering in the knockout rounds where every goal counts more than ever. At the summit of the scoring charts are some familiar names. Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi hold joint first place with eight goals apiece, closely pursued by Erling Haaland who has seven.

Notable Contenders and Their Odds

Before the tournament started, betting favorites included the previous two Golden Boot winners. France's Kylian Mbappe leads the odds at +330, followed by England’s captain Harry Kane at +450. Norway's Erling Haaland, despite his team’s earlier exit chances, commands attention thanks to an impressive international scoring record.

Recap of 2022 Golden Boot Winner

Kylian Mbappe made history at the 2022 World Cup, scoring a hat-trick in the final, a feat last achieved by Geoff Hurst in 1966. Despite France losing to Argentina in a penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw, Mbappe took home the Golden Boot with eight goals.

Past World Cup Golden Boot Winners

Over 22 men's World Cups, each tournament crowned a different Golden Boot winner. Some were household names; others less expected. The award doesn’t always go to the biggest stars but often to those who seize their moment.

Golden Boot Winners Who Also Won the World Cup

Only on three occasions has the Golden Boot winner also lifted the World Cup trophy. Mario Kempes did so with Argentina in 1978, Paolo Rossi for Italy in 1982, and Brazil's Ronaldo in 2002. Each scored crucial goals in the finals, sealing their teams’ victories.

Top Goal Scorers in World Cup History

Lionel Messi recently surpassed Miroslav Klose to become the all-time leading World Cup goal scorer with 19 goals. He achieved this feat by netting a hat trick against Algeria and adding another goal versus Austria in 2026.