Lionel Messi Extends Lead in World Cup 2026 Golden Boot Race with Late Goal
The 2026 World Cup group stage has seen the tournament's top scorers pulling away from their rivals. Lionel Messi continues to shine, adding a late goal via a stunning free kick to push his tally to six. This came after he scored three goals against Algeria in Argentina’s opening match and followed with two more versus Austria.
By the end of group play, five players had reached at least four goals, but Messi holds a clear lead. Assists come into play as tiebreakers when goal counts are equal.
Highlights from the Group Stage
Messi’s lead faced a challenge recently. Ousmane Dembélé delivered one of the fastest hat tricks in World Cup history, scoring three goals in just 32 minutes against Norway. This quick burst brought him level with teammate Kylian Mbappé, who also scored four goals and provided two assists during group matches. Mbappé won the Golden Boot in 2022.
Vinícius Júnior from Brazil and Norway’s Erling Haaland remain close behind Messi with four goals apiece. Vinícius bagged two goals against Scotland while Haaland sat out the last game as Norway rested starters after securing advancement.
Hat tricks have been scored by Messi, Dembélé, and Canada’s Jonathan David. David’s three goals came during Canada’s historic 6-0 victory over Qatar, marking the nation’s first-ever World Cup win.
We think this race for the Golden Boot will keep evolving as knockout rounds approach. Keep an eye on the leaderboard as these stars battle to finish as the tournament’s top scorer.
