Golden Boot race: Messi and Mbappe lead 2026 World Cup, Haaland just behind

The Golden Boot race at the 2026 World Cup has not disappointed, with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland one-upping each other all tournament long. The race is coming down to the wire as the tournament reaches its closing stages. Mbappe went level with Messi atop the leaderboard Thursday, scoring his eighth goal of the tournament in France's quarterfinal win over Morocco. But Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are right behind with seven and six goals, respectively, as Norway and England face off in a quarterfinal Saturday, July 11. Messi and Argentina will face Switzerland on Saturday in the second game of a quarterfinal doubleheader. Mbappe and Messi are also in a battle for the most goals ever at a World Cup. Messi has set the record at this tournament, reaching 21 after his goal against Egypt in the round of 16. But Mbappe hit back with his 20th career goal in France's win over Morocco. Mbappe won the Golden Boot in 2022 with eight goals, as Messi finished in second with seven. Follow along as USA TODAY tracks all of the top scorers. 2026 World Cup Golden Boot leaders The Golden Boot is awarded to the player with the most goals scored at the World Cup. Ties are broken by the player, or players, with the most assists. Further ties are broken by the player, or players, with the fewest minutes played.