FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot Race: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland among top contenders

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered its knock-out stage. And with teams battling for a place in the Round of 16, several players have showcased exceptional goal-scoring ability.The race for the Golden Boot is currently led by Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, followed by French forwards Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé in second and third place, respectively.

Brazil's Vinícius Júnior has also made his mark on the tournament, occupying fourth place, while Norway's Erling Haaland rounds off the top five.

Here's a look at the leading contenders:

Lionel Messi

Messi kicked off the tournament in emphatic fashion with a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match, followed by a brace against Austria in their second group-stage fixture.Even in the third game against Jordan, the Argentine captain came on as a substitute but still managed to leave his mark, scoring from a free-kick in the 80th minute.

Argentina will now face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on July 4.

Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé

France's attacking duo of Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé have been in outstanding form, leading the team's attack with impressive goalscoring displays while dominating their opponents throughout the group stage.With four goals apiece, the two strikers occupy second and third place in the Golden Boot standings. France will take on Sweden in their Round of 32 clash on July 1.

Vinícius Júnior

In the absence of football maestro Neymar for much of the group stage, Vinícius Júnior stepped up brilliantly.The 25-year-old scored braces in two consecutive matches, playing a key role in Brazil's impressive campaign. Brazil will face Japan in the Round of 32 on Monday, with the Real Madrid forward expected to feature.

Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland has been instrumental in Norway's World Cup campaign. With braces in Norway's opening two matches, he remains firmly in contention for the Golden Boot. Norway will take on Ivory Coast in the Round of 32 on July 30.

Top 5 players in Golden Boot race