FIFA World Cup 2026 top scorers Lionel Messi and Jonathan David lead the Golden Boot race with 3 goals each. Both produced hat-tricks during the group stage, although their goals arrived under very different circumstances, as the Baltimore Chronicle editorial team notes.
Messi scored all 3 goals in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria. David matched that total during Canada’s 6-0 win against Qatar. The Canadian needed 2 matches, while Messi reached the mark in his opening appearance.
Latest FIFA World Cup 2026 top scorers
Several recognised forwards remain only 1 goal behind the leaders. The ranking recorded on June 20 included:
| Player | Country | Goals | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | Argentina | 3 | 1 |
| Jonathan David | Canada | 3 | 2 |
| Johan Manzambi | Switzerland | 2 | 2 |
| Folarin Balogun | United States | 2 | 1 |
| Kai Havertz | Germany | 2 | 1 |
| Harry Kane | England | 2 | 1 |
| Erling Haaland | Norway | 2 | 1 |
| Kylian Mbappé | France | 2 | 1 |
The ranking could change after every matchday. Players whose teams advance deep into the knockout stage will receive more opportunities to build their totals.
Who can win the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot?
Messi’s finishing and responsibility for Argentina’s set pieces make him an early favourite. David also has a strong position after becoming central to Canada’s attack on home soil.
Mbappé, Haaland and Kane remain serious challengers. Each has already scored twice, while their national teams are expected to compete for places in the later rounds.
How FIFA decides the Golden Boot winner
The award goes to the tournament’s leading scorer. When players finish level on goals, FIFA first compares their assists.
If they are still tied, the player who achieved the total in fewer minutes ranks higher. Penalty goals count in the same way as goals scored from open play.
The contest therefore depends on more than one explosive performance. Efficiency, creativity and progress through the tournament could ultimately decide the winner.
Earlier we wrote that Lacey Eden picked 5th overall in 2026 PWHL draft by Las Vegas