2026 World Cup: FIFA issues Golden Boot update as Mbappe, Messi chase award

FIFA has confirmed that France captain Kylian Mbappé holds the advantage over Argentina skipper Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup, with both on eight goals but Mbappe having three assists to Messi's one. Norway's Erling Haaland is next with seven goals, while England teammates Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane have six each. FIFA clarified that assists and then minutes played are the tiebreakers if goals are level. The semi-finals remain, giving both stars a chance to add to their tallies.