Lionel Messi has taken command of the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot race, leading the standings with eight goals and one assist following Argentina's 3-2 round-of-16 victory over Egypt on Monday.
Messi moved clear of his rivals after contributing a goal and an assist in the comeback win in Atlanta. Kylian Mbappé sits second with seven goals and two assists, while Erling Haaland, who scored twice to eliminate Brazil in the round of 32, holds third on seven goals and no assists. The award is decided by total goals, with assists serving as the first tiebreaker. Harry Kane rounds out the top four with six goals.
Mbappé had briefly drawn level with Messi after converting a penalty against Paraguay, and Kane added his sixth from the spot in England's win over Mexico. Messi currently leads the standings ahead of the quarterfinal stage.