Messi leads World Cup Golden Boot race with three goals ahead of Mbappe and Haaland after early group stage matches

Argentina national team captain Lionel Messi has taken an early lead in the race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in Kansas City.

Also read: Messi Explains Emotional Tears After Argentina Win Over Algeria

The Inter Miami forward’s three goals placed him at the top of the tournament’s scoring chart as the competition’s group stage begins to take shape.

Messi’s performance also saw him draw level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose on the list of all-time World Cup scorers, further underlining his record-breaking tournament impact.

France captain Kylian Mbappe and Norway striker Erling Haaland are among the closest challengers, with both players scoring braces in their respective opening matches.

Mbappe netted twice in France’s 3-1 win over Senegal, while Haaland also scored two goals in Norway’s 4-1 victory against Iraq, keeping both stars firmly in contention.

Several other players are also on two goals, including Folarin Balogun of the United States, Yasin Ayari of Sweden, Kai Havertz of Germany, Elijah Just of New Zealand, and others.

The early standings highlight a competitive Golden Boot race as top forwards from multiple continents begin the tournament in strong form.

Also read: Messi Explains Emotional Tears After Argentina Win Over Algeria

Attention now turns to the next round of fixtures, where the leading scorers will aim to extend their advantage.