Mbappé Golden Boot race heats up as the France captain leads Lionel Messi after scoring eight goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Kylian Mbappé has moved to the top of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race after scoring his eighth goal of the tournament during France’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco on Thursday, 9 July 2026.

Also read: France Beat Morocco 2-0 to Reach World Cup Semi-Final

The France captain’s latest strike helped Les Bleus secure a place in the semi-finals and gave him the edge over Argentina legend Lionel Messi in the race for the tournament’s top scorer award.

Mbappé had an opportunity to open the scoring earlier in the match after winning a first-half penalty, but his spot-kick was comfortably saved by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

The 27-year-old, however, responded in the second half with a moment of individual brilliance, curling a superb effort past Bounou in the 60th minute to break the deadlock.

Ousmane Dembélé added France’s second goal six minutes later, sealing victory and sending Didier Deschamps’ side into the final four.

Mbappé and Messi both sit on eight goals in the competition, but the French forward currently holds the advantage with two assists, placing him ahead in the Golden Boot standings.

The race remains open, with Norway striker Erling Haaland also among the leading contenders after scoring seven goals at the tournament.

Mbappé’s latest achievement adds to an already remarkable World Cup record. The forward was instrumental in France’s 2018 triumph and played a key role in their run to the 2022 final, where he scored a hat-trick against Argentina.

Also read: France Beat Morocco 2-0 to Reach World Cup Semi-Final

As France prepare for their semi-final clash, Mbappé will look to maintain his scoring form and strengthen his bid to claim the Golden Boot, while Messi and other challengers remain within reach.