FIFA has confirmed that France captain Kylian Mbappé currently holds the advantage over Argentina skipper Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The world football governing body clarified the standings on Sunday as the tournament heads into the semi-final stage, with both stars locked on eight goals.
Despite being level on goals, Mbappe occupies the top spot because he has registered three assists during the competition, compared to Messi’s one.
Norway forward Erling Haaland, whose team has already exited the tournament, remains in contention with seven goals.
England teammates Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are next on the scoring chart, with both players recording six goals and one assist each.













