Lionel Messi vs Kylian Mbappé: Argentina captain breaks World Cup record to seize Golden Boot lead

Lionel Messi leads the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race with 8 goals and 4 assists, ahead of Kylian Mbappé on tiebreakers.

Messi recorded two assists in Argentina's 2-1 semi-final comeback win over England, moving past Mbappé in the standings.

Mbappé remains the closest contender with 8 goals, and will play in the third-place playoff against England along with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.

Messi's four assists this tournament brought his career World Cup assist record to 12, the highest since Opta records began.

Erling Haaland is eliminated from the race after Norway's quarter-final exit.