Mbappé leads the race for the Golden Boot, Messi can still do it

According to Sports.

Context

Kylian Mbappé, born in 1998, has proven to be one of the best strikers in the world, with a total of 22 career goals at the World Cup. His performance in the current tournament led him to equal a historic record, making him an undisputed protagonist of this 2026 World Cup. The rivalry with Messi not only enriches the competition, but also the story of modern football.

Why it matters

The race for the Golden Boot between Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi has become one of the most exciting aspects of this 2026 World Cup. The performance of Mbappé, who scored two goals against England, not only put him at the top of the scoring charts, but also underlined his growing importance in the world football scene. The possibility that Mbappé becomes the first player to win the award two consecutive editions adds further tension to this competition.

Key points

  • Mbappé leads the race for the Golden Boot, Messi can still.
  • The race for the Golden Boot will be decided in the last match of the tournament, with Mbappé ahead of Messi.
  • Over to you, Messi - Mbappe leads Golden Boot race for the ages - Yahoo Sports.
The race for the Golden Boot of this edition of the World Cup promises to be one of the most exciting in history, with a thrilling finale that will be played in the last match of the tournament. France forward Kylian Mbappé recently scored two goals in his team's stunning 6-4 defeat to England, taking him to ten goals and two goals ahead of Lionel Messi. However, the Argentine champion will have one last opportunity to overcome his rival in the final match against Spain. If Messi manages to score two goals in the final, he will win the Golden Boot thanks to more assists. On the contrary, if he fails to do so, Mbappé, born in 1998, would become the first player in the history of the tournament to win the award for two consecutive editions. The competition between the two is not limited only to the Golden Boot, but also to the ranking of all-time goalscorers in the World Cup: Mbappé is currently leading with 22 goals, while Messi follows him just one point behind. Image Mbappé's double strike in the final match made him the player with the most goals in a single World Cup this century, equaling the feat of Gerd Müller in 1970, who was the last to reach double figures. Prior to this tournament, only eight players had scored eight or more goals in a single World Cup, including legends such as Just Fontaine and Ronaldo. The 2026 World Cup saw many stars shine, including Jude Bellingham, who scored a goal against France, moving him into third place in the Golden Boot rankings with seven goals, the most ever scored by an Englishman in a single tournament. Bellingham has overtaken Erling Haaland on assists, while England captain Harry Kane and Frenchman Ousmane Dembélé trail with a goal less. The final of this World Cup therefore promises to be a real spectacle, not only for the awarding of the title, but also for the challenge between two of the best players ever, with the world of football eagerly waiting to find out who will come out on top in this exciting race for the Golden Boot.

What happens now

With the final match of the tournament in sight, Messi will have the opportunity to respond to Mbappé in the final against Spain. If the Argentine manages to score two goals, he could surpass the Frenchman thanks to the number of assists. This finale will not only determine the winner of the Golden Boot, but will also have a significant impact on the all-time World Cup scoring charts, where Mbappé and Messi are currently separated by just one goal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the final score of the France vs England match?

The match between France and England ended with a score of 6-4 in favor of England.

How does the France-England match affect the race for the Golden Boot?

Kylian Mbappé scored two goals in the match, taking him to ten goals, while Lionel Messi has the chance to surpass him in the final against Spain.

What is Mbappé's current position in the World Cup scoring charts?

Kylian Mbappé is currently leading the all-time World Cup scorers list with 22 goals.

When will Messi's next match be played?

Lionel Messi will play in the final against Spain, which represents his last opportunity to win the Golden Boot.

Who is second in the race for the Golden Boot after Mbappé?

Lionel Messi is currently second in the race for the Golden Boot, two goals behind Mbappé.

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