Lionel Messi Extends Lead in 2026 World Cup Scoring Race with Late Group Stage Goal

Messi Pulls Ahead in Golden Boot Race

Lionel Messi has added a late goal in the group stage to push his total to six, maintaining his lead as the top scorer at the 2026 World Cup. All six goals represent Argentina’s entire scoring output so far in the tournament.

His latest strike was a stunning free kick from outside the box, following a hat trick against Algeria and two goals against Austria earlier in the group matches.

Challengers for the Top Spot

On Friday, Ousmane Dembélé nearly closed the gap by scoring a quick hat trick within 32 minutes against Norway. That brought him level with teammate Kylian Mbappé, who also scored four goals and assisted twice during group play. Mbappé took home the Golden Boot in 2022.

Vinícius Júnior of Brazil and Erling Haaland of Norway each have four goals. Vinícius scored twice in a match against Scotland. Haaland did not start in Norway’s last group game as the team rested key players after securing their Round of 32 spot.

Hat Tricks Made Their Mark

Messi, Dembélé, and Canada’s Jonathan David each recorded hat tricks. David’s three goals helped Canada secure its first-ever World Cup victory, a 6-0 win over Qatar.

We think this scoring race will remain intense as the knockout rounds approach, and it’s worth watching who will take the Golden Boot home.