How Many Goals Will Lionel Messi Score at the 2026 World Cup?

Messi’s Goal Prospects in the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup has arrived, bringing the world's attention back to soccer's biggest stage. Among the stars is Lionel Messi, often hailed as the greatest player ever. Fans and analysts alike wonder how many goals Messi will net this time around.

This tournament marks a first in the United States, where prediction markets allow fans to trade on Messi’s World Cup performance in real-time. Various markets are open, offering chances to bet on Messi’s total goals, whether he will win the Golden Boot, lead Argentina’s scoring, or outperform Cristiano Ronaldo in goal contributions.

Chasing the Golden Boot

The Golden Boot goes to the tournament’s top scorer. Messi has never claimed this honor but came close in 2022 by winning the Silver Boot after scoring seven goals. Those looking to wager on Messi’s chances can use the Kalshi promo code TSNEWS for a $10 bonus after trading $10.

Argentina’s Leading Scorer

Messi stands as Argentina’s all-time leading goal scorer with 117 international goals before the 2026 competition starts. Betting markets also let you place odds on him finishing as Argentina's top goal scorer in this World Cup. The Polymarket promo code TSNEWS offers a $50 bonus with a $20 deposit.

Messi vs Ronaldo: Goal Contributions Battle

A popular head-to-head market pits Messi against his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo to see who records the most combined goals and assists during the tournament. In 2022, Messi had 10 goal contributions (7 goals, 3 assists), while Ronaldo managed just 1 (1 goal, no assists). Novig users can claim a $50 bonus in Novig Coins after spending $5 using promo code TSNEWS.

Kevin Wolff is a content producer specializing in prediction markets for The Sporting News. Based in South Florida and a Fordham University graduate, Kevin has experience creating sports betting content and previously worked with Pro Football Focus.