Messi leads Mbappe in World Cup Golden Boot race after semi-final win

Lionel Messi has edged ahead of Kylian Mbappe in the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot. The Argentina captain provided two assists in his team's 2-1 semi-final victory over France, bringing his assist total to four. He remains tied with Mbappe on eight goals for the tournament.

Mbappe, who scored eight goals during France's journey to the semifinals, has three assists. This puts him behind Messi according to the tiebreaker rules used to determine the top scorer when players have the same number of goals. The Inter Miami star, 39, now leads the standings heading into Sunday's final, where Argentina will face Spain.

Kylian Mbappe, 27, still has a chance to reclaim the lead when France plays England in the third-place playoff on Friday. A goal would put him ahead of Messi, and an assist could also be decisive if they finish with the same goal count. Messi will have one final opportunity to extend his lead in the World Cup final against Spain on July 19.

With both players guaranteed at least one more match, the battle for the tournament's top scorer remains a key storyline as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches its conclusion.