World Cup's 12 Best Goals: From Messi to Bellingham, US Media Lists Top Strikes

The 2026 World Cup, expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches, has already produced a record 307 goals before the final, with England and France leading the scoring charts.

US media outlet Yahoo Sports has curated a list of the 12 most spectacular goals of the tournament. This selection showcases the brilliance of star players like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, alongside memorable moments from unexpected teams.

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Messi's first match against Algeria saw him score a hat-trick, with his first goal being a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area, showcasing the Argentine captain's confidence and ability.

Among the highlighted goals is Messi's powerful strike against Algeria, part of his hat-trick in the opening match, demonstrating his confidence and skill. He remains a contender for the Golden Boot with 8 goals before the final.

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Mbappé, after receiving the ball in space and turning, scored from a distance in France's opening match against Senegal. This was his 14th World Cup goal, surpassing a predecessor to become France's all-time top scorer in the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappé's goal against Senegal marked his 14th in World Cup history, making him France's all-time top scorer in the tournament. He further cemented his legacy by scoring twice in the third-place playoff, bringing his total to 22, a new World Cup record.

The list also features a stunning long-range effort from Haiti's Wilson Isidor, the team's only goal in their return to the World Cup after 52 years. Norway's Erling Haaland scored a powerful low shot against Brazil, helping his team advance. Other notable goals include Giovanni Reyna's skillful chip for the USA, Julián Álvarez's decisive long-range goal for Argentina in extra time, and Amad Diallo's historic first knockout-stage goal for Ivory Coast.

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Haiti forward Wilson Isidor fired a powerful shot from outside the penalty area that went through the crowd, becoming the only goal scored by a Haitian player in this tournament after their return to the World Cup 52 years ago.

Youngster Andreas Schjelderup of Norway also impressed with a powerful shot against England, hinting at the nation's future talent. The selection concludes with Jude Bellingham's impressive solo run and strike for England in the third-place match against France, capping off a high-scoring game.

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Norway's Haaland, in the Round of 16 match against Brazil, scored with a powerful low shot that went through three defenders and goalkeeper Alisson, leading his team to advance.