At the start of play on June 19, Lionel Messi sits atop the scoring chart with three goals. Seven other players are tied with two goals apiece, including pre-tournament favorites Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe.
2026 World Cup Golden Boot Leaders
As play resumed on June 19, the top of the Golden Boot chart looked like this:
- Lionel Messi: 3 goals
Seven players are level on two goals each. Named among that group are Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe.
How the Golden Boot Is Awarded
The Golden Boot goes to the player with the most goals scored at the World Cup. If players finish tied on goals, the award goes to the player or players with the most assists. Any remaining ties are settled by the player or players who logged the fewest minutes played.
USA vs Australia on Friday
Friday's Round 2 meeting with Australia carries direct knockout implications for the United States. The Americans are one victory against Australia away from clinching a place in the knockout stage, and Balogun's form in the Paraguay opener keeps him in the conversation as goals continue to reshape the Golden Boot picture.
Golden Boot Odds
Kylian Mbappe opened as the favorite to capture the Golden Boot at +550 odds. England's Harry Kane followed at +650. Lionel Messi was listed at +2000 before the tournament kicked off, with Erling Haaland at +1200. Odds have shifted since those opening lines as the group stage has progressed.
2026 World Cup Broadcast Information
All World Cup matches are being broadcast in the United States on Fox and FS1. Spanish-language coverage runs throughout the tournament on Telemundo, with streaming available on Peacock.
The 2026 World Cup is the largest edition ever staged, with 48 teams competing across 16 host cities in three countries.
