World Cup goal leaders: Kylian Mbappé overtakes Lionel Messi in Golden Boot race; Erling Haaland, Harry Kane close behind

The stars have been out at the 2026 World Cup. We're now in the knockout rounds, and the tournament's top scorers are distancing themselves from the pack. We've been tracking the race for the Golden Boot,
The New York Times

Kane, Messi, Mbappe and other stars are dominating this World Cup. That is not normal

The biggest names are delivering big performances Photos: Jay Barratt, Hector Vivas, Dan Mullan, Mark Smith, Maja Hitij/Getty Images; Will Tullos/The Athletic Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app. The World Cup ...
Soccer Laduma

Mbappe & Messi Headline 2026 WC Golden Boot Race

The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot is reaching boiling point, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe shattering all-time scoring records.

2026 World Cup Odds: Mbappé, Messi Duel In Golden Boot Race; Kane Chasing

The superstars have shined at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far. Check out the latest Golden Boot odds after Kylian Mbappé's brace against Sweden.
The Economist

Messi, Mbappé, Ronaldo: this World Cup belongs to the superstars

Sometimes the best footballers flop at World Cups. On the grandest stage they can turn out not to be the best after all, champions of hype rather than talent. Not in 2026: this competition has been dominated by the sport’s titans.

FIFA World Cup 2026 stats: Mbappe tops Messi, beats Ronaldo record; Olise one behind Pele; Haaland 25 in 13

ESPN's By The Numbers brings you best stats from the World Cup action on June 30.