Home / Sports / Messi Edges Closer to Golden Boot
Messi Edges Closer to Golden Boot
16 Jul
Summary
- Messi leads the Golden Boot race after two assists.
- He surpassed Mbappé on tiebreakers with eight goals.
- Argentina advances to the World Cup final against Spain.
Lionel Messi has taken the lead in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot standings following Argentina's dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over England. Messi's two assists in the match were decisive, moving him ahead of France's Kylian Mbappé on the tournament's official tiebreakers. He currently has eight goals and four assists.
Argentina will now compete in the World Cup final against Spain at New York New Jersey Stadium. Messi's performance has been a cornerstone of Argentina's title defense, with the captain contributing directly to Argentina's attacking output throughout the tournament. His World Cup career assist tally has also reached a record 12.
While Messi leads, the Golden Boot race is not yet finalized. Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Jude Bellingham still have a chance to score in the third-place playoff. However, Messi holds the advantage heading into the final match.
