France’s Kylian Mbappé claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot after Lionel Messi failed to score in Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in Sunday’s final.
Mbappé Finishes Two Goals Clear of Messi
The France captain sealed the tournament’s top scorer award with 10 goals, finishing two ahead of Messi, who ended the competition with eight goals.
Mbappé strengthened his lead on Saturday by scoring twice in France’s third-place match against England. Although Les Bleus lost the match, his brace proved enough to secure the Golden Boot.
Messi Falls Short in World Cup Final
However, Messi could not add to his tally in the final as Spain’s disciplined defence kept the Argentina captain quiet throughout the match.
Spain lifted the World Cup trophy after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending Argentina’s title defence.
Mbappé Extends World Cup Legacy
Mbappé’s latest achievement adds to his growing World Cup legacy. He also won the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup despite France losing to Argentina in the final on penalties.
The French forward now has 22 career World Cup goals, moving ahead of Messi’s 21. Both players surpassed Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s previous men’s World Cup record of 16 goals during the tournament.
Final Golden Boot Standings
Mbappé topped the final scoring chart with 10 goals and four assists. Messi finished second with eight goals and four assists.
England’s Jude Bellingham and Norway’s Erling Haaland shared third place with seven goals each, while France winger Ousmane Dembélé completed the top five with six goals and two assists.
