Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe Lead Updated 2026 FIFA World Cup Scoring Race Entering Round of 16

Lionel Messi took sole possession of the Golden Boot lead after Argentina's Friday night thriller against Cape Verde in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Messi scored early in regulation of Argentina's 3-2 extra-time win in Miami to record his tournament-best seventh goal heading into the Round of 16.

The Argentinian star has now scored 12 times in his last eight World Cup games to increase his all-time tournament scoring record to 20 career goals.

France's Kylian Mbappé ranks second in the scoring race with six goals, while Norway's Erling Haaland and England's Harry Kane have recorded five apiece through the Round of 32.

Mbappé claims the overall lead in goal contributions with eight, while his teammate Michael Olise leads the tournament with five assists.

Messi ranks second in total goal contributions with seven after the Round of 32.

The knockout round of the World Cup continues Saturday as two Round of 16 games get underway in the United States.

Canada and Morocco face off at 1 p.m. ET in Houston before Mbappé and France take on Paraguay at 5 p.m. ET in Philadelphia.

Sunday will see Haaland and Norway take on Brazil in New Jersey before Kane and England face Mexico in Mexico City. Messi and Argentina will return to action with a Tuesday match against Egypt in Atlanta.