Lionel Messi tops World Cup scoring race as Mbappé and Haaland chase

Argentina’s Lionel Messi has taken the lead in the 2026 FIFA World Cup top‑scorer race, netting five goals in his first two matches to bring his tournament total to 18. The tally surpasses former record‑holder Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who finished with 16. France’s Kylian Mbappé and Norway’s Erling Haaland follow closely, each with four goals, while the United States’ Folarin Balogun has added two.

Messi’s prolific start includes a debut goal against Algeria and a brace against Austria. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said, “He continues to amaze us, even after 20 years as the world’s best.” Mbappé stressed he is not focused on pursuing Messi’s record, saying his priority is helping the team. Haaland downplayed his finishing but acknowledged his luck in scoring. The article also recalled historic tallies, such as France’s Just Fontaine’s 13 goals in 1958 and Gerd Müller’s ten in 1970.