A Golden Boot race for the ages - but who will come out on top?
It is fast turning into a Golden Boot race for the ages as the world's best strikers star at the World Cup. But who will come out on top?
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"With the big stars, they want the ball all the time."
— Julien Laurens , Other
"In terms of natural footballing ability, Messi is out in front, with Kylian Mbappe probably in second."
— Ally McCoist , Other
"It was a superstar day. Messi stole the show, but what performances from Mbappe and Haaland as well."
— Karen Carney , Athlete
Key People
Ally McCoist is a former Scottish professional footballer and sports commentator.
Erling Haaland is a Norwegian professional footballer known for his impressive goal-scoring record.
Harry Kane is a professional footballer and captain of the England national team.
Julien Laurens is a French football expert and commentator.
Karen Carney is a retired footballer and won the Strictly Come Dancing competition.
Kylian Mbappe is a French professional footballer known for his speed and scoring ability.
Lionel Messi is a renowned Argentine soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
All Coverage
It is fast turning into a Golden Boot race for the ages as the world's best strikers star at the World Cup. But who will come out on top?
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
How PSG's Ballon d'Or duo are pushing each other on
While there can only be one winner, team-mates Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are backing each other to win the Ballon d'Or.
September 24, 2026 at 07:02 PMRonaldo spurred on by 1,000 goals and Portugal glory
Cristiano Ronaldo contemplated retirement after the World Cup but wants to reach 1,000 career goals and help a new-look Portugal thrive before hanging up his boots.
September 23, 2026 at 04:26 PMPickford or Trafford? The battle to be England's number one is now on
Jordan Pickford has been England's number one for a long time. But does he now have a rival in James Trafford?
September 26, 2026 at 11:06 PMHunting hidden gems - is there anywhere in the world left to scout?
Through live scouting and increasing data and footage, top clubs now have tabs on a large proportion of the world's talent.
September 23, 2026 at 05:24 AMGB sniff Road Worlds chance with Pogacar absent
British riders stand a strong chance of glory at cycling's Road World Championships this weekend, with young talent beginning to blossom at elite level.
September 23, 2026 at 03:45 PMBred for success - why Backstedt can hit cycling's peaks
Zoe Backstedt won world time trial silver in Montreal aged just 21 and the multiple junior world champion plans to win much more.
September 21, 2026 at 12:57 PM