Messi, Mbappe Reach 8 World Cup Goals Each as Missed Penalties Keep Final Rematch Alive
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 10
Messi, Mbappe Reach 8 World Cup Goals Each as Missed Penalties Keep Final Rematch Alive
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 10
Summary
Eight goals apiece now separate Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe from no one else, after both stars scored again despite each having a penalty saved in knockout wins for Argentina and France.
Messi’s route has been turbulent: Argentina needed a 93rd-minute winner against Egypt after trailing 2-0, and earlier survived extra time against Cape Verde with Messi repeatedly dragging them through chaos.
France’s path has been smoother, with no knockout match reaching extra time and no goals conceded in that phase; Mbappe recovered calmly from his miss against Morocco to score his 20th World Cup goal.
A minor ankle issue forced Mbappe off late as a precaution, but his celebrations suggested no serious problem ahead of a potential final meeting with Messi.
That matchup would reprise the 2022 Qatar final, where Mbappe scored a hat-trick but Messi lifted the trophy, with both now chasing a second World Cup title.
Messi's chaotic comebacks vs. Mbappé's serene dominance: which path will lead to 2026 World Cup glory?
Is France's untested dominance a bigger risk than Argentina's reliance on an emotional, 39-year-old Messi?
2026 World Cup Golden Boot Race: Messi vs. Mbappé, VAR Controversies, and the Road to a Potential Argentina-France Final
Overview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race is more intense than ever, with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi both scoring eight goals as of July 9, 2026. The tournament’s expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches has given players more chances to shine. Mbappé stands out by not only matching Messi’s goal tally but also leading in assists, thanks to his performance in France’s 2-0 semi-final win over Morocco. This fierce competition highlights how the new tournament format is shaping individual achievements and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.