Golden Boot race intensifies as contenders heat up

Erling Haaland and Harry Kane have closed in on the top of the 2026 World Cup scoring chart after the round of 16.

Haaland scored twice against Brazil to take his tally to seven goals, drawing level with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi at the top of the standings. Kane remains one behind on six after adding another goal of his own.

The three-way tie at the summit leaves the Golden Boot race finely balanced heading into the next stage of the tournament. Kane sits fourth on his own, but remains within touching distance of the leaders.

Mbappé, Messi and Haaland are all on seven goals, with Kane on six.