5 players favourites to win the Golden Boot at 2026 World Cup

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With the expanded 48-team format offering more matches and more scoring opportunities, the race for the Golden Boot could be one of the most competitive in World Cup history.

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Here are five players widely regarded as the leading contenders:

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1. Kylian Mbappé (France)

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The favourite heading into the tournament, Mbappé won the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup with eight goals and already has 12 World Cup goals despite being only 27. As France’s primary attacking threat and penalty taker, he enters the tournament in prolific form.

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2. Harry Kane (England)

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The 2018 Golden Boot winner remains one of international football’s deadliest finishers. England are expected to make a deep run, and Kane’s role as chief goalscorer and penalty taker gives him a strong chance of becoming the first player to win the award twice.

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3. Erling Haaland (Norway)

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Making his World Cup debut, Haaland arrives with a fearsome scoring record for club and country. While Norway are not among the favourites to win the tournament, the Manchester City striker is capable of

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scoring heavily against any opposition.

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4. Lamine Yamal (Spain)

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The teenage sensation is not a traditional centre-forward, but Spain’s attacking style and expected deep tournament run could provide plenty of opportunities. Many analysts view him as a potential breakout star capable of challenging for both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.

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5. Julián Álvarez (Argentina)

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With Argentina among the favourites again, Álvarez could benefit from leading the line for a team packed with creators. He is widely viewed as a dark-horse contender who could emerge as the tournament’s surprise top scorer.

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