Messi Edges Mbappe Ahead Of World Cup Golden Boot Race

Lionel Messi has taken a decisive step in the Messi Golden Boot race after Argentina's dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the FIFA World Cup semi-final. The result has shifted the spotlight away from the scoreline and onto an individual battle that could define the tournament.

England looked set for the final after Anthony Gordon fired them in front during the second half. Argentina struggled to create openings, but Messi refused to let the contest drift away. His vision changed everything when he slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Enzo Fernandez, who calmly levelled the match in the closing minutes.

The pressure inside the stadium was impossible to ignore. Argentina kept pushing, while England tried to hold on. Then came another moment of quality. Messi collected the loose ball on the right before delivering a precise cross that Lautaro Martinez headed home in stoppage time, sealing a remarkable comeback.

Those two assists proved just as valuable as goals. Messi now has eight goals and four assists, putting him ahead of France star Kylian Mbappe, who sits on eight goals and three assists in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings.

Messi also extended his remarkable World Cup legacy with a record 12 career assists, adding another milestone to an already historic international career.

Sunday's final against Spain now carries even greater significance. Argentina will chase a fourth World Cup title, while Messi has the opportunity to strengthen his grip on the Messi Golden Boot race. Mbappe's tournament has ended, meaning the Argentine captain controls his own destiny with one match remaining.

The battle for football's biggest individual prize is no longer level. One more standout performance could see Messi lift both the World Cup trophy and the Golden Boot on the same night.