2026 World Cup: Messi Overtakes Mbappé in Top Scorer Race
Lionel Messi has overtaken Kylian Mbappé in the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot race, leading on assists after both players finished the semi-finals with eight tournament goals.
Sports news.
Lionel Messi has overtaken Kylian Mbappé in the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot race, leading on assists after both players finished the semi-finals with eight tournament goals.
Lionel Messi says Argentina’s success comes from competitiveness, confidence and determination after the world champions staged a comeback against England to reach the 2026 World Cup final.
Lionel Messi dedicated Argentina’s dramatic World Cup semi-final victory over England to Diego Maradona, calling the triumph a special gift as the reigning champions advanced to another final.
Lionel Messi now leads the 2026 World Cup dribbling chart with 24 successful dribbles, overtaking Spain's Lamine Yamal.
Argentina reportedly found Jordan Pickford's penalty notes after eliminating England, adding an interesting twist ahead of the World Cup final.
Lionel Messi rejected claims of FIFA favouritism after Argentina defeated England, insisting the world champions earned their success through unity and hard work ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.
Argentina fought back from a goal down to defeat England 2-1 through late goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, securing a World Cup final showdown against Spain on Sunday.
Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions after England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, insisting criticism was inevitable and reaffirming his commitment to remain manager through Euro 2028.
Argentina could face FIFA sanctions after players displayed a Falklands banner following their World Cup semi-final victory over England, reviving political tensions despite calls to keep football separate from politics.
Sergio Aguero believes Argentina’s unity gives them an advantage over England, claiming the Three Lions often argue during difficult moments ahead of their World Cup semi-final showdown with Messi’s side.
Argentina’s Vice President Victoria Villarruel called the English “pirates” before the World Cup semi-final, while coach Lionel Scaloni insisted the encounter should remain strictly a football match.
John Mikel Obi dismissed claims that FIFA is favouring Lionel Messi, insisting Argentina earned their World Cup progress through results and accusing Cristiano Ronaldo supporters of fuelling the rumours.