The first two rounds of 2026 World Cup group-stage fixtures are in the books, and the tournament continues to provide plenty of thrilling moments. Despite a lack of eye-catching fixtures on paper in the new, expanded format, there has been drama aplenty, with all the big names showing up for their respective countries on football's biggest stage.
The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars
Kevin De Bruyne has issued a stark warning to his Belgium team-mates, admitting the squad has failed to meet expectations during a stuttering World Cup campaign. The Red Devils face the very real prospect of a group-stage exit after failing to win either of their opening two fixtures in North America.
Manchester City and Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has become a father for the first time after welcoming a baby boy during the World Cup. The 24-year-old was granted special leave from the Red Devils' camp in the United States to travel to London for the birth of his son.
England striker Ollie Watkins has staunchly defended Jeremy Doku following widespread criticism over the Belgian winger's decision to leave the World Cup to attend the birth of his first child. Watkins hit back at viral comments labelling childbirth as a "disgusting moment", insisting that welcoming a firstborn is a blessing that transcends football.
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Doncaster Rovers Belles
