Tilbury Overview

Messi Mbappe Haaland World Cup Golden boot 16:9

World Cup Golden Boot standings: Mbappe leads Messi & Kane

The 2026 World Cup is well underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long and winding road to be navigated as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL tracks the tournament's most prolific stars.

Spain v Belgium: Quarter Final - FIFA World Cup 2026

Ibrahimovic blasts 'overrated' Lammens after Belgium World Cup exit

Zlatan Ibrahimovic pulled no punches when dissecting Belgium’s dramatic World Cup quarter-final exit, laying the blame squarely at the feet of manager Rudi Garcia and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. The legendary Swedish striker was left utterly bewildered by the decision to replace the injured Thibaut Courtois with the Manchester United shot-stopper ahead of Mike Penders.

Portugal v Spain: Round of 16 - FIFA World Cup 2026

'We beat them twice!' - Yamal insists Spain is 'not afraid' of France

Lamine Yamal says Spain have nothing to fear ahead of their World Cup semi-final against France after reminding Les Bleus of La Roja's recent record in the fixture. The teenage winger also brushed aside criticism of his goalscoring record, insisting team success matters far more than individual numbers.

‘The next 20 years belong to him’ – Yamal showing signs of Messi, Maradona, Pele and Ronaldo

Xavi has recalled the moment he first realised Lamine Yamal was a once-in-a-generation talent, revealing how the Barcelona teenager immediately reminded him of Lionel Messi. The former Blaugrana boss also explained why he believes the Spain international has the mentality and ability to dominate world football for years to come.

'I wanted to stay on' - Courtois on his injury exit before Spain winner

Thibaut Courtois has expressed his immense devastation after a cruel quadriceps injury forced him out of Belgium's heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final exit against Spain. The Real Madrid goalkeeper left the pitch in tears before his replacement, Senne Lammens, committed a costly late error that allowed Mikel Merino to seal a 2-1 victory.

Merino 'tailor-made' for Spain as De la Fuente hails Belgium win

Luis de la Fuente has hailed Mikel Merino as a player "tailor-made" for Spain's tactical identity following their hard-fought victory over Belgium. The midfielder's impact proved decisive as La Roja secured their place in the World Cup semi-finals.