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Lionel Messi Harry Kane Kylian Mbappe 2026 World Cup

Golden Boot: Will Kane be watching Messi, Mbappe & Haaland?

Harry Kane lives for scoring goals, but will England’s record-shattering captain be keeping an eye on how the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are faring at the 2026 World Cup? Three Lions legend John Barnes has addressed that Golden Boot battle during an exclusive interview with GOAL, as individual ambition is blended with the collective pursuit of global glory.

Portugal v Spain - UEFA Nations League 2025 Final

Shearer: Martinez may not be 'allowed' to sub Ronaldo

Premier League legend Alan Shearer has raised questions over Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence within the Portugal setup, suggesting head coach Roberto Martinez may not even be "allowed" to substitute his captain. As the 41-year-old icon competes in what is likely his final World Cup, the debate over his role in the starting XI has reached boiling point.

GFX Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal

Rangnick backs Yamal to 'reach Messi's level'

Austria boss Ralf Rangnick has hailed Lamine Yamal as one of football’s brightest young talents after Spain’s emphatic 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia. The former Manchester United manager believes the Barcelona winger has the potential to reach a level comparable to Lionel Messi, provided he remains grounded and continues his development.

Argentina v Algeria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

Scaloni backs Messi after false reports Argentina star's father

Lionel Scaloni has emphasized the unity of his Argentina squad as they rally around captain Lionel Messi following a wave of misinformation regarding his family. The Inter Miami superstar has been the subject of shocking false reports during the 2026 World Cup, forcing both the manager and the Messi family to take a public stand.

Cristiano Ronaldo Lionel Messi Portugal Argentina 2025

Mbappe names Messi & Ronaldo as best two players at 2026 World Cup

Kylian Mbappe has brushed aside comparisons with football's biggest stars, insisting Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo remain the game's standout players. The France captain also played down talk of individual milestones, including his pursuit of the World Cup's all-time scoring record, as he focused on helping Les Bleus progress in the tournament.

World Cup Golden Boot GFX

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings: Messi & David lead

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

Argentina v Paraguay - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Mac Allister explains why Messi is 'very difficult to learn from'

Alexis Mac Allister has opened up on the unique challenge of playing alongside Lionel Messi, admitting that the legendary forward’s talent is so natural it is almost impossible for others to replicate. Fresh from a dominant victory in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria, which saw Messi bag a hat-trick, the Liverpool midfielder shed light on the standards set by his captain.

Portugal v Congo DR: Group K - FIFA World Cup 2026

Owen backs Ronaldo to 'shut up' critics & match Messi's hat-trick exploits

Former England striker Michael Owen has passionately defended Cristiano Ronaldo following Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. Despite facing heavy scrutiny for his subdued performance, which came in stark contrast to Lionel Messi's hat-trick heroics for Argentina against Algeria, Owen insists the Al-Nassr striker remains a big-game player and has backed him to "shut up" his critics.

FBL-ESP-LIGA-BARCELONA-GETAFE

‘Simply the perfect footballer’ - Messi leaves De Jong in awe

Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong has opened up about his deep admiration for Lionel Messi, describing the Argentine legend as the "perfect footballer". The Barcelona star reflected on his childhood days watching Messi shine under Pep Guardiola, revealing how incredibly special it felt to eventually share the pitch with his idol during their time together at Camp Nou.

GFX Lamine Yamal Lionel Messi

‘I’ll end up there’ - Yamal makes Messi-themed prediction

Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal has predicted that he will eventually transition into a central role, following in the tactical footsteps of club legend Lionel Messi. The 18-year-old high-flyer is currently tearing up the wings for club and country but believes moving inside is inevitable to escape the constant triple-marking he faces.

Lamine Yamal Lionel Messi

Yamal & Messi comparisons a ‘mistake’, says Spain boss

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has warned that comparing Lamine Yamal to footballing icons like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona is a "mistake" that could hinder the teenager's development. Despite the caution, the La Roja boss admitted the Barcelona star belongs in a rare category of "geniuses" alongside historical figures like Michelangelo and Salvador Dali.