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Joao Cancelo has passionately defended his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazil star Neymar from intense media criticism at the World Cup. The Portugal defender insists that both players have already cemented their legacies in football and do not need to prove their worth to anyone, despite Ronaldo's slow start and Neymar's recent injury woes in the tournament.

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

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.

Cristiano Ronaldo has found a staunch ally in former international team-mate Bruno Alves as the legendary forward faces intense scrutiny at the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese captain has come under fire following a frustrating start to the tournament, but those who have shared the pitch with him are refusing to join the chorus of disapproval.