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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

The 2026 World Cup is finally underway as all 48 teams begin to fight it out for the universally coveted trophy. While the collective prize is the main objective for all competitors, some will be hoping to make their claim as the best player of the entire tournament. But who are the top contenders and who is leading the race for the prestigious Golden Ball?

Spain have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams returning to full training. The dynamic duo had been major doubts for the group clash with Cape Verde, but their presence at the team's base camp suggests they are ready for the big stage.

Newcastle United have reportedly opened negotiations with Osasuna to sign Spain World Cup star Victor Munoz as they look to fill the void left by Anthony Gordon. The Magpies are moving aggressively in the early stages of the summer window to secure the 22-year-old before his stock rises further on the international stage.