Mbappé Holds 8-Goal Golden Boot Edge on 3 Assists as Messi Stays Favorite at -160
Updated
Updated · FOX Sports · Jul 14
Mbappé Holds 8-Goal Golden Boot Edge on 3 Assists as Messi Stays Favorite at -160
3 articles · Updated · FOX Sports · Jul 14
Summary
Eight goals leave Kylian Mbappé level with Lionel Messi atop the Golden Boot race even after France’s 2-0 semifinal loss to Spain, because France still has Saturday’s third-place match.
Three assists to Messi’s two currently give Mbappé the first FIFA tiebreaker, while his 609 minutes to Messi’s 531 mean the second tiebreaker could also swing his way if Messi plays at least 79 minutes Wednesday.
FanDuel still lists Messi as the favorite at -160 and Mbappé at +180, with Harry Kane at +950, Jude Bellingham at +1600 and Mikel Oyarzabal at +12500.
Messi can strengthen his position against England by adding a goal or assist in the semifinal; otherwise Mbappé could claim a second straight Golden Boot if the standings stay unchanged.
Is Lionel Messi Argentina's greatest weapon or the defensive liability England needs to finally reach a World Cup final?
Can England's disciplined system overcome its historic rival, or will Argentina's legacy of individual brilliance triumph once again?
2026 World Cup Semi-Finals: Argentina’s Resilience, Messi’s Records, and the Showdown with England
Overview
Argentina and England are set for a highly anticipated World Cup semi-final on July 15, 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This match not only carries the high stakes of a semi-final but also revives their famous football rivalry. England reached this stage after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Norway, while Argentina advanced by defeating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time, following a dramatic comeback against Egypt in the Round of 16. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, making this clash a must-watch as they compete for a place in the final.