By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
The 2026 FIFA World Cup witnessed another memorable chapter in football history as Argentine superstar Lionel Messi created a new World Cup record of scoring 18th goal while French striker Kylian Mbappé and Norway’s prolific striker Erling Haaland kept pace in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot with a brilliant two-goal performance on Monday.
Messi, who continues to defy age and expectations, delivered yet another masterclass for defending champions Argentina national football team. The veteran playmaker’s latest appearance and contribution helped him establish a new World Cup milestone, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players the sport has ever produced. The achievement adds another remarkable entry to a career already filled with records, trophies and unforgettable moments.
The Argentine captain has been at the heart of his team’s campaign, combining vision, creativity and leadership to guide Argentina through the group stage. Fans across the globe celebrated the landmark moment, recognizing that they are witnessing a football legend continue to make history on the sport’s biggest stage.
While Messi grabbed the headlines with his record-breaking feat of becoming the top all time scorer by hitting his 18th goal, Mbappé ensured that he remained firmly in the spotlight.
The French forward scored twice in France’s latest victory over Iraq, taking his tally higher and intensifying the battle for the Golden Boot. His pace, finishing ability and relentless attacking threat have once again made him one of the most feared players in the tournament.
Mbappé’s brace underlined France’s credentials as one of the strongest contenders for the title. The 27-year-old has consistently delivered in major tournaments and appears determined to add another World Cup triumph to his impressive résumé. His goals have not only boosted France’s chances of progressing deep into the competition but have also brought him closer to the leading scorers’ chart.
The contrasting stories of Messi and Mbappé have become one of the defining narratives of the World Cup. On one side stands Messi, the iconic veteran continuing to rewrite football history. On the other is Mbappé, the modern superstar carrying the hopes of a new generation and chasing individual and team glory.
As the tournament moves toward the knockout stages, the race for the Golden Boot and the battle for the World Cup trophy are becoming increasingly intertwined. Fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see whether Messi can lead Argentina to another magical run or whether Mbappé’s goals can propel France to glory.
For now, both superstars continue to illuminate the World Cup, ensuring that football’s grandest stage remains as captivating as ever.
Norway’s prolific striker Erling Haaland has also emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament, scoring four goals and showcasing his trademark power and finishing ability.
With Haaland, Messi and Mbappé all in fine form, the race for the Golden Boot is shaping up to be one of the most exciting contests of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.