Mbappe claims historic World Cup Golden Boot as Spain secure second title
Kylian Mbappe’s 10 goals in North America elevate his all-time record to 22, while Spain defeat Argentina in the final to claim their second World Cup crown.
French striker Kylian Mbappe has been named the top scorer of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, finishing the tournament with 10 goals. The achievement makes him the first player in the competition’s nearly 100-year history to win the Golden Boot in two consecutive editions, following his success at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Mbappe’s performance in the 2026 tournament brings his men’s World Cup all-time scoring record to 22 goals. He finished ahead of Lionel Messi, who scored eight times to secure the Silver Boot. The 39-year-old Argentine also became the first man to start three World Cup finals during the 2026 competition.
Spain claimed the tournament title by defeating Argentina in extra time during the final on 19 July. Spain’s midfielder Rodri was named the best player of the tournament, receiving the Golden Ball ahead of Messi, who won the Silver Ball. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon was awarded the Golden Glove for conceding only one goal in eight matches, keeping seven clean sheets throughout the campaign.
The tournament featured several notable events, including a group stage match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia. The game was halted for two hours and 12 minutes due to severe thunderstorms and lightning. Play resumed with France leading 1-0, and the match ended 3-0, with Mbappe scoring twice and Ousmane Dembélé adding the third goal.
England finished in third place in the final standings. The 2026 World Cup, hosted across North America, saw ticket prices for the final remain extremely high even immediately before the match. Spain’s victory marks their second World Cup title, four years after their previous win in 2022.
