World Cup 2026
Golden Boot Race

The presumed favourite given his age (27), peak form, and the quality of France's squad around him. Mbappé scored twice in his first World Cup in 2018 and has been France's most dangerous attacker ever since. Playing with Real Madrid's system behind him, he arrives in 2026 in the form of his life.

The complication for Haaland is qualifying — Norway are not automatic qualifiers for every major tournament. But if they reach WC2026, Haaland is the single most dangerous striker in global football. His conversion rate, aerial dominance, and relentless movement make him a near-guaranteed goal scorer in any group.

Brazil will be one of the pre-tournament favourites and Vinicius is their standard bearer. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner plays on the left wing rather than as a centre-forward, but his goal tallies at Real Madrid show he can score at the highest level consistently. Brazil going far means Vinicius scoring often.

At 37-38 years old, Lewandowski's 2026 World Cup will almost certainly be his last. Historically, experienced goal scorers perform well at World Cups even as they age — and for Poland, their entire attacking blueprint runs through Lewandowski. A deep Poland run could produce a memorable Golden Boot challenge.