Kylian Mbappe has once again paid tribute to Lionel Messi’s enduring brilliance, declaring the Argentine icon the world’s best player as both superstars continue to light up the 2026 World Cup.

Messi, now 38, has rolled back the years in spectacular fashion. After scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 victory over Algeria, the Inter Miami forward followed it up with another match-winning display, netting twice in a 2-0 win over Austria. His five goals in just two matches have propelled him to the top of the Golden Boot standings and reinforced his status as one of football’s all-time greats.

Messi defying Father Time

Many players have retired long before reaching Messi’s age, but the Argentine captain continues to thrive on the biggest stage. His latest brace against Austria demonstrated the same composure, intelligence and clinical finishing that have defined his career for nearly two decades.

Argentina’s perfect start to the tournament has been driven by their captain, who has now scored all five of his side’s goals at the World Cup. With knockout football approaching, Messi is once again proving why he remains capable of deciding the biggest matches in the sport.

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Mbappe focused on bringing the trophy home

Mbappe has also enjoyed a sensational start to the tournament. The France captain scored twice in Les Bleus’ opening 3-1 victory over Senegal before adding another brace in a comfortable 3-0 win against Iraq.

Despite finding himself among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot, Mbappe insists his focus remains firmly on team success rather than individual accolades.

“The best of the four players? Lionel Messi, it’s clear. He is the best in the world, with Cristiano (Ronaldo). It’s clear. He’s shown over 15 years he has an amazing quality,” Mbappe told Hayters TV.

The French superstar added:

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“I just try to show what I can do and show my quality on the biggest stage and helping my team to win another World Cup. For the rest, it’s a debate for the people, for the journalists and for the fans. It’s good to debate about the players but for me it’s not a question, it’s just about how I can help my team and how I can bring the trophy home in July.”

Golden Boot race taking shape

With two group-stage matches completed, Messi currently leads the race to finish as the tournament’s top scorer.

Current contenders include:

• Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 5 goals

• Kylian Mbappe (France) – 4 goals

• Erling Haaland (Norway)

• Harry Kane (England)

Both Argentina and France have won their opening two matches and look well placed to challenge for World Cup glory once again.

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Two legends still setting the standard

The early stages of the 2026 World Cup have already produced several compelling storylines, but none has captured the imagination quite like the performances of Messi and Mbappe.

While one is a veteran seeking to add another chapter to an unparalleled career and the other is entering his prime as football’s leading superstar, both players are delivering when their countries need them most. Messi’s five goals and Mbappe’s four have established them as the tournament’s standout performers so far, setting up what could become one of the defining battles of the World Cup.

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