The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already delivered stunning upsets, unforgettable performances and unforgettable goals, but the tournament has now set an unprecedented goalscoring milestone. first time in fifa world cup Historically, three different players have scored seven or more goals in the same tournament, including Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe both secured seven goals.The remarkable feat has turned the race for the Golden Boot into one of the tournament’s defining storylines, with three of football’s biggest stars battling for individual glory while leading their respective national teams deep into the knockout stages.
Haaland’s last two goals sealed Norway’s historic win
Haaland joined the exclusive club in stunning fashion as he led Norway to a 2-1 win over five-time champions Brazil in the last 16 on Sunday. The Manchester City striker had been silent for much of the game but came alive in the biggest moments.Haaland responded emphatically after speaking to coach Stollbakken during a water break in the second half. He headed in Andreas Schjelderup’s perfect cross in the 79th minute to give Norway the lead, then added another goal late in normal time to complete a stunning brace that secured Norway’s place in the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history.Schjeeldrup, who assisted both goals, jumped on Haaland’s back both times to celebrate as Norway pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the World Cup.
Three modern superstars locked in a fight for the Golden Boot
Haaland’s brace took his tally to seven, making him joint top scorer with Argentina captain Lionel Messi and France forward Kylian Mbappe.The milestone takes on extra significance as it is the first time in World Cup history that three different players have scored seven goals in the same tournament. It also sets up a fascinating battle between three players who represent different generations of football excellence.Messi continues to enhance his legendary status with another outstanding World Cup campaign, while Mbappe once again underlines his reputation as one of the deadliest finishers in major tournaments. Haaland, meanwhile, has announced he will be making his debut on the biggest international stage in his maiden World Cup, leading underdog Norway into the quarter-finals.
The quarter-finals promise an exciting finale
Although all three stars have scored seven goals, Mbappe currently leads the Golden Boot standings thanks to two assists in what was also the first decider of this World Cup.Haaland’s recent brace also extended his record of scoring in 14 consecutive international games to history. The prolific striker has scored 27 goals in this time and has netted a staggering 62 goals in 54 games for Norway.
