A viral social media claim incorrectly stated Lionel Messi has scored seven goals in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The assertion is factually wrong.
Official records show Messi has six goals. His tally includes a hat trick against Algeria, a brace against Austria, and a free-kick goal against Jordan.
The race for the Golden Boot remains extremely close. French star Kylian Mbappé also has six goals. Mbappé holds the edge with two assists, giving him the current lead.
Prediction markets reflect this tight competition. Current pricing gives Messi a 50.2% probability of finishing as the tournament's top scorer.