Denis Undav Takes Early Lead in 2026 World Cup Golden Boot Race
German striker Denis Undav has moved to the top of the adidas Golden Boot standings at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after scoring twice in Germany’s 2‑1 victory over Côte d’Ivoire at Toronto Stadium on Saturday, June 20.
The brace brought his tournament total to three goals, building on a goal and two assists he recorded in Germany’s opening match against Curaçao.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Canada’s Jonathan David are tied with three goals each, but Undav’s extra assists give him the advantage in the current rankings.
Other elite players such as Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior, France’s Kylian Mbappé, Norway’s Erling Haaland and England’s Harry Kane remain within striking distance of the leaders.
If a tie persists after goals and assists are considered, the Golden Boot is awarded to the player who has logged fewer minutes on the pitch.