Kylian Mbappe kept his cool to send Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill the wrong way from the penalty spot, scoring his seventh goal of the 2026 World Cup and putting France into the lead. The French captain’s clinical strike not only secured a vital win but also pulled him level with Lionel Messi at the top of the Golden Boot standings, both icons now on seven goals in the tournament.
Behind the leading duo, a chasing pack is closing in. Erling Haaland and Harry Kane each have five goals, while Vinícius Júnior and Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal are on four, all with opportunities to narrow the gap in the next 24 hours as the knockout stages continue.
“Mbappe scores seventh World Cup goal, matching Messi for Golden Boot lead.”
Mbappe’s decisive penalty came in a tense battle against a stubborn Paraguay side, who had frustrated France for much of the match. But the 27-year-old forward showed his trademark composure, stepping up to slot the ball home and ignite celebrations among the French fans. The goal was his seventh of the tournament, matching Messi’s tally and setting up a fascinating race for the Golden Boot as the World Cup enters its decisive phase.
The result keeps France’s campaign on track, while Mbappe’s form underscores his status as one of the tournament’s standout performers. With Haaland, Kane, and others lurking, the battle for the top scorer prize is far from over.