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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already produced stunning upsets, memorable performances and unforgettable goals, but the tournament has now produced a scoring milestone never seen before. First time in FIFA World Cup In history, three different players have scored seven or more goals in the same edition of the tournament, with Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé scored seven goals.The remarkable feat turned the race for the Golden Boot into one of the most important stories of the tournament, with three of football’s biggest stars battling for personal glory as they lead their nations deep into the knockout stages.
Haaland’s late double seals historic Norwegian triumph
Haaland joined an exclusive club in spectacular fashion after inspiring Norway to a famous 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil in the round of 16 on Sunday. The Manchester City forward, who was quiet for most of the contest, came alive when it mattered most.After talking to coach Ståle Solbakken during the second-half hydration break, Haaland responded decisively. He headed home Andreas Schjelderup’s inch-perfect cross to give Norway the lead in the 79th minute before adding another goal in regulation time for a sensational goal to secure his country’s first-ever World Cup quarter-final.Schjelderup, who assisted both goals, celebrated both times by pouncing on Haaland’s back as Norway completed one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
Three modern giants in the fight for the Golden Boot
Haaland’s brace took his tally to seven goals, leveling him with Argentina captain Lionel Messi and France forward Kylian Mbappé at the top of the goalscoring charts.This milestone has added significance as it is the first time in World Cup history that three different players have reached the seven-goal mark in the same tournament. It also sets up a fascinating battle between three players who represent different generations of footballing excellence.Messi continued to enhance his legendary status with another outstanding World Cup campaign, while Mbappé once again highlighted his reputation as one of the most lethal players at major tournaments. Haaland, meanwhile, announced himself on the biggest international stage at his first World Cup, leading an unfancied Norway to the round of 16.
The quarterfinals promise an exciting finish
Although all three stars are tied with seven goals, Mbappé currently holds the lead in the Golden Boot standings thanks to his two assists, the first tiebreaker of the tournament.Haaland’s latest brace also saw the goal extend his remarkable run to 14 consecutive competitive internationals. The prolific striker has now scored 27 goals during that run and boasts a staggering 62 goals in just 54 appearances for Norway.
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