2026 World Cup Top Goalscorer Tips – Odds & Predictions

One of the most popular betting markets when it comes to football tournaments, and especially the World Cup, is the player to finish as the Top Goalscorer of the competition.

Unlike betting on the winner of the tournament, which is nearly always won by one of the favourites, players have claimed the Top Goalscorer award when playing for countries that haven’t necessarily reached the final. This makes selecting a player in the market a lot more interesting.

Although players who play for teams that are tipped to do well have a greater chance of scoring more goals due to the additional minutes on the pitch, there are other factors to take into account such as the group fixtures which will likely be where the majority of goals are scored against lesser teams.

Before we get started looking at the favourites to claim this year’s Golden Boot, remember to take a look at our other World Cup Betting Tips as we’ll be covering every game throughout the tournament.

World Cup Top Goalscorers By Year

Each team will play a maximum of 7 games throughout the tournament but as you can see from the list of past World Cup top goalscorers, some players have been able to pick up the Golden Boot by playing just 6, 5 or even 3 games.

Harry Kane

England’s captain comes in at best odds of 9/1. Kane has been a consistent scorer for England for more than a decade, including standout performances in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. While England’s success in the tournament will affect his chances, Kane has the experience and clinical finishing needed to challenge for the Golden Boot.

Kylian Mbappe

Mbappe leads the betting at 8/1 with BetVictor . The French forward won the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup with eight goals and has been one of the most consistent scorers for both club and country since. Now playing for Real Madrid, he will be looking to make history and surpass Miroslav Klose’s record for the most World Cup goals. Mbappe’s pace, finishing, and ability to perform on the big stage make him the clear favourite.

Erling Haaland

The Norwegian star comes in at 16/1. Haaland has been a goal machine for Manchester City, already surpassing 100 Premier League goals, and he brings the same clinical touch to the international stage. Norway may not be among the favourites to win the tournament, but Haaland could still shine if he finds the net consistently.

Lionel Messi

The Argentine legend is available at odds of 13/1 to take the award. Messi will be making one of his final World Cup appearances, and with Argentina tipped to go far, he has a strong chance to add to his tally. Even though he is approaching the end of his international career, Messi remains a constant threat in front of goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal’s all-time leading scorer sits at odds of 25/1. Ronaldo will bring his vast experience and incredible finishing to the tournament, and while Portugal faces a tough group stage, the forward has the ability to make an impact in every game.

Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal is priced at 25/1, which feels very generous considering how quickly he has developed for both Spain and Barcelona. He has already shown he can change games and fits perfectly with Spain’s style of play. They create plenty of chances and spend long spells in the final third, which gives attacking players more opportunities to get on the scoresheet.

If Spain put together a strong run in the tournament, he is the type of player who could score in clusters. His confidence on the ball and willingness to take defenders on makes him a constant danger, so he is one to keep in mind if you are looking for a top scorer option at a decent price.

Several Others To Consider

Alongside the favourites, there are a few other players who could challenge for the Golden Boot in 2026. My World Cup Winner Tips includes Netherlands as an outsider, and if they were to reach the final against France, players like Memphis Depay (66/1) would have a great chance to add to their goal tally. Depay has been in strong form for both country and club, and with Netherlands firing on all cylinders, he could improve on his international averages.

Brazil also have several attacking options, including Vinicius Jr. (25/1) and Richarlison (35/1), both capable of scoring consistently if the Selecao progress far into the tournament. Vinicius Jr. has been a standout for Real Madrid, and Richarlison’s finishing makes him a constant threat.

Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez (33/1) could also make an impact if Messi leads the team deep into the knockout stages. While he may not start every game ahead of Messi, Lautaro’s ability to score in bursts makes him an interesting outsider.

Germany’s Nick Woltemade (22/1) is another player to watch. With a young, talented squad, Germany have the potential to go far, and Woltemade could benefit from the additional opportunities created by his teammates.

Finally, don’t overlook France despite their top players being favourites themselves. With Kylian Mbappe leading the line and Ousmane Dembele (30/1) in support, the defending World Cup champions are well equipped to produce multiple goal scorers throughout the tournament.

World Cup Top Scorer Tips

Players from teams with an easier group stage have an advantage, as they have more opportunities to score multiple goals in early games. Mbappe at 8/1 is a safe bet, while Kane at 9/1 in my opinion offers slightly more risk with similar upside. For value, consider players like Yamal or Vinicius Jr.

Betfred

Bet On The World Cup With Betfred

Bet £10 & Get £60 FREE

Claim Offer

New UK customers only. Register using the promo code BETFRED60, deposit and place first bet of £10+ on Sports (cumulative Evens+). First bet must be on Sports. £20 in Free Bets to be used on Sports, £10 in Free Bets to be used on Lotto and 50 Free Spins (20p per spin) credited within 48 hours of bet settlement. Further £20 in Free Bets credited 5 days after settlement. Bonuses have a 7-day expiry. Payment restrictions apply. SMS verification and/or Proof of I.D and address may be required. Full T&Cs apply.