The Golden Boot is one of the most prestigious awards a footballer can win, and many players dream of holding it up above their heads when they lift the World Cup trophy.
So with the Golden Boots distribution not being done until after the final has finished, players will now be vying to win it during the last four matches of the World Cup 2022. Here are my early predictions as to who will likely win it:
Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe is the early favorite to win the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The 23-year-old French superstar opened his scoring account against Australia and followed up with a brace against Denmark, booking France’s spot in the knockouts.
But there was a moment of concern for Kylian when he failed to net against Tunisia, but he did finish off with two goals against Poland on Sunday in the knockouts. The question now is: will he be able to keep up his high level of play?
Alvaro Morata
Morata was the only player to score in all three of Spain’s group games, including a goal off the bench against Germany. He also set up Spain’s fifth goal and scored their sixth goal in the final match against Costa Rica.
But the Atletico Madrid marksman fell out of the starting lineup by Marco Asensio in his side’s first two World Cup games, and he couldn’t do enough to play his way back into Enrique’s plans.
He put Luis Enrique’s team ahead in their final group game, but the 2010 champions were beaten as Japan staged their second stunning tournament turnaround to surge into the last 16 in the top spot.
Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo has been a key player for the Netherlands, and he’s one to watch when it comes to the Golden Boot race.
Gakpo has been their main star in this competition, helping them finish at the top of Group A with three goals in their three group-stage games. He failed to score against the US in their 3-1 win.
His versatility makes him dangerous in the box—his height (6’3″) gives him an advantage over most defenders, which is why he’s been able to score from so many different areas on the pitch.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is the favorite to win the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He’s been enjoying a trophy-laden career, and this World Cup will be his crowning achievement.
He opened with a penalty goal in the opening match against Saudi Arabia. In their second match against Australia, he scored again and assisted on another goal for his team.
While other players like Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo have had strong starts to the tournament, it’s hard to bet against Messi.
