Lionel Messi sits on top on the leaderboard after the group stage. He has a record‑setting new World Cup record for goals in one tournament. He defeated every competitor in the group games. His tally puts him ahead by multiple goals. The lead is undeniable now. He stays comfortably ahead of everyone else. Fans follow the chase with keen interest.
Kylian Mbappé and France’s Ousmane Dembélé lag closely. Dembélé is moving up the list. Mbappé is pursuing the ultimate World Cup scoring mark. The race will press on into the knockout round. It could flip quickly.