As the world’s biggest football stars gear up to compete at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, anticipation is running high among fans across the globe.

Beyond the collective glory of lifting the trophy, individual accolades also drive players to excel. Among the most coveted is the World Cup Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament’s top goal scorer.

Here’s a look at some of the players who could be in contention for the Golden Boot at this year’s World Cup.

To begin with, Erling Haaland stands out as an obvious candidate. The Norwegian striker has secured three of the last four Premier League Golden Boots and continues to be a relentless goal-scoring force. During the qualifiers, he netted an astonishing 16 goals in just eight matches, playing a pivotal role in guiding Norway to their first World Cup appearance in nearly three decades.

While Haaland benefits from the creativity of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, Norway’s overall team strength remains moderate. As a result, the Manchester City forward is considered something of a dark horse for the Golden Boot. Still, those who back him could find favourable odds using the price boost finder.

Harry Kane enters the tournament in sensational form for Bayern Munich. The England skipper has delivered an incredible 61 goals in 51 matches for his club this season, arriving at the World Cup in peak condition.

Kane’s experience will also serve him well. He previously claimed the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup. With England tipped to make a deep run in the tournament, Thomas Tuchel’s leading striker is widely expected to feature prominently among the top scorers once again.

Kylian Mbappe also knows what it takes to win this honour. The French forward captured the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Now 27, Mbappe is among the most prolific scorers in the competition’s history and is closing in fast on Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goal record.

However, Mbappe enters this summer’s tournament after a turbulent season at Real Madrid, where he has often found himself at the centre of controversy. Despite this, France will hope his form and focus remain intact when he dons the national colours.

Lionel Messi is another name that can never be overlooked. The Argentine legend has yet to win the World Cup Golden Boot, one of the few major honours missing from his glittering career. Turning 39 midway through the group stage, Messi might find this tournament his final realistic shot at the award.

Spain’s young sensation Lamine Yamal has also been mentioned as a possible contender. Although not yet the most clinical finisher, the 18-year-old forward has shown immense promise. Having yet to reach 50 senior goals for Barcelona, Yamal will still have ample chances to boost his tally, especially in group matches against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia.

Lastly, Cristiano Ronaldo remains in the conversation. Likely to be his final World Cup appearance, the Portuguese superstar will aim to conclude his international career in style. Yet, his performance in the last edition was underwhelming, as he eventually lost his starting spot. Now 41, it would be a surprise to see him dominate the scoring charts once more.