Since the 2002 World Cup in South Korea, no player has scored more than six goals at this tournament. Harry Kane finished as the top goalscorer at Russia 2018 and the England striker has been priced up as the favourite to repeat his heroics in Qatar. 

When searching for a potential top goalscorer, it’s always worth looking at the teams who are likely to progress to the latter stages of the tournament. 

Favourites 

Harry Kane is likely to play every single game for England and is also likely to be on penalty duty. He should score the majority of the Three Lions’ goals and arrives here in decent form. Kane isn’t afraid to play multiple games and is rarely affected by fatigue. He looks a worthy favourite once again. 

Kylian Mbappe is always capable of producing moments of magic, however, there has been plenty of off-the-field controversy surrounding the French squad and that may prove to be a distraction. Karim Benzema is also expected to contribute heavily following a sensational 2021-22 campaign. Both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will be making their final appearances at this tournament and both will be desperate to impress. Ronaldo is still likely to score a few here, however, Messi’s Argentina are expected to progress further. 

Neymar has been converted into more of a midfielder by Tite in recent months and therefore, can probably be ruled out of the race for the Golden Boot whereas Romelu Lukaku is likely to be ruled out of the tournament (or play very few minutes if selected). 

Predictions 

Although Lionel Messi will be fancied by many punters, his teammate Lautaro Martinez might be an option for top goalscorer at this tournament. The pair have struck up a good understanding and are likely to be first-choice for Lionel Scaloni. He scored seven times during qualifying and with La Albiceleste expected to reach the latter stages, he should be able to find the back of the net on multiple occasions. 

This market is excellent for each-way betting and picking a handful of outsiders can be a profitable venture. At big prices, it is worth considering the recently recalled Olivier Giroud, who has enjoyed an excellent campaign for AC Milan and is an accomplished finisher. Plus, an in-form Aleksandar Mitrovic cannot be ruled out having come out firing for Serbia in the Nations League.  

Top Goalscorer

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) - 33/1

Each Way Picks 

Aleksander Mitrovic (Serbia) - 66/1Olivier Giroud (France) - 66/1