Own goals lead FIFA World Cup 2026 scoring charts, outnumber top goalscorers so far
Washington DC, June 16
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 in full swing, 45 goals have been scored so far. However, no individual player leads the scoring charts, as own goals currently outnumber the tally of any single player in the tournament.
While Sweden's Yasin Ayari, New Zealand's Elijah Just, Germany's Kai Havertz and United States' Folarin Balogun have each scored two goals and lead the goals tally, there have been three own goals scored, outnumbering the tally of any single player.
The tournament's first own goal came during the United States' opening match on June 12 against Paraguay. The US took an early lead in the 7th minute when Pulisic split the defence with a brilliant pass to Weston McKennie, which ultimately resulted in Paraguay defender Damian Bobadilla turning the ball into his own net, helping the opponents secure a 4-1 victory.
On June 13, the second own goal of the tournament came during the match between Switzerland and Qatar. A late header by Boualem Khoukhi, which deflected off the Swiss defender Miro Muheim and was later adjudged to be an own goal, helped Qatar earn their first-ever FIFA World Cup points in an entertaining 1-1 draw against Switzerland.
The third own goal came on June 15, when Egypt were denied their first-ever FIFA World Cup win despite a quick strike from Emam Ashour as Romelu Lukaku forced an own goal out of Mohamed Hany within the first minute of coming on the pitch, with Belgium playing a 1-1 draw at Seattle on Tuesday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, own goals are sometimes the most dramatic moments in football. Remember that Paraguay defender - poor guy must be feeling terrible. But as a neutral fan, these accidental goals make the tournament unpredictable and exciting. And Qatar earning their first points through an own goal? The football gods have a sense of humor!
Finally some positive news for Qatar in their World Cup journey! After the 2022 group stage exit, getting their first-ever points through an own goal is poetic justice. 😅 But can we talk about Lukaku? That guy is a beast - even his pressure forces own goals. India should study Belgium's pressing game!
Own goals leading the charts? That's just peak modern football chaos 🤯. Meanwhile, players like Havertz and Balogun are stuck on two goals while a mistake gets more recognition. But honestly, as an Indian football fan, I'm just happy to watch quality matches without any 3 AM alarm! 🇮🇳⚽
Classic World Cup stat: own goals are undefeated! 😂 But seriously, Egypt must be fuming - they were so close to their first win, and then an own goal ruins it. Lukaku's presence alone is enough to cause panic in any defence. On the bright side, this makes the Golden Boot race more interesting!
As someone who watches ISL regularly, I can relate to defenders having bad days. Own goals happen even in the best teams. But what's interesting is how these accidental goals are shaping group stages - Qatar getting a point, Belgium saved by one. The World Cup never fails
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