Who is the Highest Goal Scorer in History?
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals scored in football history, with over 930 goals for both clubs and his country. He’s followed by Lionel Messi, who’s netted 865 goals, and Josef Bican with 805.
In football, when we talk about the highest goal scorer, we’re referring to the player who’s scored the most goals in official matches throughout their career. This covers goals from club games, international matches, and official tournaments. It’s a measure of success in the sport, and only a few have reached this level.
What Does “Highest Goal Scorer” Mean?
The term highest goal scorer is used for a football player who has scored the most official goals in competitive matches during their career. This includes goals scored in club games, international matches, and other recognized events. These players are known for their skill, consistency, and ability to score. Goals are what football is all about. While lots of players have impressed fans with their tricks and skills, only a few have built a true legacy by finding the net time and time again.
Being the highest goal scorer isn’t just a title; it shows consistency, longevity, and sharp shooting. Legends like Ferenc Puskás, along with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, have pushed the drive to be the top scorer in football history. In this piece, we’ll look at the lives and careers of the top 33 highest goal scorers in football who changed what it means to be great in front of goal.
Why Goals Matter?
Goals are what make every football match exciting. The buzz in the crowd, the joy of the players, and that thrill when the ball hits the back of the net all happen in that special moment when a goal is scored. It’s easy to see why scoring goals is the main aim in football. But not all goals are the same. Some are breathtaking, like a long shot that surprises everyone, while others show sheer power. Then there are the legendary goals that everyone remembers forever as the biggest soccer goals moments. Being on the list of top goal scorers is impressive. It shows that a player can not only finish well but also score regularly over many years and across different leagues.
Note: The information on this list is liable to change after this article is published.
33. Hugo Almeida (151 Goals)
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Almeida racked up 151 goals and really made an impact on the field with his strong headers and long shots. He might not have hit as many goals as some other players, but his record from playing with teams like FC Porto, Werder Bremen, and Beşiktaş is solid enough to land him among the highest goal scorer in history. Plus, he played for Portugal internationally too.
32. Gunnar Nordahl (225 Goals)
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Nordahl was a key player in the well-known “Gre-No-Li” trio at Milan, where he often topped the Serie A scoring charts. His strength, good positioning, and powerful left foot made him a tough striker to defend against. Before his time at Milan, he played for IFK Norrköping and wrapped up his career at AS Roma. As Sweden’s highest goal scorer for several years, he left a lasting mark in football and is celebrated as a true Scandinavian legend. Overall, he scored 225 goals in his career.
31. Erling Haaland (279 Goals)
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Erling Haaland is a goal machine for Manchester City in England. He shattered the Premier League single-season record with ease and has racked up 279 goals in just a few seasons. He kicked off his career at Salzburg, then moved on to play for Dortmund in the Bundesliga, and now he’s making waves at City. His combination of strength, speed, and finishing skills really sets him apart. Much like Kylian Mbappé, he’s seen as a strong contender for the highest goal scorer title in the future.
30. Raúl González (323 Goals)
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Before social media took over, Raul Gonzalez was a big name in football, known for scoring goals. He became one of the highest goal scorers in the game, racking up 323 goals with teams like Real Madrid, Schalke, Al Sadd, and New York Cosmos. Raul is a familiar name in football. He wasn’t about showing off; he was just really good at what he did. His smart plays and movements helped him stay as Real Madrid’s top scorer for a long time until Cristiano Ronaldo came along and broke that record.
29. Neymar Jr. (363 Goals)
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Neymar mixes his samba flair with an eye for goal. His dribbling skills pull defenders in, and he’s great at finishing the job. He started his career in Santos, Brazil, and then went to Barcelona where he won a bunch of trophies. In 2017, he made headlines with a huge move to PSG for €222 million. Even though he often deals with injuries, he still scores plenty. Now he’s playing for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. On the international stage, he’s been a big asset for Brazil, especially during the 2014 World Cup in their home country. He’s not just about the flashy moves; he’s a serious threat in front of goal and has earned his spot among the top goal scorers.
28. Kylian Mbappé (373 Goals)
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At just 26, while some players are still finding their way, Mbappé is already breaking records. His amazing World Cup moments and incredible speed have caught everyone’s attention. He kicked off his pro career at Monaco and then made a big move to Paris Saint-Germain for €180 million, making him the second most expensive player ever and the priciest teenager. After joining Real Madrid for free, his recent games show he’s just getting warmed up. Many think he could end up being the higher goal scorer of all time. He still has plenty of time ahead, and his goals are already up there with the best.
27. David Villa (383 Goals)
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David Villa was a key player in Spain’s golden age of football. Fast, smart, and precise, he was the top scorer at Euro 2008 and the World Cup in 2010. He started making a name for himself at Valencia before joining Barcelona in La Liga. His memorable third goal in the 2011 Champions League final against Manchester United is something every fan remembers. With 383 career goals, he’s made a lasting impact on football fans everywhere.
26. Carlos Bianchi (385 Goals)
Before he became a famous manager, Carlos Bianchi was a goal-scoring machine when he played. He made a name for himself in both Argentina and France, scoring in all sorts of ways like headers, volleys, and penalties. With 385 goals for top teams like Vélez Sarsfield, Stade de Reims, and PSG, his achievements as both a player and a manager make him a big deal among the highest goal scorers.
25. Thierry Henry (411 Goals)
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Thierry Henry is definitely one of the biggest names in football history. With 411 goals, he was known for his incredible scoring abilities and style of play. Throughout his career, he played for top clubs across Europe, including Juventus, Arsenal, and Barcelona, before wrapping things up at NY Red Bulls. Henry was famous for his curled shots and smooth runs and quickly became a legend in both the Premier League and La Liga. As the all-time top scorer for France and Arsenal, he left a mark that goes beyond just the numbers. He truly stands out as one of the highest goal scorers of his time.
24. Karim Benzema (458 Goals)
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Karim Benzema burst onto the football scene at Marseille when he was pretty young before moving to Real Madrid in Spain. His shift from a supporting striker to the main guy at Madrid was impressive. Teaming up with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Luka Modric, he quickly became a nightmare for goalkeepers all over Europe. His Ballon d’Or win in 2022 and his many trophies locally and internationally showed he had reached the top. Now playing for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, he’s making his way up the list of highest goal scorers.
23. Alessandro Del Piero (462 Goals)
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Del Piero was a true gentleman on the field. He played with skill and showed great leadership. Known for wearing the iconic black and white jersey, his free kicks and calm finishes made him a legend at Juventus. He’s currently the second-highest Italian scorer of all time in all competitions, with 462 goals, only behind Silvio Piola. During his time with the club, he won six Serie A titles, the Coppa Italia, four Supercoppa Italiana titles, the UEFA Champions League, and several other trophies. While he wasn’t necessarily the highest scorer, his steady performance definitely deserves recognition in this highest goal scorer list.
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22. Luis Suárez (504 Goals)
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Luis Suárez is known for being tough and a bit tricky on the field, and sometimes he plays rough. He’s definitely made a name for himself, scoring 504 goals throughout his career. It all started at Ajax, where people began to notice his talent before he moved to Liverpool, and then to Barcelona. At Barça, he was a key part of the famous trio with Messi and Neymar, helping the team win several trophies. With a Copa América and a European Golden Shoe under his belt, Suárez has cemented his reputation as one of the top goal scorers in football.
21. Imre Schlosser (504 Goals)
Long before football became a worldwide phenomenon, Schlosser was a big deal in the sport. In the 1910s and 1920s, he was Europe’s top scorer, netting goals with style. He played for Ferencváros and MTK Budapest, racking up over 504 goals. His success helped set the stage for Hungary’s golden generation, and he truly deserves his spot among the top goal scorers.
20. Alfredo Di Stéfano (512 Goals)
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Di Stéfano was a key player for Real Madrid in the 1950s, known for his skill and determination. He didn’t just score goals; he controlled matches, defended, and helped set up plays for the team. He played for teams like River Plate, Millonarios, and Real Madrid. His impact on football goes beyond just numbers, and people still talk about him today. With 512 goals, it’s clear why he’s considered one of the greatest goal scorers in history.
19. Joe Bambrick (518 Goals)
Joe Bambrick was quite the player in the early 1900s. He scored six goals in one international match, a record that lasted for years. His name is still well-known in British football. With 518 goals playing for teams like Linfield, Chelsea, and Walsall, people still remember him as “Six Goal Bambrick.” Though he might not always get the spotlight, he’s definitely up there among the top goal scorers in history.
18. Fernando Peyroteo (544 Goals)
Peyroteo holds the record for the most goals per game ever, scoring almost 1.5 goals each match. He’s definitely not just an average goal scorer. Unfortunately, he hasn’t gotten much attention worldwide because his era didn’t have as much media coverage. He played his whole career at Sporting CP and netted 544 goals. In Lisbon, he’s a true legend, and his name should be recognized alongside the top goal scorers.
17. Jimmy McGrory (550 Goals)
Jimmy McGrory was a true local legend for Celtic, known for his loyalty and scoring ability. Despite not being the tallest player, he had an incredible knack for heading the ball, which has become part of the club’s stories. With 550 goals, this one-club Scottish player was never about showiness, but he sure knew how to find the net. That’s what places his name among the top scorers in football history.
16. Hugo Sánchez (562 Goals)
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Hugo Sánchez turned scoring into an art form with his amazing acrobatic kicks. Known for his flashy style, he had a really successful run at Real Madrid. Before that, he played for UNAM and Atlético Madrid, along with representing Mexico. As the all-time leading scorer for Mexico, Sánchez stands out among the best goal scorers thanks to both his numbers and his style. He found the back of the net over 562 times in his career.
15. Glenn Ferguson (563 Goals)
Ferguson is a well-known figure in Northern Irish football, famous for his loyalty and knack for scoring. Over three decades, he racked up an impressive number of goals playing for Glenavon and Linfield. While he might be more recognized locally, his tally of over 563 goals speaks for itself and deserves attention everywhere. He was a bit of a quiet legend when it came to goal scoring.
14. Zlatan Ibrahimović (570 Goals)
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a true showman on the field. With his crazy bicycle kicks, bold volleys, and fearless mindset, he’s one of the most entertaining players you can watch. The Swedish striker has played for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, like Ajax, Juventus, Inter, Barcelona, PSG, Milan, and Manchester United before landing at LA Galaxy in the U.S. Scoring 570 goals, he’s made a lasting mark in soccer history. His spot among the top goal scorers speaks volumes about his talent and confidence.
13. Uwe Seeler (575 Goals)
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Uwe Seeler was a true legend for both his club and country. Known for his loyalty and powerful headers, he played for more than 20 years and kept scoring even in his 30s. With 574 goals for Hamburg and West Germany, Seeler was more about consistency than flashy plays. He was reliable, sharp, and earned the respect of everyone. That’s what makes him a top goal scorer.
12. Tulio Maravilha (575 Goals)
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Tulio was a mix of skill and personality. While a lot of his 575 goals were scored in local or unofficial games, he believed they all counted. His style, fun celebrations, and charm made him a popular figure. He played for around 40 different football teams, and there’s some debate about whether he really belongs on the list of top goal scorers, but his numbers definitely add some flair to that group.
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11. Jimmy Jones (647 Goals)
Let me tell you about Jimmy Jones, a goal scorer who might not be famous everywhere, but definitely made his mark. He scored 647 goals while playing for Glenavon and Belfast Celtic in the Irish League, which is a record in Northern Irish football. Even though he didn’t play on the world stage, he has a solid legacy in local football that puts him in the ranks of the highest goal scorers. He may have been under the radar, but his numbers say it all. He missed out on playing for the national team because of age restrictions.
10. Robert Lewandowski (700 Goals)
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Robert Lewandowski is a standout player in modern soccer. He’s known for his great positioning and calm under pressure, making him a nightmare for defenders in Poland, Germany, and Spain. He started his career at Lech Poznań and then moved to Borussia Dortmund before joining Bayern Munich, where he bagged the UEFA Champions League and several local titles. One of his biggest soccer goal moments was scoring five goals in just nine minutes for Bayern, which is still talked about by fans. In 2020, he was named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year. After his time in Munich, he joined Barcelona, and with 700 goals to his name, he’s still going strong.
9. Eusébio (733 Goals)
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Eusébio da Silva Ferreira was an incredible player known for his speed and goal-scoring ability. His strong right foot helped bring Benfica to success, including a European Cup win in 1962. With 733 goals in the Portuguese top league, he won the Golden Boot at the 1966 World Cup and earned the love of fans in Portugal and beyond. His name is remembered among the top goal scorers, a testament to his hard work and amazing shooting skills.
8. Gerd Müller (735 Goals)
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Gerd Müller might have been shorter than most players, but he was a powerhouse in front of the goal. Known as “Der Bomber,” he scored goals so often that defenders were always on edge. He had a knack for finding the back of the net, even in tricky situations. With 735 goals, most of them with Bayern Munich and a stint at Fort Lauderdale Strikers, he played a huge role in West Germany’s World Cup win in 1974 and helped Bayern Munich dominate in Europe. Müller was one of the highest goal scorers ever, known for his precision and determination.
7. Pelé (767 Goals)
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You can’t discuss greatness without talking about Pelé. He was a true icon who showed the world what Brazilian football is all about. With 767 goals, he brought joy and hope to fans everywhere. Playing for teams like Santos and the New York Cosmos, he was quick, strong, and had an amazing shot and game sense. As one of the first players to rack up so many goals, Pelé’s impact is still felt today.
6. Romário (772 Goals)
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We’ve got another Brazilian who scored even more goals than Pelé. Romário had a real talent for being in the right place at the right time. He was on the shorter side but had tons of confidence and would say, ‘The ball will come to me, and I will score.’ And you know what? He did it 772 times. He was a key player on Brazil’s 1994 World Cup-winning team, and his ability to finish was something else. He made scoring look easy with simple tap-ins and clever flicks. Among the greatest goal scorers, few had his style. Romário played for some top clubs like PSV, Barcelona, and Flamengo.
5. Ferenc Puskás (802 Goals)
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Ferenc Puskás wasn’t just a great striker; he was really something special on the field. Known as The Galloping Major, he had an amazing mix of skill, strength, and a knack for scoring that made him a star in Hungarian football. With his powerful left foot, he scored 802 goals and is remembered for some of the best goals of his time. He played for teams like Budapest Honvéd and Real Madrid. Even now, there’s a FIFA award named after him for the most beautiful goal each year. He’s truly one of the all-time greats, and his name still means a lot to fans of Real Madrid and Hungary.
4. Josef Bican (805 Goals)
Josef Bican might not be a common name these days, but he was a force to be reckoned with during his time. Mostly playing in the 1930s and 1940s, he scored like crazy, averaging almost a goal per game with teams like Rapid Vienna and Slavia Prague. His quickness and skill with both feet made him a nightmare for defenders. Even though he didn’t have the same fame as today’s stars, Bican’s record of 805 goals is impressive. He’s remembered as one of the top goal scorers, and modern players are still trying to beat his achievements.
3. Roberto Dinamite (864 Goals)
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Roberto Dinamite really lived up to his name with his explosive style on the field. He became the top scorer for Vasco da Gama before heading to Barcelona. Dinamite brought excitement to Brazilian football with his sharp finishes and strong shots, racking up 864 goals for both his club and the national team. While he might not be as famous worldwide, his place among the top goal scorers is well-earned thanks to a remarkable career at home.
2. Lionel Messi (865 Goals)
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Lionel Messi scores goals in a way that’s more like creating art than just charging ahead. With his incredible balance, sharp vision, and that famous left foot, he’s given us some of the greatest soccer goals ever. Most of his time was spent at Barcelona, where he racked up nearly every trophy, then he moved to PSG and now plays for Inter Miami. He’s scored more goals than many forwards, all while being a playmaker too. Messi can find the back of the net even in the toughest spots. With 865 career goals and still going strong, he’s just something else.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (938 Goals)
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Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 938 goals and is still going strong. He’s definitely one of the biggest names in football history. Not only is he the highest goal scorer ever, but he has held that title for years. With a body like a sprinter, a powerful header, and a right foot that shoots like crazy, Ronaldo knows how to find the net. He started his career at Sporting CP, caught everyone’s eye at Manchester United, and hit his peak at Real Madrid. What makes him stand out isn’t just his skill, but his drive. His intense focus, hard work, and never-ending desire to win have kept him at the top. Whether it’s the UEFA Champions League or the World Cup, he always shows up big.
Legacy of Goal Scorers in Modern Football
Being one of the highest goal scorers is more than just numbers; it’s about making a mark. These players took on the hopes of their countries and the dreams of their fans every time they stepped onto the field. Nowadays, with all the stats and technology, scoring goals isn’t easy. Still, fresh talent keeps coming up, looking to set records and make their names known. From powerful shots to calm finishes in tense situations, these footballers have given us unforgettable moments. Every goal has its own story, and each name on this list adds to football’s rich history.
Who Will Be the Next Highest Goal Scorer?
Football keeps going strong. As veterans hang up their boots, fresh talent comes forward. Players like Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Harry Kane are already making their mark with goals all over. It’ll be interesting to see if any of these names can become the highest goal scorers in the future. We’ll have to wait and see.
People Also Ask About Highest Goal Scorers
Who is the greatest scorer of all time in football?
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, with over 900 goals and counting, has scored the most goals in football, club and country combined.
Who has more goals, Ronaldo or Messi?
Cristiano Ronaldo holds both the all-time men’s records for number of goals goals scored for club and country at over 900 goals and counting, while Lionel Messi comes a close second at over 800 goals and counting.
Who is better than Ronaldo?
The debate of who is better, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, is subjective and depends on individual preferences and criteria. While both are considered among the greatest footballers of all time, Messi is often lauded for his playmaking and dribbling, while Ronaldo is praised for his goal-scoring prowess and athleticism. Ultimately, there is no definitive answer, and both players have strong claims to being the best.
How many goals Ronaldo scored in Al Nassr?
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 99 goals and counting in 111 matches for Al Nassr, since joining the Riyadh-based club, in the Saudi Pro League.
How many Neymar goals?
He has scored over 400 goals and has over 300 assists so far. Neymar made his professional debut with Santos in 2009, and in 2011 helped them win the Copa Libertadores and later reach the FIFA Club World Cup final.
Who has the most golden boots in football history?
Lionel Messi has won the award a record six times, more than Cristiano Ronaldo or any other player in history.
What is Ronaldo’s world record?
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the world record for most international goals, scoring 138 for Portugal since making his debut in 2003.
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