Football fans and enthusiasts alike, pay attention! Look no farther if you’ve ever wondered who the real legends in the world of international football are. The highest international goal scorers are regarded as the titans of their era in the world of the beautiful game, where goals are the currency of glory. Come along on an exciting trip as we reveal the individuals who have made their imprint on football history. These five individuals hold the record for the most international goalsscorer ever, and their tales are nothing short of epic.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese striker, has etched his name in history as the highest all-time international goalscorer, having found the back of the net an astounding 123 times during his 200 international appearances. This remarkable feat was achieved when Ronaldo eclipsed Ali Daei’s record of 109 international goals during a scintillating 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Ireland. The Portuguese maestro netted a brace in that game, firmly establishing his claim to this historic milestone. Since then, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has continued to add to his goal tally, showcasing his enduring excellence on the international stage.
Ronaldo’s impact on the beautiful game is immeasurable, with his signature goal celebration becoming an iconic sight cherished by football fans worldwide. The Portuguese talisman is poised to extend his lead at the pinnacle of the highest international goalscorers list in the upcoming matches for Portugal. Becoming the all-time leading international goalscorer in men’s international football is just another remarkable achievement in the illustrious career of one of the greatest footballers to have ever graced the sport.
2. Ali Daei – 109 goals (Iran)
Ali Daei, hailing from Iran, occupies the second spot on the list with an impressive international goal score record of 109 goals. Daei was the player Ronaldo aimed to surpass, and his record appeared unassailable at one point. Beginning his international career in 1993, Daei’s journey spanned 13 years, during which he achieved this astonishing feat in just 149 matches. He also led his team to an Asian Games Gold medal in 1998, cementing his legacy as one of Iran’s football legends.
3. Lionel Messi – 103 goals (Argentina)
Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, solidifies his place in history as one of the most prolific international goalscorers of all time, ranking third in international football history with 103 goals. Messi’s exceptional skill, precision, and unparalleled talent have captured the hearts of fans around the globe. His mesmerizing dribbles, lightning-fast pace, and deadly accuracy consistently find the back of the net, not only propelling Argentina to numerous victories but also cementing his status as one of the greatest footballers in history. Furthermore, Messi achieved the pinnacle of success by clinching the World Cup in 2022 in Qatar, further enhancing his extraordinary legacy in international football.
4. Sunil Chhetri – 90 goals (India)
Sunil Chhetri, India’s record goalscorer, appearance-maker, and captain, stands as the fourth-highest active international goalscorer in the world with 92 goals. Despite being 38 years old, Chhetri continues to shoulder the responsibility of scoring goals for his country. His recent goals against Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers demonstrated his enduring prowess. With Chhetri aging like fine wine, it is only a matter of time before he ascends higher on this prestigious list. Chhetri showcased his exceptional skills and talent by netting an impressive hat-trick against Pakistan in the SAFF Championship 2023, further elevating his goal tally to an astonishing 90 goals.
5. Mokhtar Dahari – 89 goals (Malaysia)
Mokhtar Dahari, the beloved Malaysian football icon, occupies the fifth spot on the list with an impressive 89 international goals in 142 appearances, boasting an average of 0.63 goals per game. Dahari made his international debut at the tender age of 19 and left an indelible mark on Malaysian football. He not only led his nation to their best ranking of 61 in 1977 but also played a pivotal role in inspiring countless youngsters to take up the sport. Mokhtar Dahari’s legacy endures as he remains one of the greatest international football goal scorers of all time, forever celebrated in the hearts of Malaysian football enthusiasts.