Top goal scorers for National Team

Cristiano Ronaldo made history at the 2022 World Cup before his move to Saudi Arabia. In Portugal’s opening match against Ghana on November 24, he became the first man to score in five different World Cup tournaments by striking a penalty. Despite his move, his rival Lionel Messi also had a successful World Cup, scoring seven goals for Argentina, including the final against France, where he helped lift the trophy for the first time. Messi is currently the only active player who is close to catching Ronaldo’s record in the international men’s goal scoring standings.

Which men’s player holds the record for most international goals scored?

Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals scored in men’s international football, with 118 goals in 193 appearances for Portugal. He broke the previous record held by Iran’s Ali Daei in September 2021. Lionel Messi is the only other active player in the top 10, with 98 goals in 172 appearances for Argentina.

Most international goals: Men’s all-time top 10

* = Active Player

Who holds the record for most international goals in women’s football?

Christine Sinclair of Canada holds the record for the most goals in women’s international football, with 190 goals in 319 appearances over 22 years. She is followed by Abby Wambach of the USA, who retired in 2015 with 184 goals in 256 appearances. The top 10 is dominated by retired USA stars, with the exception of Alex Morgan who has 120 goals in 201 appearances. The closest active player to Sinclair’s record is Jordan’s Maysa Jbarah, with 124 goals in 130 appearances.

Most international goals: Women’s all-time top 10

*= Active player