The top 10 highest international goal scorers in football feature legendary and current stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei. These players have scored over 79 goals for their national teams, showcasing exceptional talent and consistency on the global stage. Their remarkable achievements highlight their crucial roles in football history and inspire fans worldwide.
10. Neymar Jr. (Brazil)

Rounding out the top 10 is Neymar, with 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil. A blend of flair, creativity, and deadly finishing, Neymar surpassed legends like Pelé to become Brazil’s all-time leading scorer. While injuries have hampered his consistency, his place among the greats is secure.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
10 | Neymar | Brazil | 79 | 2010 |
9. Ferenc Puskás (Hungary)

Ferenc Puskás, a Hungarian legend, amassed 84 goals in just 89 games between 1945 and 1956. A star of the “Mighty Magyars,” Puskás was known for his vision, technique, and scoring instinct. His remarkable strike rate still stands out decades later, earning him a lasting legacy in world football.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
9 | Ferenc Puskás | Hungary | 84 | 1945–1956 |
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8. Robert Lewandowski (Poland)

Poland’s talisman, Robert Lewandowski, matches Mabkhout with 85 goals, though in 158 matches. One of the most complete strikers of his generation, Lewandowski’s impact for club and country is immense. He remains the heartbeat of Poland’s attack, known for his intelligence and lethal finishing.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
8 | Robert Lewandowski | Poland | 85 | 2008 |
7. Ali Mabkhout (UAE)

Ali Mabkhout has been a consistent performer for the United Arab Emirates, scoring 85 goals in 114 appearances. Since his debut in 2009, he has been a central figure in the team’s attacking play. His clinical finishing and versatility make him one of the most feared strikers in Asia.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
7 | Ali Mabkhout | UAE | 85 | 2009 |
6. Romelu Lukaku (Belgium)

Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, Romelu Lukaku has netted 89 goals in 124 games since his debut in 2010. His physical presence, strength, and knack for scoring in big moments have been key to Belgium’s golden generation. Still active, Lukaku continues to climb this list.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 | Romelu Lukaku | Belgium | 89 | 2010 |
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5. Mokhtar Dahari (Malaysia)

A legendary figure in Malaysian football, Mokhtar Dahari scored 89 goals in 142 matches between 1972 and 1985. Known as “Supermokh,” he was famed for his strength, pace, and powerful shots. Despite retiring decades ago, Dahari remains one of Asia’s greatest ever forwards.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
5 | Mokhtar Dahari | Malaysia | 89 | 1972–1985 |
4. Sunil Chhetri (India)

An enduring figure in Asian football, Sunil Chhetri is the captain and talisman of the Indian national team. With 94 goals in 154 matches since 2005, Chhetri is India’s all-time leading scorer and ranks among the top active goal scorers worldwide. His leadership, professionalism, and consistency have been instrumental in Indian football’s resurgence.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 | Sunil Chhetri | India | 94 | 2005 |
3. Ali Daei (Iran)

Before Ronaldo and Messi, Ali Daei was the benchmark, with 109 goals in 148 appearances for Iran. Playing from 1993 to 2006, Daei dominated Asian football and was revered for his aerial ability and clinical finishing. His long-standing record remained untouched for nearly two decades until Ronaldo surpassed it in 2021.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
3 | Ali Daei | Iran | 109 | 1993–2006 |
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2. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Close on Ronaldo’s heels is Lionel Messi, with 112 goals in 192 caps for Argentina. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or record-holder combines magic, creativity, and precision. Messi’s international journey was once clouded with criticism, but he silenced doubters by leading Argentina to Copa América and World Cup glory. His playmaking and finishing have made him a global icon.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
2 | Lionel Messi | Argentina | 112 | 2005 |
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Cristiano Ronaldo stands tall at the top with an unmatched record of 138 goals in 221 appearances for Portugal since 2003. The legendary forward, known for his consistency, athleticism, and goal-scoring prowess, continues to defy age and remains active in international football. From debuting as a teenager to becoming Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, Ronaldo’s longevity and dominance are unparalleled.
Rank | Player | Country | Goals | Years Active |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | 138 | 2003 |
Conclusion
This list features legends from different eras and continents, showcasing the global appeal and competitiveness of international football. With some players still active, the numbers are bound to change. But each name etched here has delivered moments of magic for their country and inspired generations to come.
FAQ
1. Who is the highest international goal scorer in football history?
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the highest number of goals scored in men’s international football. As of now, he has scored 138 goals in 221 appearances for Portugal since 2003.
2. Is Lionel Messi close to breaking Ronaldo’s record?
Yes, Lionel Messi is currently second on the list with 112 goals in 192 matches for Argentina. While there’s still a gap, Messi remains an active player and could close in further depending on future matches.
3. Who are the top Asian international goal scorers?
The top Asian scorers include:
Ali Daei (Iran) – 109 goals
Sunil Chhetri (India) – 94 goals
Ali Mabkhout (UAE) – 85 goals
These players have significantly contributed to football in Asia and rank high globally as well.