Frank Christian
Despite playing in Saudi Arabia currently, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to set records while representing Portugal.
The 39-year-old has achieved the milestone of the most international appearances in men’s football, marking his 200th game for Portugal in June 2023. With an impressive record number of international goals among male footballers, Ronaldo remains focused on securing titles and breaking records.
Lionel Messi, the Argentine and Inter Miami star, is three years younger and has the potential to surpass Ronaldo’s records if he continues playing beyond the 2026 World Cup.
Ronaldo’s recent performance, with a remarkable left-footed goal in Portugal’s friendly against Republic of Ireland before Euro 2024, emphasizes his dominance at the top of the international goals list. In September 2024, he reached 900 career goals by scoring his country’s second goal in the UEFA Nations League match against Croatia.
The Sporting News updates the rankings for most international goals in men’s football regularly.
Top Men’s International Goal Scorers
Ronaldo holds the leading position as the top scorer in men’s international football with 131 goals in 213 appearances for Portugal.
In September 2021, Ronaldo surpassed Iran’s Ali Daei to claim this record with two goals against the Republic of Ireland.
Joining Ronaldo and Daei in the centennial club of international goals is Lionel Messi, with his tally currently standing at 109 goals in 187 matches for Argentina, achieved after a hat-trick against Curacao on March 28.
Top 10 Men’s International Goal Scorers
Last updated as of September 5, 2024.
*Indicates active player
| Player | Country | Goals | Caps | Years Active |
Leading Women’s International Goal Scorers
Even with Ronaldo and Messi’s potential extended careers, it would be challenging for them to reach the goal-scoring heights of the top women’s international players.
Canada’s Christine Sinclair leads the way with an exceptional 190 goals in 328 appearances over 23 years.
Top 10 Women’s International Goal Scorers
Last updated as of September 5, 2024.
*Indicates active player
| Player | Country | Goals | Caps | Years Active |
