Scoring goals for one's country is the ultimate dream for any footballer. While many have achieved this feat, only a select few have managed to score a century of goals for their nation. Here, we take a look at the top three goal scorers in international football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo - Portugal (130 goals)
Cristiano Ronaldo is the undisputed king of international goal scoring. With 130 goals in 212 matches, he holds the record for the most goals scored for a national team. Ronaldo's incredible goal-scoring ability has been on display since his debut for Portugal in 2003. He has scored 10 hat-tricks for his country, also a record in international football. The Portuguese superstar continues to defy age and logic, still scoring crucial goals for his nation.
Lionel Messi - Argentina (109 goals)
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, sits second on the list with 109 goals for Argentina. Messi's incredible dribbling skills and vision have made him a nightmare for defenders. His goal-scoring record for Argentina is impressive, and he continues to add to his tally. Messi's goals have been crucial for Argentina, helping them reach major tournament finals and semifinals.
Ali Daei - Iran (108 goals)
Ali Daei, the former Iranian striker, was the first player to score 100 international goals. His record stood for many years until Cristiano Ronaldo broke it in 2020. Daei's 108 goals in 148 matches are an incredible achievement, making him one of the greatest strikers in international football history. His goals helped Iran qualify for major tournaments, and he remains a legend in his home country.
These three players have set the bar high for future generations of footballers. Their incredible goal-scoring ability and dedication to their nations have inspired millions worldwide. As international football continues to evolve, we may see new stars emerge, but for now, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei remain the top three goal scorers in international football history.