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Copa America 2024: Every Team Qualified for the Round Of 16

The Copa America 2024 group stages concluded with Brazil becoming the last team to qualify for the Quarter-Finals. Let's see all the 8 teams that have qualified for the knockouts of the competition.

Jul 2, 2024, 8:43 AM2 min read

Copa America 2024 | Image: X

The group-stage matches of the  Copa America 2024 concluded and we have gotten our eight teams for the Quarter-Finals, starting from 5th July 2024. The top two teams from the four groups will play the knockouts. While many teams stepped towards the next phase, a few big teams suffered an early elimination from the competition this time. It's time we look at the teams that have qualified for the Quarter-Finals of the 2024 Copa America competition.

Read Also: Messi vs Ronaldo: Who is better at taking penalty?

Copa America 2024: Teams that Qualified for the Quarter-Finals

Argentina topped the Group A points table with 9 points. They beat Canada, Chile, and Peru convincingly and qualified for the knockouts without even conceding a single goal. Canada finished second with 4 points and became the second team from Group A to progress further. 

Copa America 2024: Lautaro Martinez
Lautaro Martinez has scored 4 goals in 3 games for Argentina in the 2024 Copa America | Image: Getty

Venezuela topped Group B with nine points too just like Argentina. Ecuador on the other hand, finished second with 4 points. Uruguay finished at the top of Group C with 9 points too and scored the most goals until now in the 2024 edition of the Copa America. Panama shocked everyone and finished second in Group C, beating Bolivia and the USA to progress further.

Colombia and Brazil played a 1-1 draw on Wednesday. Colombia finished at the top of Group D with 7 points. Colombia had 6 points before they met Brazil. Brazil became the second team to head further from Group B with 5 points. 

Copa America 2024 Quarterfinals Schedule

Date Time (IST) Match (click to buy tickets) Location
July 5, 2024 6:30 a.m. QF1: Argentina vs. Ecuador Houston, TX (NRG Stadium)
July 6, 2024 6:30 a.m. QF2: Venezuela vs. Canada Arlington, TX (AT&T Stadium)
July 7, 2024 3:30 a.m. QF3: Uruguay vs. Brazil Las Vegas, NV (Allegiant Stadium)
July 7, 2024 6:30 a.m. QF4: Colombia vs. Panama Glendale, AZ (State Farm Stadium)
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Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

In this special article, Sportz Point explores the footballers in international football who played crucial roles in their team's success but often remained underrated.

Feb 7, 2025, 2:17 PM13 min read

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football | sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Getty Images)

Football is a sport that often brings limelight to certain footballers but sometimes keeps many at bay. Around football discussions worldwide, these footballers are not mentioned often, even after achieving significant accolades. 

Talking about the underrated footballers in International football, we must understand that it is very different from club football. It is tougher to leave a mark except performing in the continental and World Cup-like tournaments in every four years.

However, these footballers have always performed masterfully well while donning their national kit, bringing noteworthy achievements to their respective nations. Still, they have remained underrated in the consideration of either the fans or the football pundits.

Sportz Point explores the top 20 most underrated players in international football in this special article. This list is not a rank, but a summarisation of some underrated footballers who deserve more praise. 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

Angel Di Maria

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Argentina
  • Position: Right Winger
  • Appearances: 145
  • Goals: 31
  • Assists: 32

Notable trivia: Angel Di Maria is not given the importance he deserves for the recent successes of the Argentina National team. The 36-year-old winger retired from international football in July 2024, leaving behind an unmatched legacy. 

Most importantly, Di Maria won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles in 2020 and 2024, and the Finalissima 2022, as he scored in each of the finals for Argentina except for the 2024 Copa, showing his towering presence for the national team. 

Di Maria remained underrated for the gigantic presence of Lionel Messi as his teammate, but nothing can belittle his huge contribution to Argentina's recent success of winning four trophies in four years.

Thomas Muller 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 131
  • Goals: 45
  • Assists: 41

Notable trivia: Thomas Muller has 10 goals and 6 assists in 19 World Cup appearances for Germany. The attacking midfielder registered 5 goals and 3 assists in his first-ever World Cup campaign in 2010, earning him the Golden Boot.

In the following World Cup, Muller was pivotal in Germany's World Cup glory, having scored 5 goals and 3 assists. Although he lost the Golden Ball to Lionel Messi that year, Muller was undoubtedly the best player of the German team, along with Manuel Neuer and Miroslav Klose.

Muller won the 2014 World Cup and finished third in EURO 2012 with Germany, as he retired in July 2024 after Germany's elimination from the EURO 2024.

Olivier Giroud

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 137
  • Goals: 57
  • Assists: 15

Notable trivia: Despite playing for a country that produced goalscorers such as Thierry Henry, Michel Platini, Karim Benzema, and David Trezeguet, Olivier Giroud tops the list of the all-time top scorers for the France national team with 57 goals.

Giroud's achievements are often overlooked both at the international and club levels, though he is one of the best French footballers of this generation. Giroud finished the EURO 2016 as the joint second-highest scorer, with 3 goals and 2 assists. 

Giroud was also part of the 2018 World Cup and 2021 Nations League-winning France team, providing significant contributions to the team. He also scored 4 goals for France in the 2022 World Cup. However, the striker retired from international football in July 2024.

Davor Šuker

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Croatia
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 68
  • Goals: 45
  • Assists: 6

Notable trivia: Davor Šuker is arguably the greatest Croatian footballer ever, leaving an unparalleled legacy behind him for the national team.

The year 1998 is popularly known as the 'Davor Šuker Year' among football fans, as the forward led the Croatia team to a third-place finish in the 1998 World Cup. He also scored 6 goals in 7 appearances in the tournament to earn the Golden Boot. 

Šuker also won the Silver Ball as the second-best player of the tournament in 1998 WC. He is the top Croatian goalscorer of all time as well, bagging 45 goals in 68 official appearances before retiring in 2002.

Antoine Griezmann

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 137
  • Goals: 44
  • Assists: 38

Notable trivia: Antoine Griezmann achieved innumerable honours with the France national team, but sadly, is often not regarded as one of the greatest international footballers ever. 

Griezmann led France to a second-place finish in EURO 2016, scoring 6 goals and 2 assists to win the Golden Boot. He was also named the Player of the Tournament in that edition.

However, Griezmann achieved his first senior international silverware in 2018, when France won the World Cup in Russia. The attacking midfielder was crucial for the team with a tally of 4 goals and the tournament-most of 4 assists, also being named the third-best player of the tournament.

Apart from the 2021 UEFA Nations League title, Girezmann orchestrated the French attack in the 2022 World Cup, providing three assists to be the joint-top assist provider. However, he retired from international football in September 2024.

Sergio Busquets

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Spain
  • Position: Defensive Midfielder
  • Appearances: 143
  • Goals: 2
  • Assists: 9

Notable trivia: We all are yet to see a central-defensive midfielder in modern football who has such a high IQ in reading the game, such as Sergio Busquets. 

Busquets was popularly called 'Octopus' for his immaculate passing ability and intimidating defensive screening without breaking a sweat most of the time. the Spanish midfielder became the heart of Barcelona but his contribution was often overlooked at the national team level.

In a star-studded midfield with Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, Busquets emerged as the only one of his kind, making significant contributions to Spain's World Cup glory in 2010 and EURO 2012 victory. Busquets retired from international football in December 2022.

Hugo Lloris

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Goalkeeper
  • Appearances: 145
  • Clean sheets: 68

Notable trivia: It is said in football, that being a goalkeeper is a 'thankless job'. Goalkeepers are always the last guardian of a team, but their contributions are hugely overlooked. Hugo Lloris, the former French goalkeeper is a burning example of that sensation.

Lloris kept three clean-sheets in all 7 appearances for France in the World Cup 2018, leading the team to the final glory. The French custodian has kept a staggering 68 clean-sheets overall for France in 145 appearances.

He also captained the Les Bleus in three World Cup editions from 2014 to 2022. Lloris retired from the national team in January 2023, being the most-capped player for France in history.

Edin Džeko

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 139
  • Goals: 67
  • Assists: 29

Notable trivia: Edin Džeko is not often mentioned as one of the best international footballers in the modern era, only because he represents a country like Bosnia, that mostly fail to apear in big tournaments.

Yet Džeko, the greatest Bosnian footballer, led the Bosnia team to its first-ever World Cup appearance in 2014 after scoring a whopping 10 goals to be the second-top scorer in the qualification round.

He also scored 9 goals in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round to be the second-top scorer in the qualification round as well. Džeko also ranks sixth among the active footballers with most international goals.

Michael Laudrup

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Denmark
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 103
  • Goals: 37
  • Assists: 14

Notable trivia: Michael Laudrup is often considered the greatest Danish footballer of all time, yet he doesn't always receive the full recognition that his remarkable talent deserves. He delivered outstanding performances for Denmark, scoring 37 goals in 103 appearances.

Laudrup won the 1995 Confederations Cup with Denmark, providing commendable performances throughout the tournament. German legend Franz Beckenbauer praised the Danish midfielder in the best possible way, saying, “Pele was the best in the 60s, Cruyff in the 70s, Maradona in the 80s, and Laudrup in the 90s.”

Gabriel Batistuta

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Argentina
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 56
  • Assists: 14

Notable trivia: Gabriel Batistuta was nicknamed 'Batigol' for his ability to score from almost anywhere on the pitch with unmatched power and precision.

Batistuta was mostly recognized for his inhuman performance in the 1991 Copa America, as Argentina won the title and he was the highest goalscorer of the tournament with 6 goals. He won his second Copa with Argentina in 1993, scoring a brace in the final.

Although he could not achieve the coveted success in the World Cups, Batistuta was one of the greatest footballers for Argentina in the World Cups, with 10 goals in 12 appearances.

Andrea Pirlo

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Italy
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 116
  • Goals: 13
  • Assists: 25

Notable trivia: Current UEFA vice-president and former Polish footballer Zbigniew Boniek praised Andrea Pirlo by saying something that probably best defines the Italian midfielder. He stated, "To pass the ball to Andrea Pirlo is like to hide it in a safe."

Andrea Pirlo is inarguably one of the most prolific playmakers who ever graced the football pitch. Famous for his outstanding passing and free-kick skills, Pirlo was essential to Italy's victory in the 2006 World Cup. Pirlo won three man of the match awards in the tournament, most by any player in that edition. 

Retiring in 2017, Pirlo remains one of the supreme players who played exceptionally well at international levels, but the recognition was never enough to praise the midfied maestro.

Ronald Koeman

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Netherlands
  • Position: Defender
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 14
  • Assists: 10

Notable trivia: Ronald Koeman is often overlooked, but he was a top-tier central defender known for his exceptional passing ability and masterful free-kick skills. With a record of 238 goals across club and international levels, Koeman is the highest-scoring defender in football history. 

However, the defender was a crucial part of Rinus Michels' formidable Netherlands team in the 90s, which won the 1988 European Championship. He also won the Dutch Footballer of the Year award twice in 1987 and 1988.

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Netherlands
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 76
  • Goals: 42
  • Assists: 12

Notable trivia: Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is often overlooked among the contemporary Dutch stars of his generation. The forward is the third-highest goalscorer for the Dutch national team, with 42 goals.

Although he had a brief appearance in the 2010 World Cup, Huntelaar proved himself crucial for the team, scoring the most goals (12) in the 2012 European championship qualification round.

However, he was also a part of the Netherlands squad that finished third in the 2014 World Cup. He retired in 2021 but never got the recognition he deserved.

George Best

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Northern Ireland
  • Position: Winger
  • Appearances: 37
  • Goals: 9
  • Assists: 0

Notable trivia: "Maradona Good, Pele Better, George Best" is the greatest quotation that can define how good George Best was. The Irish winger is also considered as the greatest footballer who never played in a World Cup. 

Despite having immense talent and potential, he is often overlooked in the discussion of the greatest footballers. He was named European Player of the Year in 1968, delivering consistent performance for his club and national team.

If he did not struggle with his self-destructing lifestyle, he may have achieved more accolades with Northern Ireland before retiring in 1982.

Gheorghe Hagi

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Romania
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 124
  • Goals: 35
  • Assists: 23

Notable trivia: Gheorghe Hagi was such a good player that he was nicknamed "Maradona of the Carpathians". The attacking midfielder was also called 'Regele', which translates to 'The King' for his immaculate shooting ability, playmaking skills, and vision on the pitch.

The attacking midfielder was the heart of an exciting Romania team of the 1990s. Hagi put up a memorable performance for Romania in the 1994 World Cup, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists to lead the team to the quarter-finals, where they eventually lost against Sweden.

He retired in 2001 but still holds the record for the most goals scored for the Romania national team, alongside Adrian Mutu, with 35 goals.

Günter Netzer

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 37
  • Goals: 6
  • Assists: 9

Notable trivia: Günter Netzer played an integral role in Germany's 1972 European Championship victory.
The midfielder provided two assists in the semi-final of the tournament, inspiring a 2-1 win over Belgium.

Netzer was also included in the 1974 World Cup squad for Germany. Although he did not play in the final, Netzer is still regarded as the first World Cup winner who, at the time of his victory, played for a club based outside his home country.

Despite not having many opportunities to represent the national team, he was often considered as one of the best German footballers in the 70s.

Hristo Stoichkov

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Bulgaria
  • Position: Winger
  • Appearances: 83
  • Goals: 37
  • Assists: 8

Notable trivia: Hristo Stoichkov was the standout performer in the 1994 World Cup as he inspired Bulgaria to a fourth-place finish and was awarded the Golden Boot for being the top scorer with 6 goals. In the tournament, he scored in the shock wins against Argentina in the Group stage and against Germany in the quarter-finals.

Stoichkov, who re-defined the 'inverted winger' role in world football, scored 37 goals in 83 games for the Bulgarian national team before retiring from international football in 1999.

Gaetano Scirea

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Italy
  • Position: Sweeper Defender
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 2
  • Assists: 1

Notable trivia: Despite Franco Baresi's absence, Gaetano Scirea was pivotal in Italy’s victorious 1982 World Cup-winning campaign. The defender, who played mostly as a sweeper, remained underrated due to his contemporary Italian defenders. 

Playing for a country where the best defenders are born and brought up, Scirea always stayed out of the recognition. His untimely death at the age of 36 in 1989 also restricted his legacy.

Rudi Völler 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 90
  • Goals: 47
  • Assists: 18

Notable trivia: Rudi Völler was a very dependable player striker at both club and international levels. He came off the bench to equalize in the 1986 World Cup Final after scoring in the semi-final against France. Unfortunately, the Germans lost the final against Argentina. However, after four years, he played a crucial role for Germany that became World Champions in 1990, scoring 3 goals and 2 assists.

His contemporary Jurgen Klinsmann always received the highlight for the Germans, but it can not tear down his achievements with the national team. Völler's international goal-scoring record is impressive with a staggering 47 goals in 90 caps.

Matthias Sammer

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Defensive/Central Midfielder
  • Appearances: 51
  • Goals: 8
  • Assists: 3

Notable trivia: Matthias Sammer was sometimes overlooked compared to their contemporary Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini. However, he played a crucial role in Germany's victory at the 1996 European Championship, where he was named the tournament's best player. 

The midfielder also won the Ballon d'Or in 1996 and was also named the German Footballer of the Year in 1996, after earning the same accolade in 1995.

Next Article

11 players who have won the most trophies in football history

Argentine legend Lionel Messi has won the most trophies in football history (46). Here are the other 10 players who follow him on this list most successful football history.

Jan 19, 2025, 9:19 AM17 min read

11 players who have won the most trophies in football history | sportzpoint.com

Many great players have taken the football pitch and left the fans in awe. However, only a few players have gone on to win various trophies in their careers. In this special article, we will take a look at an elite list of players who have won the most trophies in football as a player. 

Argentine football star Lionel Messi is the player with most trophies in football history. In his career so far, with club and country, he has won 46 major trophies. Moreover, he is one of the very few players to win FIFA World Cup. Ballon d'Or, and UEFA Champions League in his career. 

But, yes, the below list only counts the major trophies won with teams and only only individual awards. We wanted to be clear with that at the start. With this list of "11 players who have won the most trophies in football history," we will able to judge which player has been a part of a winning team mostly. 

Though, it is not always the case that when you win a trophy, you have a big role to play in that. But, in this list, all the players listed always had big contributions to their team's success. So, without further a due, let's checkout the list. 

Top 11 players with the most trophies in football:

11. Vitor Baia (34 trophies)

Vitor Baa won 34 trophies in his football career | Sportz Point
Vitor Baia with the 2004 UEFA Champions League Trophy for FC Porto.

Vitor Baia spent most of his career with FC Porto except playing two years for Barcelona. Baia started his career with FC Porto in 1988 and left the club to join Barcelona in 1996. 

Before retiring in 2007, he played for Barcelona in two stints and won the La Liga in 1997-98 season. His most success came his boyhood club FC Porto, where he won the Liga Portugal 10 times.

However, the biggest achievement was to win the UEFA Champions League in 2004 with the Dragons. Under the visionary eyes of Jose Mourinho, they created one of the greatest underdog success stories in European football.

In a total, Baia won 25 trophies with the Porto while adding the rest to his collection of glories for Barcelona. Unfortunately, he was not able to add any trophy while playing for Portugal.

# Achievement Year Club
1 Champions League Winner 03/04 FC Porto
2 Spanish Champion 97/98 FC Barcelona
3 UEFA Cup Winner 02/03 FC Porto
4 Europapokal der Pokalsieger Sieger 96/97 FC Barcelona
5 Spanish Cup Winner 97/98, 96/97 FC Barcelona
6 Spanish Super Cup Winner 97/98, 96/97 FC Barcelona
7 Portuguese Champion 06/07, 05/06, 03/04, 02/03, 98/99, 95/96, 93/94, 92/93, 91/92, 89/90 FC Porto
8 Portuguese Cup Winner 2006, 2003, 2000, 1994, 1991 FC Porto
9 Intercontinental Cup Winner 2004 FC Porto
10 Portuguese Super Cup Winner 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2000, 1995, 1994, 1992, 1991 FC Porto

10. Kenny Dalglish (34 trophies)

Sir Kenny Dalgish won 34 trophies in his career | Sportz Point
Sir Kenny Dalgish.

Scottish legend Sir Kenny Dalglish is Liverpool's one of the most legendary players. Apart from playing 13 years for the Reds, he played for Celtic for 8 years at the start of his career.

For Liverpool FC, he won a club record 8 Premier League titles along with three Champions League titles. He had won 7 English Super Cups and 2 FA Cup titles as well.

While playing for Celtic, he became the Scottish Champion four times.

# Achievement Year(s) Club
1 European Champion Clubs' Cup Winner 83/84, 80/81, 77/78 Liverpool FC
2 English Champion 89/90, 87/88, 85/86, 83/84, 82/83, 81/82, 79/80, 78/79 Liverpool FC
3 UEFA Supercup Winner 77/78 Liverpool FC
4 English FA Cup Winner 1989, 1986 Liverpool FC
5 English Super Cup Winner 89/90, 88/89, 86/87, 82/83, 80/81, 79/80, 77/78 Liverpool FC
6 English League Cup Winner 1984, 1983, 1982, 1981 Liverpool FC
7 Scottish Champion 76/77, 73/74, 72/73, 71/72 Celtic FC
8 Scottish Cup Winner 76/77, 74/75, 73/74, 71/72 Celtic FC
9 Scottish League Cup Winner 74/75 Celtic FC
Total Trophies 34

9. Angel di Maria (35 trophies)

Most Trophies in football history: Angle di Maria - 42 | sportzpoint.com
Di Maria kissing the FIFA World CUP 2022 Trophy | Image - Mundo Deportivo

One of the most underrated players in modern football history, Di Maria always had to shine under the shadows of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Di Maria played alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina and then shared club dressing room with Cristiano at Real Madrid.

With his latest trophy for Benfica in the Portuguese Super Cup, he now has won 35 trophies in his career. Di Maria won five Ligue 1 titles with PSG and won his only Champions League title with Real Madrid.

Read Also | Football facts: 10 players who have played most games with Lionel Messi

However, just like Lionel Messi, his international success bloomed late in his career. He won the Copa America twice in 2021 and 2024. But, his major success was to win the FIFA World Cup 2022, where he scored an important in the final.

Di Maria retired from international football after the 2024 Copa America final.

# Achievement Year(s) Team Count
1 World Cup Winner 2022 Argentina 1
2 Copa América Winner 23/24, 20/21 Argentina 2
3 Champions League Winner 13/14 Real Madrid 1
4 Spanish Champion 11/12 Real Madrid 1
5 French Champion Multiple Years Paris Saint-Germain 5
6 UEFA Supercup Winner 14/15 Real Madrid 1
7 French Cup Winner Multiple Years Paris Saint-Germain 4
8 Spanish Cup Winner 13/14, 10/11 Real Madrid 2
9 French League Cup Winner Multiple Years Paris Saint-Germain 4
10 Spanish Super Cup Winner 12/13 Real Madrid 1
11 Portuguese Champion 09/10 SL Benfica 1
12 Portuguese League Cup Winner Multiple Years SL Benfica 3
13 Under-20 World Cup Champion 2007 Argentina U20 1
14 CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions Winner 21/22 Argentina 1
15 French Super Cup Winner Multiple Years Paris Saint-Germain 5
16 Olympic Medalist 2008 Argentina Olympic Team 1
17 Portuguese Super Cup Winner 2024 SL Benfica 1
Total Titles 35

8. Cristiano Ronaldo (35 trophies)

Cristiano Ronaldo has won 35 trophies in his football career | Sportz Point
Ronaldo with his latest trophy for Al-Nassr FC.

Arguably one of the greatest players in the history of football, Cristiano Ronaldo has 35 trophies in his cabinet at the moment. The Portuguese legend won his latest trophy for Al-Nassr FC as he helped them win the United Arab Club Champions Cup 2023.

Ronaldo, who started his club career with Sporting CP, won the Portuguese Super Cup with the club in 2003. That was the start to a historical career which gave football fans joy for over two decades.

Read Also: Top 10: Most Free-kick Goals In Football History (Updated)

The Portuguese legend flourished under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. He then joined Real Madrid where he won four of his five UEFA Champions League titles. Ronaldo has won a title for every club he has played for so far.

However, one of his biggest achievements as a player was to win the UEFA Euro Cup with Portugal in 2016. Beside scoring over 900 career goals, Ronaldo's success for every team is what makes him a legend.

# Achievement Year(s) Club/National Team
1 European Champion 2016 Portugal
2 Champions League Winner 17/18, 16/17, 15/16, 13/14, 07/08 Real Madrid, Manchester United
3 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2018, 2017, 2015, 2009 Real Madrid, Manchester United
4 English Champion 08/09, 07/08, 06/07 Manchester United
5 Spanish Champion 16/17, 11/12 Real Madrid
6 Italian Champion 19/20, 18/19 Juventus FC
7 UEFA Supercup Winner 17/18, 16/17, 14/15 Real Madrid
8 Winner UEFA Nations League 2019 Portugal
9 English FA Cup Winner 2004 Manchester United
10 Spanish Cup Winner 13/14, 10/11 Real Madrid
11 Italian Cup Winner 20/21 Juventus FC
12 English League Cup Winner 2009, 2006 Manchester United
13 Spanish Super Cup Winner 17/18, 12/13 Real Madrid
14 Italian Super Cup Winner 20/21, 18/19 Juventus FC
15 English Super Cup Winner 07/08 Manchester United
16 Portuguese Super Cup Winner 2003 Sporting CP
17  Arab Club Champions Cup 2023 Al-Nassr 
Total Trophies 35

7. Ryan Giggs (37 trophies)

10 players who have won the most trophies in football history - Ryan Gigs - 36 trophies - sportzpoint.com
Gigs with the Champions League title for Manchester United.

Ryan Giggs played all his life for one football club; Manchester United. In his 24-year career at the club, he won a total of 37 trophies, a record for the club.

Not only that, with 13 Premier League titles, he is league's most successful player ever. With the Red Devils, he also went on to win two UEFA Champions League title.

For United, he played 963 games and has 168 goals and 265 assists, another record for United.

# Achievement Year(s) Club
1 Champions League Winner 07/08, 98/99 Manchester United
2 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2009 Manchester United
3 English Champion 12/13, 10/11, 08/09, 07/08, 06/07, 02/03, 00/01, 99/00, 98/99, 96/97, 95/96, 93/94, 92/93 Manchester United
4 UEFA Supercup Winner 91/92 Manchester United
5 English FA Cup Winner 2004, 1999, 1996, 1994 Manchester United
6 English Super Cup Winner 13/14, 10/11, 08/09, 07/08, 03/04, 97/98, 96/97, 94/95, 93/94 Manchester United
7 English League Cup Winner 2010, 2009, 2006, 1992 Manchester United
8 Intercontinental Cup Winner 1999 Manchester United
Total Titles 37

6. Sergio Busquets (38 Trophies)

Sergio Busquets won 38 football trophies in his career | sportzpoint.com
Busquets showing off his trophies from Treble winning season. 

Sergio Busquets, the FC Barcelona and Spain legend is one of the most underrated players ever to play. The central defender was part of one of the greatest international team which won 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2010 Euros for Spain.

Read Also: Barcelona team that won "EVERYTHING" in 2009: Busquets to leave as the last man of that team

The former Barcelona captain won 9 La Liga titles. Not only that, he won 7 Spanish Cups and Spanish Super Cups as well for the Catalan club.

However, his biggest achievement in club football was to win three UCL titles for Barcelona. His latest trophy is the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners with Inter Miami CF.

# Achievement Year(s) Team
1 World Cup Winner 2010 Spain
2 European Champion 2012 Spain
3 Champions League Winner 14/15, 10/11, 08/09 FC Barcelona
4 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2016, 2012, 2010 FC Barcelona
5 Spanish Champion 22/23, 18/19, 17/18, 15/16, 14/15, 12/13, 10/11, 09/10, 08/09 FC Barcelona
6 UEFA Supercup Winner 15/16, 11/12, 09/10 FC Barcelona
7 Spanish Cup Winner 20/21, 17/18, 16/17, 15/16, 14/15, 11/12, 08/09 FC Barcelona
8 Spanish Super Cup Winner 22/23, 18/19, 16/17, 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 09/10 FC Barcelona
9 Supporters' Shield Winner 23/24 Inter Miami CF
10 Leagues Cup Winner 2023 Inter Miami CF
Total Titles 38

5. Maxwell (38 trophies)

Maxwell won 38 trophies in his club career | Sportz Point
Maxwell won four consecutive Ligue 1 titles with PSG.

Maxwell, the Brazilian left back might be the only unknown player on this list. The defender achieved most of his success playing for PSG in France.

However, he found success with FC Barcelona as well. But, joined PSG to find more chances as well.

Maxwell's first trophy was with Cruzeiro, winning the Brazilian Cup in 2000. Soon the joined Ajax, wining two Dutch League titles.

His move to Barcelona via Inter Milan and FC Empoli saw him winning the UEFA Champions League title in 2011. But his most success came with PSG, winning the Ligue 1 four times in a row from 2013 to 2016.

# Achievement Year(s) Team
1 Champions League Winner 10/11 FC Barcelona
2 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2012, 2010 FC Barcelona
3 Italian Champion 08/09, 07/08, 06/07 Inter Milan
4 Spanish Champion 10/11, 09/10 FC Barcelona
5 French Champion 15/16, 14/15, 13/14, 12/13 Paris Saint-Germain
6 Uefa Supercup Winner 09/10 FC Barcelona
7 French Cup Winner 16/17, 15/16, 14/15 Paris Saint-Germain
8 Spanish Cup Winner 11/12 FC Barcelona
9 French League Cup Winner 16/17, 15/16, 14/15, 13/14 Paris Saint-Germain
10 Spanish Super Cup Winner 11/12, 10/11, 09/10 FC Barcelona
11 Italian Super Cup Winner 08/09 Inter Milan
12 Dutch Champion 03/04, 01/02 Ajax Amsterdam
13 Dutch Cup Winner 01/02 Ajax Amsterdam
14 Dutch Super Cup Winner 2005, 2003, 2002 Ajax Amsterdam
15 Brazilian Cup Winner 2000 Cruzeiro Esporte Clube
16 French Super Cup Winner 16/17, 15/16, 13/14 Paris Saint-Germain
Total Titles 38

Read Also: Messi vs Ronaldo: The hat-trick battle

4. Gerard Pique (39 trophies)

Gerard Pique won 39 trophies in his career | sportzpoint.com
Pique showing off his trophies from Treble winning season.

Another player from that legendary Spanish and Barcelona team, who features in this list. Although known for his career at FC Barcelona, Gerard Pique had success with Manchester United as well.

It might be quite revealing for many that, he played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, against whom he had some tough battles later.

Read Also | Reliving Barcelona's Golden Era: A Tribute to Footballing Brilliance

Pique won 9 La Liga titles for Barcelona to go with 3 UCL titles for the club. But before reaching there he had won the Premier League and Champions League for United in the 2007-08 season.

He was also an integral part of the Spanish team which won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and UEFA Euro in 2012.

# Achievement Year(s) Team
1 World Cup Winner 2010 Spain
2 European Champion 2012 Spain
3 Champions League Winner 14/15, 10/11, 08/09 (FC Barcelona), 07/08 (Manchester United) FC Barcelona, Manchester United
4 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2016, 2012, 2010 FC Barcelona
5 English Champion 07/08 Manchester United
6 Spanish Champion 22/23, 18/19, 17/18, 15/16, 14/15, 12/13, 10/11, 09/10, 08/09 FC Barcelona
7 UEFA Supercup Winner 15/16, 11/12, 09/10 FC Barcelona
8 Spanish Cup Winner 20/21, 17/18, 16/17, 15/16, 14/15, 11/12, 08/09 FC Barcelona
9 Spanish Super Cup Winner 18/19, 16/17, 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 09/10 FC Barcelona
10 English League Cup Winner 2006 Manchester United
11 European Under-19 Champion 2006 Spain U19
Total Titles 39

3. Andres Iniesta (39 trophies)

Andres Iniesta: Players with most trophies in Football history | Sportz Point

Probably the best midfielder of the modern era, Andres Iniesta with 41 trophies is the third most successful footballer ever.

Another important player of that iconic Spanish and Barcelona team, Iniesta found success early in his career. He won his first major trophy with Spain U-17 team winning the U-17 Euros in 2000. He followed that up with the U-19 Euro title next year.

His Barcelona career started in 2002 which continued till 2018. In those 17 year at Barcelona, he won 32 trophies. Post that, he joined Japanese club Viseel Kobe where he won three trophies as well.

Read Also | Andres Iniesta: Who has won the most trophies for FC Barcelona?

Along with all club level success, Iniesta's greatest achievement was to win the 2010 FIFA World Cup alongside lifting the 2008 and 2012 Euro Cup. His goal in the 2010 World Cup final to hand Spain their first-ever World Cup, is regarded as one of the greatest World Cup moments.

Iniesta called it a day in 2024 after spending a year at the Emirates Club. 

# Achievement Year(s) Team
1 World Cup Winner 2010 Spain
2 European Champion 2012, 2008 Spain
3 Champions League Winner 14/15, 10/11, 08/09, 05/06 FC Barcelona
4 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2016, 2012, 2010 FC Barcelona
5 Spanish Champion 17/18, 15/16, 14/15, 12/13, 10/11, 09/10, 08/09, 05/06, 04/05 FC Barcelona
6 Uefa Supercup Winner 15/16, 11/12, 09/10 FC Barcelona
7 Spanish Cup Winner 17/18, 16/17, 15/16, 14/15, 11/12, 08/09 FC Barcelona
8 Spanish Super Cup Winner 16/17, 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 09/10, 06/07, 05/06 FC Barcelona
9 European Under-17 Champion 2001 Spain U17
10 Japanese Champion 2023 Vissel Kobe
11 European Under-19 Champion 2002 Spain U19
12 Japanese Cup Winner 2019 Vissel Kobe
13 Japanese Super Cup Winner 2020 Vissel Kobe
Total Titles 41

2. Dani Alves (43 trophies)

10 players who have won the most trophies in football history: Dani Alves - 43 trophies | sportzpoint.com
Dani Alves celebrating the Olympic Gold medal in Tokyo. Image | sportstar

Before Lionel Messi took over as the player with most trophies in football history, it was Dani Alves who had the record. The defender won 23 trophies in eight years at Barcelona.

Dani Alves won six La Liga and three Champions League titles with Barcelona. He then won 19 more titles while playing for Juventus, PSG, and Sao Paulo. He won domestic titles in Italy, France, Brazil and Spain as, which makes him one of the greatest of his era.

Read Also: All the FIFA World Cup winners and runners-up since 1930

The defender won six major titles with his national team, Brazil. He started his Brazil career by winning the U-20 FIFA World Cup in 2003. Alves then won two Copa America titles in 2007 and 2019. He concluded his international career by winning the Olympic gold in 2021.

Despite the recent off-field controversies, with 43 trophies in his cabinet, Dani Alves is one of the greatest ever to play the game.

# Achievement Year(s) Team
1 Copa América Winner 18/19, 06/07 Brazil
2 Champions League Winner 14/15, 10/11, 08/09 FC Barcelona
3 FIFA Club World Cup Winner 2016, 2012, 2010 FC Barcelona
4 Spanish Champion 15/16, 14/15, 12/13, 10/11, 09/10, 08/09 FC Barcelona
5 Italian Champion 16/17 Juventus FC
6 French Champion 18/19, 17/18 Paris Saint-Germain
7 Uefa Supercup Winner 15/16, 11/12, 09/10, 06/07 FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
8 Uefa Cup Winner 06/07, 05/06 Sevilla FC
9 Spanish Cup Winner 15/16, 14/15, 11/12, 08/09, 06/07 FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
10 Italian Cup Winner 16/17 Juventus FC
11 French Cup Winner 17/18 Paris Saint-Germain
12 Spanish Super Cup Winner 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 09/10, 07/08 FC Barcelona, Sevilla FC
13 French League Cup Winner 17/18 Paris Saint-Germain
14 Confederations Cup Winner 2013, 2009 Brazil
15 Under-20 World Cup Champion 2003 Brazil U20
16 French Super Cup Winner 17/18 Paris Saint-Germain
17 Olympic Medalist 2021 Brazil Olympic Team
18.  Copa do Nordeste 2002 Bahia
19. Campeonato Paulista 2021 São Paulo
Total Titles 43

1. Lionel Messi (46 trophies)

11 players who have won the most trophies in football history: Lionel Messi with 46 trophies tops the list | sportzpoint.com
Messi celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2022 victory.

Leo Messi is the player with the most trophies in football history. With his latest triumph at the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winners, the magician from Argentina won his 46th trophy in his career.

Messi won back-to-back four international trophies with Argentina within three years. He won the Copa America 2021 and then went on to win the Finalissima 2022. Then he capped off his greatest achievement by winning FIFA World Cup 2022.

The Argentine maestro has also won the Olympic Gold Medal with his country in 2008. His latest international success came in Copa America 2024.

In club football history, Messi is the most successful player with 41 club trophies to his name. He started his career with his boyhood club Barcelona and played 18 seasons for the club, scoring a record 672 goals.

Read Also | Top 10 La Masia Graduates who ruled football

The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner won four Champions League titles with Barcelona. Alongside European success, he won 10 La Liga titles as well, most for Barcelona. He has also won Spanish Cup seven times.

After his great stint at Barcelona, Messi went to the French League to play for PSG. However, he was unable to bring the UCL to the French giant, he won the French League with them. In addition, he won the French Super Cup for the season 2022-23 with PSG.

# Achievement Year(s) Team Count
1 World Cup Winner 2022 Argentina 1
2 Copa América Winner 23/24, 20/21 Argentina 2
3 Champions League Winner Multiple Years FC Barcelona 4
4 FIFA Club World Cup Winner Multiple Years FC Barcelona 3
5 Spanish Champion Multiple Years FC Barcelona 10
6 French Champion 22/23, 21/22 Paris Saint-Germain 2
7 UEFA Supercup Winner Multiple Years FC Barcelona 3
8 Spanish Cup Winner Multiple Years FC Barcelona 7
9 Spanish Super Cup Winner Multiple Years FC Barcelona 8
10 Supporters' Shield Winner 23/24 Inter Miami CF 1
11 Leagues Cup Winner 2023 Inter Miami CF 1
12 Under-20 World Cup Champion 2005 Argentina U20 1
13 CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions Winner 21/22 Argentina 1
14 French Super Cup Winner 22/23 Paris Saint-Germain 1
15 Olympic Medalist 2008 Argentina Olympic Team 1
Total Titles 46
Note: Debangshu Biswas first wrote this article and then got updated by Koushik Biswas. Stats are taken from Transfermakrt.com and accurate as of 19-01-2025
Next Article

Argentina will likely face Japan and Qatar for exhibition matches in India

The Argentina National Football Team will travel to India in 2025 to play two exhibition matches in Kerala. The Messi-led Argentine team could face Japan and Qatar as potential opponents.

Nov 21, 2024, 9:22 AM4 min read

(Image Credit | ESPN)

Two of the top Asian football powerhouses, Japan and Qatar are being considered to compete against Argentina National Football Team for the exhibition matches In India. The matches are likely to be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, Kerala.

Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman announced in a press conference on Tuesday that the world champions will grace the Indian soil in 2025. AFA representatives are set to visit Kerala within six weeks and finalize Messi and co's trip to 'God's Own Country'

However, there have been no official confirmations on Argentina's potential opponents, but TOI has confirmed that AFA has asked for a list of opponents from the Kerala State Government, and AFA will choose their rivals themselves. 

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has also shared a heartfelt message on Facebook:

Kerala is a land that brought football to the heart. The love we have for football is that spreads across all the borders of nations. The visit to Kerala conducted by the world champions Argentina national team next year is becoming a recognition of the love of football of Kerala which the world looks at with awe. It is expected that Lionel Messi, one of the best footballers the world has ever seen, will also join the team.
It was only due to the constant intervention of the state government that this gift which was written by many was impossible to the sports lovers in Kerala. The merchant community of Kerala has expressed their willingness to bear the financial expenses. It is expected that the Argentine Football Association officials, who have taken a favorable stand from the beginning, will reach Kerala within a month and a half and make an official announcement.
It will be a moment when Kerala's name will be heard loudly in the world sports map. The visit of the Argentina team can give new energy to the sports culture and sports sector of Kerala. Let's get together enthusiastically to give a warm welcome to Messi and his team.

Confirmation awaits

Argentina will face two leading Asian teams for the friendlies in Kerala next year but the opponents are yet to be disclosed. However, the venue of the match is yet to be announced as the venue will be finalized after the AFA officials visit the State within the next six months. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi is the most suitable destination with a capacity of almost 42000.

The dates are not announced yet as well. However, two dates during the FIFA International break window in October 2025 are the tentative fixture as of now. Further discussions between the State Government and the AFA and the official announcement is yet to happen. 

Fans hope that Lionel Messi will come to India after 14 years since he played in Argentina's friendly match against Venezuela at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. However, Messi's arrival can only be confirmed after the official announcement as the Argentine legend will definitely be the center of attraction for Indian football fans.

Read Also | Trophies won by Argentina in International Football (Men's)

Next Article

The most shocking goal misses in Football history

From legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to the new superstars of football, there have been many distressing goal misses that remain iconic and unforgettable. Sportzpoint explores the most shocking goal misses in Football history.

Nov 11, 2024, 2:48 PM8 min read

The most shocking goal misses in Football history

Football is a sport full of drama, distress, excitement, and unforgettable moments that are cherished from generation to generation. Goals are the highlighting factor that decides the fate of a team and that is why the near-misses leave the fans in agony and sometimes change the course of football's history.

These fumbles in front of the goal are surprising and unexpected at the same moment. In this article, we delve into the most shocking misses in football history.

Erling Haaland 

(Manchester City vs Liverpool, 2022 FA Community Shield Final)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com

The Norwegian goal-machine emerged as an absolute cheat-code for Manchester City since his move to Man City in 2022. However, he came to England as and promising youngster but faced criticism from fans after his open goal miss in his very first match for Manchester City in the FA Community Shield Final on 30 July 2022 against Liverpool.

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com

Phil Foden unleashed a left-footed strike in the seventh minute of injury time and it was denied by Liverpool keeper Adrian, but Erling Haaland wasted an open chance to score from the second ball as he hit the crossbar from a close range to the goal. Liverpool won the game by 3-1.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting

(PSG vs Strasbourg, Ligue 1 2018-19)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Squawka Live)

The Cameroonian International featured for teams such as Bayern Munich and Paris-Saint Germain, and he was a part of the PSG squad who were runner-ups in the UCL 2019-20. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting also scored the winner in injury time against Atalanta in the quarter-final of the same UCL campaign.

However, Choupo-Moting got down in history for a bizarre instance in a 2-2 draw against Strasbourg in Ligue 1 during his first season with the French side. Christopher Nkunku successfully chipped the opponent keeper with a shot that was about to go in, but Choupo-Moting somehow stopped the shot on the line in an attempt to tap it in, but his intervention led the threat to get cleared. 

Neal Maupay

(Brentford vs Cardiff City, EFL Championship 2017-18)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Wales Online)

Neal Maupay, the French forward who spent most of his career in England, joined Brentford in 2017 and went on to be a headline for his incredible open-goal miss against Cardiff City in the 2017-18 EFL Championship. 

The golden opportunity emerged as Ollie Watkins won the possession in front of the box by beating Sean Morrison in a duel and he fooled the keeper to pass it to Maupay, who only had an open goal in front of him.

However, Maupay took some time to slot it home as defender Sol Bamba ran onto the goal-line to stop the shot. Surprisingly, Maupay did not let Bamba do anything as he fired it inches off the post. Brentford eventually lost the game by 0-2.

Cristiano Ronaldo

(Manchester United vs Sheffield United, Premier League 2006-07)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Sheffield Star)

Cristiano Ronaldo, arguably the greatest footballer ever, also finds himself on this unfortunate list. The dreaded Portuguese netted the most goals in football history, although his unbelievable miss came in his early days at Old Trafford. Ronaldo wasted this open-scoring chance during a Premier League game against Sheffield United in 2006.

A sublime backheel by Wayne Rooney opened a space in front of the box for the Red Devils as Ryan Giggs intercepted the pass before cutting a grounder through Sheffield's defence. The ball comfortably found Cristiano Ronaldo but his strike flew over the crossbar from a very close distance to the goal.

Lionel Messi 

(Argentina vs Trinidad and Tobago, Friendly, 2014)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com

Lionel Messi, the other footballer who is arguably considered the greatest footballer of all-time, has also entered this fateful list due to his unbelievable blunder for Argentina against Trinidad and Tobago on 4 June 2014, prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup. 

Angel Di Maria fired into the opponent box and released a comfortable pass before the ball could cross the goal-line, but Messi failed to respond quickly as the defender cleared the ball from in front of an open goal before even Messi could intercept.

Randal Kolo Muani

(France vs Argentina, 2022 FIFA World Cup Final)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com

This wasted scoring opportunity changed Argentina's football history as Argentina lifted the 2022 FIFA World Cup by beating France in penalties, following an unnerving 3-3 draw after extra time. 

The 120-minute Final showcased a brilliant display of football ending in a 3-3 draw between France and Argentina, before going down to penalties to decide the world champion. However, France could have snatched the World Cup if Randal Kolo Muani was not denied by Emiliano Martinez in the last minute of the game.

A lobbed pass was intercepted by Kolo Muani in front of Argentina's box as Nicolas Otamendi failed to intercept, but Kolo Muani's first-touch attempt was denied by Argentina keeper Emiliano Martine who stretched his leg to stop the shot. Only 47 seconds were left before the final whistle! This miss will remain iconic for the heroic save by Emi rather than the blunder by Kolo Muani.

Fernando Torres 

(Chelsea vs Manchester United, Premier League 2011-12)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Footy Accumulators)

Fernando Torres was arguably the top striker in the world in and around 2007 to 2010. Chelsea broke the British transfer record to acquire the Spaniard from Liverpool in January 2011. Somehow, 'El Nino' failed to replicate his Liverpool performance at Stamford Bridge, and his disappointing tenure with the Blues was highlighted by a moment during a match against Manchester United in September 2011.

Torres already scored the only goal for his team but Chelsea was behind 3-1. In the 83rd minute, Ramires played a beautiful through that cut the United defense open in half. Torres intercepted the ball and managed to ease past David de Gea with a skillful feint, having an open goal in front of him.

However, Torres surprisingly shot the ball wide of the post and missed the golden chance which went down as one of the worst misses in the Premier League history.

Yakubu Ayegbeni

(Nigeria vs South Korea, FIFA World Cup 2010)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Afrosport)

Nigeria faced South Korea in a do-or-die match after two consecutive defeats in the Group stage of FIFA World Cup 2010, and Yakubu Ayegbeni crashed the headlines but not quite for the right reasons.

Midfielder Yusuf Ayila delivered a ball right into the six-yard box where Ayegbeni received the pass, but he missed the absolute sitter from inches close to the goal. The match eventually ended in a 2-2 draw and Nigeria finished at the bottom of the group.

Ilija Sivonjic

(Dinamo Zagreb vs Cibalia Vinkovci, HNK 2006)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Vecernji)

Croatian footballer Ilija Sivonjic's open miss in 2006 for Dinamo Zagreb against Cibalia is widely considered one of the worst misses in football history. 

In the 33rd minute of the game, one of his Dinamo teammates slotted the ball on target. Although it went past the opposition keeper, it was stopped by Sivonjic who attempted a backheel to tap it in. The ball inexplicably bounced off the goal line and one of the Cibalia defenders sent it out of play. 

Ronny Rosenthal

(Liverpool vs Aston Villa, 1996)

The most shocking goal misses in Football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image credit | Birmingham Live)

Ronny Rosenthal started his Liverpool career very well, scoring 7 goals in his first 8 games. He even scored a hat-trick in his first game against Charlton. However, he couldn't keep up this great form later.

In 1992 during Pool's PL encounter against Aston Villa, Rosenthal wasted a golden opportunity to score. Rosenthal intercepted a long ball from David James and dribbled past the goalkeeper, but misfired his left-footed strike to hit the crossbar. This miss is still remembered as one of the worst misses in Premier League history.

Rosenthal later joked about this famous miss and said:

"Does it bother me? No it doesn't matter now. I'm glad it happened!

"I'm glad I missed because I'm still on the map [because of it]."

via Birmingham Live

Next Article

Best footballers born in each year from 1990 to 2000

Football produces an extraordinary array of talent every year, with each generation bringing new stars to the global stage. In this list, we'll highlight the best footballers born in each year from 1990 to 2000.

Nov 4, 2024, 1:34 PM12 min read

Best footballers born in each year from 1990 to 2000

From 1990 to 2000, we've seen the rise of great footballers whose talents have captured the hearts of fans, and dominated leagues across the globe. Each birth year from this era produced footballers who impacted the sport through skill, consistency, leadership, or an uncanny ability to deliver in crucial moments.

This breakdown spotlights the best footballers born in each year from 1990 to 2002—those who not only excelled individually but often led their teams to unprecedented success. Let's dive right in.

Read Also| Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player to make 50 LaLiga appearances

Toni Kroos- 1990

Toni Kroos in the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 final - sportzpoint.com

Arguably one of the best central midfielders to play the beautiful game. Born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, East Germany, Kroos honed his technical skills early, growing up in a family steeped in athleticism—his father, Roland, was a professional football coach.

Kroos began his professional journey at Bayern Munich, joining their youth ranks in 2006 and making his Bundesliga debut at 17. Although he showed flashes of brilliance, the crowded Bayern midfield prompted a loan move to Bayer Leverkusen in 2009.

At Leverkusen, he refined his game, and when he returned to Bayern in 2010, he established himself as a key member of the squad. 

Over the next four years, Kroos became integral to Bayern's dominance, which culminated in the historic 2013 treble under Jupp Heynckes.In 2014, following Germany’s World Cup victory where he shone as one of the tournament's best footballers, Kroos transferred to Real Madrid for €25 million.

At Real Madrid, he quickly became an essential component of the midfield trio alongside Luka Modrić and Casemiro. Together, they formed one of the most successful midfield units in recent football history, helping Real Madrid win three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018.

With a playing style defined by his extraordinary vision, passing precision, and composure under pressure, Kroos has achieved a remarkable career, setting a benchmark for modern midfield play.

Read Also| ISL 2024-25 | Alaeddine Ajaraie sets record for being the first-ever player to score in first 7 ISL games

Kevin De Bruyne- 1991

Man City vs Real Madrid UCL 2023-24 Quarter-final 2nd Leg LIVE: De Bruyne levels things at Etihad as the game goes to ET | sportzpoint.com

Kevin De Bruyne is regarded as one of the world’s most complete midfielders, he combines creative vision with technical precision and physical endurance to impact every aspect of the game.

The player was born on June 28, 1991, in Drongen, Belgium. De Bruyne’s professional career began at Genk, where he won the Belgian Pro League title in 2011. His standout performances attracted the attention of Chelsea, which he joined in 2012.

However, limited opportunities and loan spells to Werder Bremen ultimately resulted in his move to Wolfsburg in 2014. At Wolfsburg, De Bruyne flourished, leading the Bundesliga in assists and winning the German Footballer of the Year award in 2015, this convinced Manchester City to invest a then-club record of £55 million in him later that year.

He has gone on to win 6 Premier League titles and 1 Champions League title amongst other trophies at Manchester City. His crossing and passing range allow him to consistently unlock defenses, while his powerful and precise shot makes him a goal-scoring threat from any distance.

Statistically, he has consistently ranked among the top footballers in assists across Europe, having twice equaled the Premier League single-season assist record of 20, matching Thierry Henry’s record.

Kevin De Bruyne’s legacy is one of technical mastery and midfield brilliance. The Belgian International will get into the Premier League Hall of Fame once he retires from football.

Neymar- 1992

Players with most assists in international football-sportzpoint.com

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, known simply as Neymar, is one of the most skillful footballers of the 21st century. Born on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil, Neymar has built a career defined by his creativity and flair he can easily be described as an entertainer with the ball.

Neymar’s rise to fame began in the youth ranks of Santos FC, where he quickly established himself as a generational talent. In 2010, at just 18, he won the Campeonato Paulista and the Copa do Brasil, and a year later led Santos to their first Copa Libertadores title since 1963.

At Barcelona, Neymar became part of the famed "MSN" trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. His time in La Liga saw him win the treble in 2015 (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League). During his four seasons with the club, Neymar consistently ranked among the top scorers and assist leaders.

Neymar has been crucial in Brazil’s pursuit of international glory, leading them to victory in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and earning a historic Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. 

Harry Kane- 1993

Youngest players to score 50 Premier League Goals-sportzpoint.com

Harry Kane, one of the Premier League’s most prolific scorers of all time, has consistently shattered records since his debut for Tottenham Hotspur. With a remarkable ability to score from almost any position, Kane became Tottenham’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing the long-standing record held by Jimmy Greaves.

Known for his clinical finishing, sharp positioning, and impressive footwork, Kane's prowess is reflected in his multiple Golden Boots, awarded to the league's top scorer. His tally of over 200 Premier League goals places him among an elite group, with only Alan Shearer ahead of him on the all-time scoring list.

He eventually left Tottenham Hotspur for Bayern in the summer of 2023 in the hopes of winning silverware.

Read Also| Cristiano Ronaldo's stats at Al-Nassr: Goals, Glamour But No Trophies

Bernado Silva- 1994

Turkey vs Portugal: Bernardo Silva celebrates Portugal's first goal of the game

Bernardo Silva, a dynamic and versatile midfielder for Manchester City, has been pivotal to the club’s recent success in the Premier League and beyond. Since joining City from AS Monaco in 2017.

His sharp dribbling, relentless work rate and creativity have made him a fan favorite and a crucial part of Pep Guardiola’s system. Silva has won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. 

The Portuguese also played a key role in City’s historic treble-winning season in 2023, which included the club’s first UEFA Champions League victory.

His technical skill allows him to excel in various midfield roles and even on the wings. Known for his intricate passing and vision, he consistently helped him to contribute to both goals and assist for City.

Joshua Kimmich- 1995 

Joshua Kimmich's goal helped Bayern Munich qualify for the UEFA Champions League 2023-24 semi-finals | sportzpoint

Born on February 8, 1995, in Rottweil, Germany, Kimmich began his footballing journey in the youth ranks of VfB Stuttgart before making his professional debut in 2013. His exceptional performances quickly caught the attention of Bayern Munich, who signed him in 2015.

Initially starting his career as a right-back, Kimmich showcased remarkable adaptability, eventually transitioning into a central midfield role where he has flourished.

Significant accomplishments during his tenure at Bayern Munich include several Bundesliga crowns, DFB-Pokal medals, and a 2020 UEFA Champions League triumph.

Kimmich's remarkable passing range, vision, and hard ethic define his style of play. He can join the attack and frequently dictates play from deep positions due to his deep understanding of the game. 

He was a member of the team that advanced to the UEFA European Championship semifinals in 2016 and the FIFA Confederations Cup semifinals in 2017, when Germany won.

Rodri- 1996

Ballon d'Or winners list of top three positions in last 5 years-sportzpoint.com

Rodrigo Hernández Cascante has rapidly established himself as one of the premier defensive midfielders in modern football. Born on June 22, 1996, in Madrid, Spain, Rodri's footballing journey began in the youth system of Rayo Vallecano before he joined Atlético Madrid’s academy.

Rodri made his professional debut for Atlético Madrid in 2015 and quickly showcased his immense potential, earning a reputation for his tactical awareness, and physicality, he joined Villarreal CF, where he further developed his game, becoming a key figure in the midfield and attracting attention from major clubs across Europe.

His standout performances at Villarreal ultimately led to his transfer to Manchester City in 2019 for a reported fee of €70 million, making him one of the most expensive midfielders in history.

Rodri's performances in the 2022–2023 season increased to unprecedented levels, and he played a significant role in Manchester City's historic treble-winning campaign. His game-winning goal against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final remains memorable for City fans.

He won Player of the Tournament at the Euros 2024 and helped Spain win the competition their first since 2012.  Rodri recently received the coveted Ballon d'Or in recognition of his achievements.

Lautaro Martinez- 1997 

Inter Milan 4-0 Crvena Zvezda - sportzpoint.com

Martínez's footballing journey began in the youth ranks of local club Liniers before moving to the youth academy of Racing Club. He made his professional debut for Racing in 2015, quickly gaining attention for his dynamic play and ability to score goals.

Martínez's breakout season came in 2017 when he helped Racing Club secure the Copa de la Superliga. His performances in Argentina did not go unnoticed, leading to a transfer to Inter Milan in 2018 for a reported fee of €22 million.

he became a pivotal figure in the club's attacking setup, forming a formidable partnership with Romelu Lukaku during the 2020-2021 season, which saw the team claim the Serie A title, ending Juventus's nine-year reign as champions.

Kylian Mbappe- 1998

Recent form: Real Madrid - sportzpoint.com

known for his blistering pace, technical skill, and clinical finishing. Mbappe was born on December 20, 1998, in Bondy, France, Mbappé's footballing journey began at a young age, influenced by his father, a football coach, and his mother, who was a former professional handball player.

He joined AS Bondy’s youth team before moving to Clairefontaine, France's national football academy, Mbappé made his professional debut for AS Monaco in 2015 at just 16 years old, quickly capturing attention with his extraordinary talent.

During the 2016-2017 season, he played a crucial role in helping Monaco secure the Ligue 1 title, scoring 15 goals and providing 11 assists. his performances secured a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017. Initially joining on loan, his transfer became permanent the following year for a reported fee of €180 million.

Over the years, he consistently ranked among the top goal scorers in Ligue 1, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups. 

During the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in leading France to victory. At just 19 years old, he became the youngest French player to score in a World Cup and was instrumental in the final against Croatia, scoring one goal and providing an assist. His performances earned him the FIFA World Cup Best Young Player.

Darwin Nunez- 1999

Darwin Nunez: Comparing the Uruguayan to the Best U23 strikers

Núñez, who was born in Artigas, Uruguay, on June 24, 1999, came from a poor upbringing and showed an early love for football. He started in the youth division of La Luz, his local club, before transferring to Penarol's youth system to further his development. 

When Núñez made his professional debut with Penarol in 2017, scouts were immediately drawn to him because of his strong build, quickness, and ability to score goals. In 2019, he moved to the Spanish team Almería as a result of his performances in the Uruguayan Primera División.

Several European clubs were interested in him because of his outstanding play in Spain, which finally resulted in a 2020 transfer to Benfica. He leaped in the 2021–2022 season, finishing as the Primeira Liga's top scorer with 26 goals and winning the Player of the Year title.

For an estimated €100 million, Núñez made a high-profile move to Liverpool FC in June 2022, becoming one of the most costly acquisitions in the team's history.

Núñez's intensity, quickness, and remarkable movement off the ball define his style of play. He has an excellent sense of direction and frequently finds himself in advantageous locations to take advantage of possibilities.

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Erling Haaland- 2000

Youngest players to score 50 Premier League Goals-sportzpoint.com

Erling Haaland has rapidly ascended to become one of the most formidable strikers in world football, known for his extraordinary goal-scoring ability, physical presence, and speed. 

Born on July 21, 2000, in Leeds, England, Haaland comes from a sporting family; his father, Alf-Inge Håland, was a professional footballer, and his mother, Gry Marita Braut, was a former heptathlete. 

Haaland began his career at Bryne FK, where he made his professional debut in 2016. His exceptional performances in the Norwegian top division caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a move to Molde FK.

In January 2019, Haaland joined Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg. His time in Salzburg proved to be a breakout period, as he gained international recognition for his goal-scoring prowess in both domestic and European competitions. In the 2019-2020 UEFA Champions League, Haaland became the youngest player to score 10 goals in the tournament, displaying his ability to perform on the biggest stages.

The Norwegian striker's impressive performances in Austria led to a transfer to Borussia Dortmund in December 2019, where he continued to flourish. 

At Dortmund, Haaland quickly established himself as one of Europe’s most lethal strikers, finishing as the Bundesliga’s top scorer in multiple seasons and regularly finding the net in the Champions League

Haaland completed a much-anticipated move to Manchester City in the summer of 2022, joining the Premier League winners for an estimated €60 million. In his first season, Haaland shattered several records with his amazing speed and finishing prowess.

He became the fastest player in Premier League history to score 20 goals and he broke the record for the most goals scored in a single Premier League campaign (36 goals). He became one of the footballers to reach 100 goals for a Premier League team.

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