FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano Highlights: Barcelona climb back to top of La Liga after a shaky 1-0 win over Vallecano
Robert Lewandowski scored the lone goal of the match from the penalty spot as Barcelona defeated Rayo Vallecano by 1-0 to climb back to the top of the La Liga points table.
Hello and welcome to our LIVE coverage of La Liga 2024-25. Tonight, we will cover the FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
After draws from Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid in their previous games, a win for FC Barcelona will put them at the top of the La Liga 2024-25 points table. The Catalan club are at number three position in the points table with 48 points.
But, Royal Vallecano will not be an easy opponent for them as they are in great form after creating a club record of nine games undefeated run. They have moved in to the top six from the middle of the table and they will certainly play for a debut in the UEFA Champions League next season.
So, sit back and relax as Koushik Biswas brings you all the buildup, LIVE updates, scores and news of the FC Barcelona vs Royal Vallecano match from Sportz Point's web desk.
LIVE Updates
Feb 17, 2025, 8:03 PM
Final Score
Feb 17, 2025, 10:17 PM
Final thoughts
It was not the way they would have loved, but important three points for Barcelona to get back to the top of the table. A few controversial decisions from the referee as well.
Catch the highlights of the match from the LIVE blog.
That's it from my side tonight. Thank you and Good night.
Feb 17, 2025, 10:15 PM
Points table after the match
#
Team
P
W
D
L
DIFF
Goals
Last 5
Pts
1
Barcelona
24
16
3
5
+40
65:25
D W W W W
51
2
Real Madrid
24
15
6
3
+29
52:23
W W L D D
51
3
Atl. Madrid
24
14
8
2
+23
39:16
L D W D D
50
4
Athletic Club
24
12
9
3
+16
37:21
W D D W D
45
5
Villarreal
24
11
8
5
+12
47:35
W D W W D
41
6
Rayo Vallecano
24
9
8
7
+2
27:25
D W W W L
35
7
Mallorca
24
10
4
10
-7
23:30
L L L D W
34
8
Real Betis
24
8
8
8
-1
30:31
L W D L W
32
9
Osasuna
24
7
11
6
-4
29:33
D D W D D
32
10
Girona
24
9
4
11
-3
32:35
L L W L L
31
11
Real Sociedad
24
9
4
11
-3
20:23
L L L W L
31
12
Sevilla
24
8
7
9
-5
29:34
W D D L W
31
13
Getafe
24
7
9
8
+2
20:18
D W D W W
30
14
Celta
24
8
5
11
-3
35:38
L D L W D
29
15
Espanyol
24
6
6
12
-13
23:36
W D W L D
24
16
Leganés
24
5
9
10
-13
22:35
W D L L D
24
17
Las Palmas
24
6
5
13
-12
29:41
L D L L L
23
18
Valencia
24
5
8
11
-13
25:38
W L W W D
23
19
Alavés
24
5
7
12
-10
28:38
W D L L D
22
20
Real Valladolid
24
4
3
17
-37
15:52
L L L L L
15
Feb 17, 2025, 10:01 PM
Full time | Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano
It was not easy for Barcelona. But, they have been able to get the three points they were looking for. Penalty from Lewandowski proved to be the difference maker.
A controversial goal was disallowed for Rayo Vallecano. A few chances were not taken by them as well.
Barcelona are not top of the table to with 51 points a better goal difference than Real Madrid.
Pedri wins the player of the match.
𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐀 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐀 𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐀 🔝
After a hard-fought 1-0 win against Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona climbed back to the top of the points table with 51 points and better goal difference than Real Madrid. #BarcaRayo#FCBarcelonapic.twitter.com/M7shxsbjGQ
Dani Olmo with a long run and then a through ball for Raphinha to enter the box. Batalla, came out running and closed the space out to negate the chance.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:34 PM
71' | Save from Batalla
Top class save from Batalla. He first tackled Dani Olmo and then the ball went to Raphinha, whose close range shot as saved by the goalkeeper.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:33 PM
69' | Barcelona not give a space
Vallecano players have been close enough to each Barcelona players so they are not allowed any space to enter the final third. Barcelona enjoying possession though.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:30 PM
67' | Save from Szczęsny
Good cross from the right by Garcia and Frutos this time was on-side and on-target. But, after a partial save, Szczęsny was able to get a full hold on the ball.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:28 PM
65' | Frutos with a chance
Frutos could not make full use of the cross from Rațiu.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:25 PM
62' | Double change for Barcelona
Danil Olmo and Kounde coming in for Barcelona. Fort and Gavi went out.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:23 PM
61' | Double change for Rayo
Gumbau and Embarba replaced Diaz and Nteka.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:23 PM
60' | Block by Mumin
Brilliant from Hector Fort to find Yamal with a back heel. Yamal's shot was blocked by Mumin.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:21 PM
58' | Weak from Pedri
This time Pedri's cutback from the right was a bit timid and weak. And, it went straight to the defensive wall of Rayo.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:20 PM
57' | Too long from Raphinha
Raphinha's cross from left was too long for anyone from Barcelona to meet on the right.
Fantastic move from Pedri. He outfoxed the defender with a quick turn and with a cutback found Lewandowski at the middle of the box.
However, Lewandowski missed the target with a right footed effort.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:14 PM
50' | Not so great night for Yamal so far
A long cross from left found Yamal at the edge of the box. But, he tried to outfox the defender with a header. At the end, it was easy save from Batalla
Feb 17, 2025, 9:11 PM
48' | Kounde warming up for Barcelona
Kounde was benched due to an internal reason. He was seen warming up along with four other players for Barcelona.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:10 PM
47' | Inigo with an interception
Early trouble for Barcelona as a Rayo Vallecano cross nearly have Nteka a chance to score. Inigo was there to intercept though.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:07 PM
No changes!
No changes from either teams at the start of the second half.
Feb 17, 2025, 9:07 PM
Second half-starts
Feb 17, 2025, 8:52 PM
Half-time | Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano
Barcelona head to the tunnel with a 1-0 lead at the half-time. Robert Lewandowski with the goal for them from a the penalty sport.
Rayo Vallecano had a few chances at the end the of the first half. A goal was disallowed as well.
We are certainly up for a good 45 minutes in the second half. Stay tuned.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:50 PM
45+2' | Rescue from Inigo
Inigo Martinez with a goal line clearance as Garcia's cross was nearly deflected inside the goal from De Jong.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:49 PM
45+2' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Gavi for a foul on Palazón.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:48 PM
45' | 3 minutes added
3 minutes have been added as injury time.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:46 PM
43' | Goal for Rayo but offside
Nteka is offside there and Rayo Vallecano's goal is denied.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:45 PM
43' | Chance for Rayo Vallecano
Garica with a good run on the left and his cross had given Rayo players with a chance to shoot from close range. But, no one took that change.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:43 PM
41' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Ratiu for pulling down Lewandowski's shirt.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:41 PM
37' | Save from Szczęsny
Huge save from Szczęsny as Diaz's cross gave Nteka a chance to go side footed from middle of the box.
Szczęsny made the save diving to his left.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:39 PM
36' | Frutos misses the target
Chavarría's cutback and then a cross had given Frutos with a chance to score with a volley.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:37 PM
34' | Save from Szczęsny
Ratiu's cross from the right was partially saved by Szczęsny as he got a finger tip to it.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:35 PM
🚨🇪🇸 GOAL | Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano | Lewandowski
Lamine Yamal with a huge chance to score from the close range. But, his left-footed effort was saved by Batalla.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:31 PM
28' | Goal from Lewandowski | BAR 1-0 RAY
Robert Lewandowski had sent Batalla the wrong way. The ball hit the post went inside the goal.
Goal No. 20 for Lewandowski this season in La Liga.
Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:29 PM
27' | Penalty given to Barcelona
Penalty given to Barcelona and yellow card to Ciss.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:28 PM
25' | VAR check is going on
A VAR check is going on for a possible penalty for Barcelona.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:27 PM
25' | Two back-to-back corners
Successive corners for Barcelona. Inigo meantime appealed for a penalty as he was pulled down by Ciss.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:26 PM
23' | Batalla with a save
Pedri with a delicious pass for Raphinha. The Brazilian went inside the box but his effort from close range was saved by Batalla.
The rebound ball luckily went back to him.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:23 PM
20' | Chance for Raphinha
Chance for Barcelona. Balde's cutback for Raphinha was not received well and as the Brazilian went for the far post, he went off-target.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:22 PM
19' | Pedri with a great recovery
Barcelona fans chants Pedri, Pedri as the Spaniard came running from behind to win the ball back from Frutos.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:20 PM
17' | Vallecano have been solid defensively
Although Barcelona have enjoyed the possession of the ball, Vallecano have not allowed them run away with anything so far.
They have hold their position and shape to go toe-to-toe with Barcelona.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:18 PM
16' | Nteka wins a free-kick
Nteka wins a free-kick after Inigo fouled him in the middle of the field.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:17 PM
14' | Chance for Barcelona
Lewandowski's through ball for Raphinha was in a dangerous position. But, after a poor first touch, Raphinha lost the chance.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:15 PM
13' | Corner for Rayo
First corner of the game for the visitors as Balde deflected the cross from Díaz.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:15 PM
12' | Mumin with a block
Lamine Yamal's shot from the edge of the box is blocked by Mumin.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:14 PM
11' | Waste from Inigo
Raphinha and Yamal had switched their sides and Balde played a cut back to Inigo, whose scoop was away over the head of Lewandowski, who was waiting in the middle.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:13 PM
10' | Two high pressing teams
Flick had already stated that since both the teams are high pressing, anything can happen in this kind of matches.
Barcelona have already trapped Rayo Vallecano offside thrice in 10 minutes.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:11 PM
8' | Balde with a through run
Blade kept on running with the ball and went inside the Rayo box as well. However, a final intervention kept the ball away from danger.
Raphinha's had a chance with a header but could not get the connection he was looking for.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:09 PM
7' | Yamal wins a free-kick
Chavarría pulled the shirt of Lamine and it is a free-kick for the Catalan club.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:07 PM
4' | Chance for Lewandowski
Martinez sent a pass to Balde for him to make a run on the right and then his cross for Lewandowski was perfect from the byline.
But, Lewandowski could hit the back of the net with his header.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:04 PM
2' | Barcelona win the ball back
Barcelona won the ball quickly and tried to send a long pass for Lamine Yamal to make a run. However, the ball was too long.
Feb 17, 2025, 8:02 PM
1' | Kick-off
Here we go! Rayo Vallecano starts things off!
Feb 17, 2025, 8:00 PM
Players are shaking hands
We are done with the formalities and ready to start.
Feb 17, 2025, 7:57 PM
Players are coming out of tunnel
Players of both teams are coming out of the tunnel.
Feb 17, 2025, 7:51 PM
Warmups are done!
Warmups are done and players will come out of the tunnel very soon.
Starting XI: A. Batalla, A. Rațiu, F. Lejeune, A. Mumin, J. Chavarría, I. Ciss, P. Díaz, J. de Frutos, I. Palazón, Á. García, R.
Subs: Dani Cárdenas, Iván Balliu, Alfonso Espino, Pelayo Fernández, Marco de las Sias, Aridane Hernández, Óscar Trejo, Adrián Embarba, Gerard Gumbau, Óscar Valentín, Sergi Guardiola, Etienne Eto'o Pineda.
Feb 17, 2025, 7:20 PM
Lineups | Barcelona
Starting XI: Szczęsny, Cubarsí, Balde, I. Martínez, Gavi, Pedri, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, F. De Jong, H. Fort
Subs: Iñaki Peña, Diego Kochen, Eric García, Ronald Araújo, Gerard Martín, Jules Koundé, Marc Casadó, Dani Olmo, Pablo Torre, Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Pau Víctor
Feb 17, 2025, 6:49 PM
Recent form | Rayo Vallecano
🗓️ 08 Feb 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Real Valladolid
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 1-0
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 01 Feb 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Leganés
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 1-0
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 26 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Girona FC
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 2-1
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 19 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Osasuna
🏆 Competition:Copa del Rey
🔹 Result:Draw1-1
📊 Outcome:D
🗓️ 17 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Real Sociedad
🏆 Competition:Copa del Rey
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano lost 1-3
📊 Outcome:L
🗓️ 11 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Celta Vigo
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 2-1
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 03 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Racing de Ferrol
🏆 Competition:Copa del Rey
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 3-1
📊 Outcome:W
Feb 17, 2025, 6:45 PM
Recent form | Barcelona
🗓️ 10 Feb 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Sevilla
🏆 Competition:Copa del Rey
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 4-1
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 07 Feb 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Valencia
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 5-0
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 02 Feb 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Deportivo Alavés
🏆 Competition:UEFA Champions League
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 1-0
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 30 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Atalanta
🏆 Competition:La Liga
🔹 Result:Draw2-2
📊 Outcome:D
🗓️ 27 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Home vs Valencia
🏆 Competition:UEFA Champions League
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 7-1
📊 Outcome:W
🗓️ 22 Jan 2025
🏟️ Venue: Away vs Benfica
🏆 Competition:UEFA Champions League
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 5-4
📊 Outcome:W
Feb 17, 2025, 6:40 PM
Recent meetings
🗓️ 28 Aug 2024
🏟️ Venue: Rayo Vallecano (Away for Barcelona)
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 2-1
🗓️ 19 May 2024
🏟️ Venue: Barcelona (Home)
🔹 Result:Barcelona won 3-0
🗓️ 25 Nov 2023
🏟️ Venue: Rayo Vallecano (Away for Barcelona)
🔹 Result:Draw1-1
🗓️ 27 Apr 2023
🏟️ Venue: Rayo Vallecano (Away for Barcelona)
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 2-1
🗓️ 14 Aug 2022
🏟️ Venue: Barcelona (Home)
🔹 Result:Draw0-0
🗓️ 25 Apr 2022
🏟️ Venue: Barcelona (Home)
🔹 Result:Rayo Vallecano won 1-0
Key Observations:
In the last 6 encounters, Barcelona has won 2, Rayo Vallecano has won 2, and 2 matches ended in a draw.
Rayo Vallecano has been a tricky opponent for Barcelona, managing 2 wins at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona showed improved form in the most recent meetings, remaining unbeaten in 3 consecutive games.
Low-scoring games have been common, with 4 out of 6 matches having 2 or fewer goals.
Feb 17, 2025, 6:37 PM
Barcelona - Rayo Vallecano H2H
Matches
Barcelona
Rayo Vallecano
Draws
20
15
3
2
Feb 17, 2025, 3:33 PM
How to watch the match in India?
Football fans from India can watch the FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano match LIVE on GXR app for free. Unfortunately there are no TV broadcasters for the above match.
Most goal contributions in every season since 2001 [Updated]
Here are the players with the most goal contributions (goals+assists) in every season in Europe's top 5 leagues and international competitions since 2001. Lionel Messi appears a record 9 times in this list.
Some players are famous for scoring goals, while some are famous for creating. However, sometimes football teams are blessed with such players who can do both things.
There are players with incredible goal-scoring skills as well as creative skills, and these players are rare. They bring so much value to the team that they become irreplaceable. In this article, we look at the players who have had the most goal contributions since 2001.
Keep in mind that this stat is made from the Top 5 Leagues in Europe and National & International competitions.
Players with the most goal contributions (2001-2010)
Thierry Henry finished as top goal contributor in consecutive seasons in 2003 & 2004
Year
Player
Teams
Goals + Assists
2001
Rivaldo
Barcelona, Brazil
46
2002
Raul
Real Madrid, Spain
42
2003
Thierry Henry
Arsenal, France
60
2004
Thierry Henry
Arsenal, France
55
2005
R. Makay
Bayern, Netherlands
51
2006
Ronaldinho
Barcelona, Brazil
50
2007
F. Totti
AS Roma, Italy
47
2008
L. Toni
Bayern, Italy
50
2009
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
56
2010
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
58
Two decades earlier than the present, the table looks well shuffled with no names popping off more than twice. However, little did we know that the 2009 season was just the start of the little magician's dominance in world football.
His impact on Pep Guardiola's Barcelona team was simply incomparable.
Thierry Henry is the only other player besides Messi who managed to be the top contributor twice in consecutive seasons. He was part of the golden generation of Arsenal, who won the Premier League title undefeated.
Players with the most goal contributions (2011-2023)
Messi showing off the 2012 Ballon d'Or. Image | 90Min
Year
Player
Teams
Goals + Assists
2011
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
77
2012
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
104
2013
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
76
2014
C. Ronaldo
Real Madrid, Portugal
68
2015
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
88
2016
Luis Suarez
Barcelona, Uruguay
81
2017
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
72
2018
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
63
2019
Lionel Messi
Barcelona, Argentina
71
2020
R. Lewandowski
Bayern, Poland
65
2021
R. Lewandowski
Bayern, Poland
56
2022
Kylian Mbappe
PSG, France
65
2023
Erling Haaland
Manchester City, Norway
60
2024
Harry Kane
FC Bayern Munich, England
56
2025
Raphinha
FC Barcelona, Brazil
59
Clearly, in the two charts, Lionel Messi is simply the most dominant player in the world.
He has appeared a record 9 times in the list, more than any player during this time period. However, Luis Suarez was the only player who sneaked into the table during the prime time of Messi and Ronaldo.
Lionel Messi's 2012 season still remains a record for the most goals scored in a calendar year (91). Erling Haaland had a fantastic 2022-23 season with Manchester City as he won the European treble and scored 52 goals.
In 2024-25, Raphinha finished with 59 goal contributions for FC Barcelona and Brazil.
In 2024, Harry Kane's transfer to FC Bayern Munich came in handy for him as he finished with 56 goal contributions in that season. The 2024-25 season saw Raphinha emerge at the top of the list with 59 goal contributions for FC Barcelona and Brazil.
The No.10 jersey in football is always an iconic one. Be it for any club, country or any team playing in a local tournament, usually the best player of the team or the attacker wears the No.10 jersey for the team.
FC Barcelona, one of the best and historical clubs in the World, had some of the greatest players ever to wear the No. 10 jersey for them. Today, in this article, we will discuss 10 legendary Barcelona players to wear jersey no. 10.
As Lamine Yamal became the latest Barcelona player to wear the Jersey No. 10, here are 10 legendary Barcelona players to wear jersey No. 10.
If you talk about any stats or legendary things about FC Barcelona, there is a chance that you will have to mention the little man from Argentina, Lionel Messi. Most goals, most trophies, most assists, most Ballon d'Ors, and many more records for the club - Messi has everything to his name.
Messi had 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances for FC Barcelona and left the club with the most number of titles. The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner wore the No.10 jersey for the first time in 2008 when Ronaldinho left the Catalan club to join AC Milan.
Since then, Messi has worn the iconic jersey for 14 years, before leaving the club as the greatest Barcelona player.
An Argentine legend followed by another one. One of the greatest footballers ever, Diego Maradona, who is known for his time at Italian Club Napoli, spent two seasons at FC Barcelona as well.
Although Maradona's stint at Barcelona was full of controversies and injuries, he scored 38 goals in 58 matches and won the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup for FC Barcelona.
3. Ronaldinho (2003–2008)
With his Samba magic and flair, Ronaldinho is regarded as one of the greatest Barcelona players ever. The Brazilian legend was there when Messi made his debut and gave him all the support to fill his shoes later. Before Messi, it was Ronaldinho, who used to wear the No. 10 jersey for FC Barcelona.
Ronaldinho scored 94 goals and provided 71 assists in 207 matches for FC Barcelona.
Alongside winning two La Liga titles, he also won the 2006 UEFA Champions League for the Spanish club.
Gary Lineker is one of the greatest English players ever to play for FC Barcelona. From 1986 to 1989, Lineker played for FC Barcelona in 138 matches, wearing the famous No. 10 jersey.
Lineker scored 51 goals for the Catalan club and helped them win the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1989.
5. Rivaldo (1997–2002)
Rivaldo, the Brazilian legend and captain, joined FC Barcelona in the 1997 season and played 235 games for the Catalan, the most he played for any club in his career. The attacking midfielder scored 130 goals for Barcelona and won four titles, including two La Liga titles.
Not only that, during his stint at Barcelona, he won the FIFA Best Player Award and Ballon d'Or award in 1999.
Since there was no consistency in jersey numbers during the 1930s and 1940s era, it is quite unclear how many games he played wearing the No. 10 jersey for FC Barcelona. But Cesar, who wore the No. 10 jersey occasionally for FC Barcelona, played 344 games for the club.
In those games, he scored 226 goals and won 11 trophies for the club, including 5 La Liga titles. With 28 goals, he also finished the 1948-49 season as the top scorer of La Liga.
7. Juan Román Riquelme (2002–2005)
Another Argentine legend is on the list of legendary players to wear the No. 10 jersey for FC Barcelona. Riquelme, the legendary Argentine attacking midfielder, though he only played 42 games for FC Barcelona, made his mark before leaving for Villarreal and Boca Juniors.
8. Michael Laudrup (1989–1994)
Laudrup, the Danish playmaker, was an integral part of Johan Cruyff’s dream team. The stylish midfielder played 226 games for FC Barcelona and scored 54 goals for the club. Along with his goals, Laudrup assisted 26 times as well.
Laudrup won 9 trophies for FC Barcelona, including 1 UEFA Champions League, 4 La Liga titles, 1 UEFA Supercup and 2 Spanish Super Cups. Post becoming FC Barcelona.
After his successful 1992 and 1993 seasons, Laudrup joined Real Madrid the next season.
9. Luis Suárez Miramontes (1955–1961)
One of the greatest Spanish midfielders, Luis Suárez Miramontes, is also one of the greatest FC Barcelona players. Luis Suárez Miramontes, in 176 games for FC Barcelona, scored 80 goals and assisted 21 times.
Suarez won two La Liga titles and two Spanish Cup titles for FC Barcelona before moving to Inter Milan, where he flourished as a striker and went on to win two Champions League titles as well.
But before leaving for Inter Milan, he won the 1960 Ballon d'Or while playing for FC Barcelona.
10. Hugo Sotil (1973–1976)
Hugo Sotil, the Peruvian striker, was one of the key players for FC Barcelona during the Johan Cruyff era. In 70 games, he scored 18 goals and helped FC Barcelona win the 1973–74 La Liga title.
Hugo was one of the key members of Barcelona's resurgence in the 1970s.
Who has scored the most goals in the 21st century? In this article, we present to you the top 13 highest-scoring footballers of the 21st century. Check where Messi and Ronaldo stand.
The 21st century has been a golden age for football, filled with breathtaking talents and goal-scoring giants. It gave us the legends whose legacy can never be matched, and moments to cherish for the longest time.
The footballers indeed took this sport to another level, shaping the modern era with passion and brilliance. Join us as we count down the highest-scoring footballers in the 21st century, celebrating their remarkable journey.
13. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (408 goals) | Netherlands
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar celebrating a winning goal in the added time for Netherlands in 2014 World Cup. Image | Facebook
Goals: 408
Matches: 738
Position: Forward
Securing the 13th position is Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar with 408 goals in 738 matches. He made his international debut in 2006 and was widely known for his lethal finishing. He reached the 2010 World Cup Final, where they ended up as runners-up.
Huntelaar won multiple Dutch Cups and Eredivisie titles for Ajax. He had a rollercoaster-like club journey, with his stints for AC Milan and Real Madrid. He later became a fan favourite for FC Schalke 04, where he was the Bundesliga's top scorer in 2011-12.
Samuel Eto'o celebrating a goal with a text on his shirt that reads "MERCI MAMAN," which translates to "Thank you Mom" in French. Image | X
Goals: 424
Matches: 872
Position: Forward
Cameroon's iconic striker and all-time leading goal-scorer, Samuel Eto'o, holds the 12th spot with 424 goals in 872 matches, after his international debut in 1997.
From winning an Olympic gold medal in 2000 to leading the Indomitable Lions to back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations (2000, 2002) and winning 3 La Liga titles and 2 Champions League titles (2006, 2009) for Barcelona, he has done it all.
He then moved to Inter Milan and achieved a historic treble in 2010, winning Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and another Champions League under Jose Mourinho. Samuel is the only player to win back-to-back trebles with different clubs.
Breakdown of Samuel's goals:
Club Matches
Club Goals
Country Matches
Country Goals
754
368
118
56
11. David Villa (426 goals) | Spain
David Villa celebrating a goal for Spain in 2010 FIFA World Cup. Image | Mint
Goals: 426
Matches: 827
Position: Forward
The former Spanish footballer, David Villa, holds the 10th position with 426 goals in 827 matches. He made his international debut in 2005 and has been unstoppable ever since. He was a crucial part of Spain's 2010 World Cup triumph, where his 5 goals made him a joint top scorer.
Villa also found immense success in his club career, where he won numerous titles forBarcelona, including the UEFA Champions League in 2011 and 2 La Liga titles. He also won another La Liga title with Atletico Madrid.
Additionally, he holds the record of being Spain's all-time top scorer, which is unmatched even years after his retirement (in 2019).
Sergio Aguero is an impressive Argentinian footballer who made his international debut in 2006, scoring 426 goals in 786 matches.
He won the 2021 Copa America with the national team, but unfortunately missed the chance to be a part of the World Cup-winning squad of 2022.
He became an icon for Manchester City, transforming into the leading goal-scorer, who played a key part in securing their first Premier League title in 44 years in 2012.
After that famous victory, he never looked back and went on to win 6 Premier League titles, 6 League Cups, and one FA Cup. He also holds the most Premier League hat-tricks (12 times).
Neymar is the only Brazilian footballer to make it to the top 10 of this list, with 442 goals in 731 matches. After his international debut in 2010, he quickly became the face of the national team.
He is now Brazil's all-time leading scorer, surpassing legendary Pele's long-standing record.
Neymar led Brazil to win an Olympic gold medal in 2016 and won the Confederations Cup in 2013. He also did brilliantly at club level, playing for Barcelona and PSG, and later moving to Al-Hilal and Santos.
Neymar is hands down the most exciting and effective attacker of his generation, who is equally fun to watch!
Cavani celebrating a goal against Portugal in 2018 World Cup. Image | Sky Sports
Goals: 456
Matches: 865
Position: Forward
The Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani, who debuted internationally in 2008, scored 456 goals in 865 matches, which earned him the deserved spot here. He played a key role in Uruguay's 2011 Copa America win.
His scoring rate and passion made him the leading goal-scorer for Paris Saint-Germain (a record later surpassed by Kylian Mbappe). During his time at PSG, he won a collection of trophies, including six Ligue 1 titles, four French Cups, and five French League Cups.
Cavani also had successful spells at Napoli, Manchester United, and Valencia.
Breakdown of Cavani's goals:
Club Matches
Club Goals
International Matches
Country Goals
729
398
136
58
7. Harry Kane (461) | England
Harry Kane celebrating a goal for England. Image | ESPN
Goals: 461
Matches: 714
Position: Forward
Breaking into the top goalscorers and finally breaking his much-discussed trophy drought is England's captain, Harry Kane, with an impressive 461 goals in 714 appearances.
After his debut in 2015, he quickly established himself due to his all-around striking ability, pinpoint passing, and other skills.
For years, Kane's individual excellence, including winning multiple Premier League Golden Boots, was paired with an absence of team silverware. This narrative finally changed in 2025, after his transfer to Bayern Munich, where he played a pivotal role in their dominant 2024-25 Bundesliga title win.
France and Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema is currently the sixth in the list of highest scoring footballers in the 21st century. One part of the famous B-B-C trio of Real Madrid, Benzema, is the second-highest goal scorer in Real Madrid's history.
Entering the Top 5 of highest scoring footballers in the 21st century is the Swedish maestro Zlatan Ibrahimovic with 558 goals in 949 matches. He was widely recognised for his boldness, acrobatic finishes and lively personality.
In his 10 years for Sweden (2006-2016), he became the top scorer with 62 goals, most likely to remain unmatched for a long time. He represented his nation in multiple World Cups and European Cups.
Moving on to his legendary individual records, he won the FIFA Puskas Award in 2013 for his phenomenal overhead kick against England. He is also the only player to score 50 Serie A goals for both Inter Milan and AC Milan.
Breakdown of Zlatan's goals:
Club Matches
Club Goals
Country Matches
Country Matches
827
496
122
62
4. Luis Suarez (574 goals) | Uruguay
Luis Suarez celebrates a goal for Uruguay. Image | BBC
Goals: 574
Matches: 972
Position: Forward
Uruguay's all-time leading goalscorer,Luis Suarez, makes his way to fourth rank with 574 goals in 972 matches. Known for his incredible skills and finishing, he was always a central figure in his nation's success since his debut in 2007.
Suarez won the 2011 Copa America and helped them reach the WTC semi-final in 2010. His club career is equally impressive. After winning the Dutch Cup with Ajax, he moved to Liverpool, becoming a Premier League top-scorer and earning a European Golden Shoe.
His prime time arrived at Barcelona, where he formed a fearsome attacking trio with Messi and Neymar. With Barcelona, he won La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey trophy, as well as the Champions League in 2015.
Lewandowski celebrating a goal for his nation. Image | The Bridge
Goals: 695 goals
Matches: 981
Position: Forward
Coming in at no. 3 is the Polish goal-machine, Robert Lewandowski, with 695 goals in 981 matches. He swiftly became his nation's all-time top scorer with the kind of positioning skills and consistency he has.
He made his international debut in 2008 and became one of the most celebrated Polish footballers of this century. He won two Bundesliga titles at Borussia Dortmund and later moved to Bayern Munich, where he cemented his status as one of the greatest strikers.
Lewandowski holds astonishing goal-scoring records, such as surpassing Gerd Muller's record for most goals in a single Bundesliga season (41 goals in 2020-21) and became the tournament's leading foreign scorer.
He also won two consecutive European Golden Shoes and 2 FIFA Best Men's Player awards.
Messi kissing the World Cup after their victory over France in 2022. Image | Mint
Goals: 886
Matches: 1108
Position: Forward
Probably the most anticipated name on the list, Argentina's golden boy, Lionel Messi, holds the 2nd position with a staggering 866 goals in 1108 matches. Having made his international debut in 2005, he had a career full of greatness, which shaped the modern era of football.
From Copa America glory to the 2022 World Cup triumph, which made the dreams of millions come true, there is not a single title left for him to fill his cabinet. He spent the majority of his career at the club level at Barcelona, becoming their all-time leading scorer.
Messi's unimaginable dribbling and scoring prowess earned him eight Ballon d'Or awards (which is the most by any player) and six European Golden Shoes. He also holds the record for most goals in a calendar year (91 in 2012).
It is really difficult to put the legacy of the greatest of all time into words and summarise in a couple of paragraphs!
Crowning the list as the highest scoring footballer in the 21st century is Portugal's indomitable Cristiano Ronaldo with 938 goals in 1281 matches. Following his debut in 2003, he was unstoppable and reached heights with his scoring talent.
He led Portugal to their first major international title (UEFA European Championship) in 2016 and followed it with the Nations League in 2019 and 2025. At club level, he won multiple titles with Manchester United, and later moved to Real Madrid, where he became the leading scorer.
Ronaldo's hunger for goals saw him achieve five Ballon d'Or awards and four European Golden Shoes.
His fitness and dedication to this game help him maintain an elite level of goal scoring in his late 30s, making him one of the greatest in the history of this sport.
Fabian Ruiz takes his chance with a left-footed effort from the outside of the box.
It was bit akward for Costa. But, he made a good save going down to his left.
Jun 8, 2025, 8:15 PM
54' | Mendes is a beast
Nuno Mendes has been clinical against Yamal so far. He has won all the battles against the wonderkid. Portugal dominating, but Spain are looking relaxed.
Neto was looking for Ronaldo with the lobbed cross, but Spain defenders had cut the angle for him. The cross went over the goal
Jun 8, 2025, 7:34 PM
33' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Ruiz for fouling Pedro Neto, to stop Portugal's counterattack.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:30 PM
29' | Chance for Nico
Yamal again picked out Nico inside the box with a lobbed ball. But with Costa coming in, Nico could not be on target with the defection.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:28 PM
VAR check
A VAR check was done to check if Ronaldo was offside, leading to the goal. Goal given.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:28 PM
26' | MMMMMEEEENNNNNNNNNDESSSSS | POR 1-1 ESP
Nuno Mendes equalises for Portugal.
A quick one and two, and Nuno Mendes, with the space given at the left of the box, struck powerfully to score his first-ever International goal.
Portugal 1-1 Spain.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:26 PM
25' | Excellent from Dias
Cucurella found Nico on the left. As Nico was making an entry inside the box, Dias won the physical battle and won the goal kick for Portugal as well.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:24 PM
21' | ZZUUUUUUUBBIIIIIMMMEEENDDDIIII | POR 0-1 ESP
Martin Zubimendi scores for Spain.
Yamal's lobbed ball for Nico was not cleared well by Portugal defenders and Costa. Zubimendi, at the right place at the right time, just tapped the ball inside the goal for Spain's first.
Portugal 0-1 Spain
Jun 8, 2025, 7:22 PM
Yamal shows his trick as well
Jun 8, 2025, 7:21 PM
The master showing how it is done!
Jun 8, 2025, 7:20 PM
19' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Inácio for an elbow on Oyarzabal.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:18 PM
17' | So close
Yamal's cross pass found Nico on the left. Nico made a quick cut back before going for the goal with a curling right-footed shot.
But the ball did not curl enough for him to give Spain the lead.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:18 PM
17' | So close
Yamal's cross pass found Nico on the left. Nico made a quick cut back before going for the goal with a curling right-footed shot.
But the ball did not curl enough for him to give Spain the lead.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:16 PM
15' | He should have scored
Nico with an accurate cut-back pass, Pedri, running at it, missed the goal with the effort.
Hue miss.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:14 PM
14' | Yamal misses the tager
Pedri left it for the 17-year-old to go for the goal with the free-kick. His kick went over the goal.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:13 PM
13' | Yamal is here
As I was saying, Yamal runs through Silva and Mendes, Silva stopped him, he won the ball again and won a free-kick from the edge of the box as Bruno fouled him.
Jun 8, 2025, 7:11 PM
10' | Patience game
Both teams are waiting for the mistake from other team.
Mendes tried to stitch an attack for Portugal, while Nico and Fermin looked to build up for Spain.
Starting XI: Unai Simón, Robin Le Normand, Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, Dean Huijsen, Óscar Mingueza, Martín Zubimendi, Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Mikel Oyarzabal, Marc Cucurella.
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Dani Vivian, Mikel Merino, Álvaro Morata, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Yéremy Pino, Álex Baena, Alejandro Grimaldo, Isco, Fermín López, Samuel Omorodion.
Jun 8, 2025, 5:55 PM
Lineups | Portugal
Lineups: Diogo Costa; João Neves, Rúben Dias, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes; Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes; Francisco Conceição, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.
Subs: José Sá, Rui Silva, Diogo Dalot, Renato Veiga, António Silva, Nélson Semedo, Rodrigo Mora, João Palhinha, Rafael Leão, Rúben Neves, Gonçalo Ramos, Francisco Trincão, Diogo Jota, João Félix, Pedro Gonçalves.
05/09/24: Portugal 2-1 Croatia 08/09/24: Portugal 2-1 Scotland 12/10/24: Poland 1-3 Portugal 15/10/24: Scotland 0-0 Portugal 15/11/24: Portugal 5-1 Poland 18/11/24: Croatia 1-1 Portugal 20/03/25: Denmark 1-0 Portugal 23/03/25: Portugal 5-2 Denmark (agg: 5-3, aet) 04/06/25: Germany 1-2 Portugal
Jun 8, 2025, 5:04 PM
Portugal vs Spain: Head-to-head stats
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
Spain
18
6
40
47
Portugal
16
6
40
81
Jun 8, 2025, 5:04 PM
Tonight's Venue | Munich Football arena
Jun 8, 2025, 5:02 PM
How to watch the match?
Indian fans can watch the Portugal vs Spain, UEFA Nations League 2025 final match on Sony Sports Network channels on television. Moreover, they can also enjoy the match LIVE on Sony LIV with a paid subscription. The match will also be streamed LIVE on Jio TV.
Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final highlights: Five-star Spain beat France 5-4 in a record-breaking Nations League classic, to meet Portugal in final
Get the highlights of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final as Spain defeated France by 5-4 to set a date with Portugal in the final. Lamine Yamal scored a brace for Spain.
Hello and welcome to our LIVE coverage of the UEFA Nations League semi-final match between Spain and France in Germany tonight.
Spain are looking to become the first team to retain the Nations League since the tournament was introduced in 2018. Meanwhile, the 2021 winners, France, are also looking to win their first Nations League title since then.
This is Koushik Biswas, who will bring you all the updates of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final. Stay tuned and enjoy the coverage.
LIVE Updates
Jun 5, 2025, 6:59 PM
Final Score
Jun 5, 2025, 9:10 PM
Portugal vs Spain in final!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:08 PM
The highest scoring match in Nations League history!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:06 PM
That is how good it was!
⏱️ Spain 1-0 France (22') ⏱️ Spain 2-0 France (25') ⏱️ Spain 3-0 France (54') ⏱️ Spain 4-0 France (55') ⏱️ Spain 4-1 France (59') ⏱️ Spain 5-1 France (67') ⏱️ Spain 5-2 France (79') ⏱️ Spain 5-3 France (84') ⏱️ Spain 5-4 France (90'+3)
Simon does well to go low and down to his right to save Dembele's on target shot from the right.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:37 PM
36' | Lenglet blocks a shot
France are struggling here with the defence.
Pedri's delivery had created a chance for Nico to go for the goal. But, Lenglet was there to make the block.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
33' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Lamine for a foul on Doue.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
31' | Chance for France
Doue and Mbappe's timid efforts at the goal were saved by Simon as France looked to make a comeback in the match. Let me remind you, no second leg in the semis. The winner will face Portugal in the final on June 8th.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:28 PM
The second one!
⚡GOAL: MIKEL MERINO DOUBLES THE LEAD FOR SPAIN!!!!!!!!!
26' | Meeeeeeeeerrrriiiiiiiinnnnnoooooo | ESP 2-0 FRA
Merino's goes around the corner and Spain lead by 2-0.
Oyarzabal is again the provider but this time with a very different type of assist, completing a one-two with Merino as part of a slick spell of Spain passing with a delightful chipped ball inside the box on the right.
Merino did the rest by storming inside the box and beating Maignan in the near post.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:24 PM
22' | NICCCCCCCOOOOOOOOOOOO | ESP 1- 0 FRA
Nico Williams does the job for Spain.
On the left again, but unlike the last two times, he was able to smash the back of the net.
Yamal found Oyarzabal, and the experienced striker played a cute pass at the edge of the box for Nico to go for the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:21 PM
20' | Rabiot takes his chance
Despite space being there and having Mbappe waiting over the shoulder, Rabiot went for the shot.
It went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:20 PM
18' | Save from Maignan
It is Nico Williams who made another run on the left for Spain. But his final shot was saved by Maignan. A bit awkward, but it was a good save.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:19 PM
17' | Save from Simon
Theo passed the ball to Doue on the left. Doue, full of confidence, after a record-breaking Champions League final, he made a cutback and went for a shot with his right foot.
Theo Hernandez, though he was not in full control while making the effort with his left foot, hit the crossbar. Simon would have been a spectator if that had gone in.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:12 PM
Two of the best young players in the world in action
Jun 5, 2025, 7:09 PM
8' | Easy save for Maignan
Nico Williams, on the left-hand side, made a good run. But his final effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:08 PM
7' | Chance for France
Demeble ran away with the ball and found Mbappe. But, unselfish Mbappe tried to find Rabiot and lost the plot.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:05 PM
4' | Theo takes his chance
Theo Hernandez took his chance to surprise Simon with a long-range shot. The shot went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:04 PM
3' | Yamal with the first attack
As usual, Lamine Yamal looked to break through the right and then with a backheel found Pedro Porro, whose effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:01 PM
Kick-off!
France start things off!
Jun 5, 2025, 6:51 PM
They are ready too!
Calentamiento completado, los chicos a vestuarios.
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 5, 2025
Jun 5, 2025, 6:04 PM
Lineups | France
France Starting XI (4-2-3-1): M. Maignan, P. Kalulu, I. Konaté, C. Lenglet, T. Hernández, M. Koné, A. Rabiot, O. Dembélé, M. Olise, D. Doué, K. Mbappé (c)
Substitutes: Brice Samba, Lucas Chevalier, Lucas Hernández, Malo Gusto, Benjamin Pavard, Lucas Digne, Loïc Badé, Rayan Cherki, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Mattéo Guendouzi, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bradley Barcola, Randal Kolo Muani, Marcus Thuram
Jun 5, 2025, 6:01 PM
Lineups | Spain
Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simón (c); Pedro Porro, Robin Le Normand, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Pau Cubarsí, Daniel Vivian, Fabián Ruiz, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Óscar Mingueza, Yéremy Pino, Alejandro Baena, Alejandro Grimaldo, Isco, Fermín López, Álvaro Morata, Samuel Aghehowa
France will miss the trio of Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Team News: Spain
Luis de la Fuente's side will be without the current Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is still undergoing his recovery at Manchester City. Along with Rodri, Spain will also miss the services of Ferran Torres, who underwent surgery for appendicitis.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Spain vs France: Head-to-head stats
Till now, Spain and France have played 37 games against each other, including friendlies.
Spain have won 7 times while France have dominated with 13 wins. 17 games have ended in draws.
France, in those 37 games, have scored 66 goals, while Spain scored 40 goals.
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
France
13
17
37
66
Spain
7
17
37
40
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs France UEFA Nations League 2024-25 semi-final match on Sony Sports Network TV Channel. They can also watch the match live on the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Jio TV will also stream the match.
Jun 5, 2025, 4:50 PM
Match details
Match:Spain vs France
Tournament:UEFA Nations League 2024-25, semi-final.