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Happy Birthday Neymar: Career highlights of the Brazilian football star

As Brazilian football star Neymar Jr celebrates his 33rd birthday today, he present you the career-highlights of the former Barcelona star so far in his career.

Feb 5, 2025, 10:22 AM3 min read

Neymar Jr., the top scorer for Brazil in international football is celebrating his 33rd birthday today. The Brazilian star made a grand return to his boyhood club Santos recently and will continue to showcase his magic on the field for the fans.

On his birthday, here are all the achievements of Neymar Jr. so far in his career - 

Neymar Jr. Career Achievements Summary

Individual Awards 

  • 2× South American Footballer of the Year (2011, 2012)
  • 1× FIFA Puskás Award (2011)
  • 1× Footballer of the Year (Brazil) (2011)
  • 2× Player of the Tournament (Copa América 2021, Confederations Cup 2013)
  • 2× League Player of the Year (2018, PSG)
  • 4× Top Goal Scorer
    • UEFA Champions League (2014/15) – 10 goals
    • Copa del Rey (2014/15) – 7 goals
    • Copa Libertadores (2011/12) – 8 goals
    • Copa do Brasil (2009/10) – 11 goals

Read Also | From Santos to the World: Neymar's Journey is football's greatest "Could Have Been"

Club Titles 

  • 1× UEFA Champions League Winner (2014/15, FC Barcelona)
  • 1× UEFA Champions League Runner-Up (2019/20, PSG)
  • 1× UEFA Super Cup Winner (2015/16, FC Barcelona)
  • 1× FIFA Club World Cup Winner (2016, FC Barcelona)
  • 1× Copa Libertadores Winner (2010/11, Santos FC)
  • 1× Recopa Sudamericana Winner (2011/12, Santos FC)
  • 1× Brazilian Cup Winner (2010, Santos FC)
  • 1× Saudi Arabian Champion (2023/24, Al-Hilal SFC)

Domestic League Titles 

  • 5× French Champion (2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20, 2021/22, 2022/23 – PSG)
  • 2× Spanish Champion (2014/15, 2015/16 – FC Barcelona)

Domestic Cup Titles 

  • 3× Spanish Cup Winner (2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17 – FC Barcelona)
  • 3× French Cup Winner (2017/18, 2019/20, 2020/21 – PSG)
  • 2× French League Cup Winner (2017/18, 2019/20 – PSG)
  • 4× French Super Cup Winner (2018/19, 2019/20, 2020/21, 2022/23 – PSG)
  • 1× Spanish Super Cup Winner (2013/14 – FC Barcelona)

International Achievements 

  • 1× Confederations Cup Winner (2013, Brazil)
  • 1× Copa América Runner-Up (2021, Brazil)
  • 3× FIFA World Cup Participant (2014, 2018, 2022 – Brazil)
  • 2× Copa América Participant (2011, 2015 – Brazil)
  • 2× Olympics Participant (2011/12, 2015/16 – Brazil Olympic Team)
  • 1× Olympic Gold Medalist (2016, Brazil Olympic Team)
  • 1× Olympic Silver Medalist (2012)
  • 1× U-20 South American Championship Winner (2011, Brazil U20)
  • 2× U-17 World Cup Participant (2009, 2010 – Brazil U17)

Champions League Participation 

  • 10× UEFA Champions League Participant (2013-2023, Barcelona & PSG)

FIFA Club World Cup Participation

  • 2× Participant (2012, 2016 – Santos & FC Barcelona)

Neymar Jr. stats 

Stats by Club

Club Appearances Goals Assists
Santos 225 136 64
Barcelona 186 105 76
Paris SG 173 118 77
Al-Hilal 7 1 3

National Team Career

# National Team Debut Appearances Goals
10 Brazil Aug 10, 2010 128 79
11 Brazil U20 Jan 18, 2011 7 9
11 Brazil U17 Oct 24, 2009 3 1
10 Brazil Olympic Team Jul 26, 2012 12 7

 

Next Article

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team

Teenage football star Lamine Yamal created his greatest football XI of all time, which had legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr. and four Spanish team greats.

Jul 22, 2025, 7:29 AM10 min read

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com

Lamine Yamal just created his greatest football XI of all time with Real Madrid and Barcelona legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The recently turned 18 year old teenage star has been one of the best footballers in the world currently from two seasons. 

The Spaniard had a Ballon d'Or 2025 worthy season with FC Barcelona as he helped the Catalan club regain La Liga and win a domestic treble. Not only that, he was super influential in Spain winning the Euro 2024 as he was named the best young player of the tournament.

The La Masia product has recently signed a groundbreaking contract with FC Barcelona till 2031. Moreover you will be wearing the famous No. 10 jersey of Lionel Messi from 2025-26 season. 

Yamal made an appearance on China Media Group's "Total Soccer" program and he was asked to create his greatest football XI of all-time. The youngster made an scintillating attack consisting Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentine great Lionel Messi. Not only that he had four Spain legends in his lineup as most of his XI players are from La Liga giants FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Read Also | 10 legendary Barcelona players to wear jersey no. 10

Lamine Yamal's Greatest Football XI

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com

Goalkeeper

Iker Casillas

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com
Image | UEFA Euro on X

With more than 400 clean sheets in his entire career Iker Casillas is one of the greatest goalkeepers of the modern football. The Spaniard was not only athletic but was brave in making decisions while pulling up some great saves for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team.

Read Also | 10 great goals scored by goalkeepers

Iker Casillas is the player with second most apperances for Los Blancos and led them to many titles in his career. Not only that as he was as much a key player for Spain as he led the La Roja to their first major trophy in 44 years when they won the Euro 2008. Casillas had only conecced two goals in that entire tournameent.

Casillas won 23 major trophies in his career which includes 3 UEFA Champions League, 2 European Championships, 5 La Liga titles, and a FIFA World Cup.

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Conceded Clean Sheets
Club Real Madrid 725 751 264
FC Porto 156 116 74
Real Madrid B 4 2 2
Club Career Total 885 869 340
International Total International Career 167 102 93
Total Career Club + International 1,052 971 433

Right-Back

Dani Alves

Greatest football XI of all-time: Dani Alves | sportzpoint.com
Image | FC Barcelona

43 career trophies, the second most in football history, trophies across Europe, 280 goal contributions as a right-back and countless brave tackles, Dani Alves is surely one of the greats of the game. 

Although the Brazilian ended his career with bitter sweet experiences and cotroveries, no one can deny his ceredbilty as a footballer. 

Alves won 43 trophies in career, which had 3 Champions Leagues with FC Barcelona and 9 League titles across three leagues along with one Olympic title with Brazil.

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Barcelona 408 22 105
Sevilla FC 249 16 38
São Paulo 95 9 14
Paris SG 73 8 17
Juventus 33 6 7
UNAM Pumas 13 0 5
EC Bahia 10 2 2
Club Career Total 881 63 188
International Total International Career 126 8 21
Total Career Club + International 1,007 71 209

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

Center-Backs

Gerard Pique & Sergio Ramos

Greatest football XI of all-time: Gerard Pique & Sergio Ramos | sportzpoint.com
The Independent

Here comes the two of the greatest center-backs of the modern era. Both defenders were part of the Golden generation of Spanish football where they won back-to-back three international trophies from 2008 to 2012. 

Pique, who won 39 trophies for FC Barcelona, Manchester United and Spain, had a stellar career as a defender. The FC Barcelona legend won four Champions League titles along with 9 La Liga titles, which makes him one of the most successful defenders of all-time.

Pique's stats
Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Barcelona 616 53 13
Real Zaragoza 28 3 -
Manchester United 23 2 1
Club Career Total 667 58 14
International Spain 102 5 2
Total Career Club + International 769 63 16

Meantime, Ramos who is one of highest scoring defenders in football history is known for his performances in clutch moments. Moreover, he was crucial for Real Madrid as a leader and defender while winning four Champions League for them.

Ramo's stats
Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Real Madrid 671 101 40
Sevilla FC 87 10 1
Paris SG 58 6 1
Monterrey 15 5 -
Club Career Total 831 122 42
International Spain 180 23 8
Total Career Club + International 1,011 145 50

Left-back 

Marcelo

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team - Marcelo | sportzpoint.com

Marcelo, the Brazilian defender is one of the most loved players of the modern era. Quoted by Cristiano Ronaldo as the one of the best players he has played with, the Real Madrid legend won 5 Champions League titles and 6 La Liga, all for the Los Blancos.

Marcelo played 546 games for Real Madrid while having 58 appearences for Brazil.

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Real Madrid 546 38 103
Fluminense 107 11 5
Olympiacos 10 3 -
Club Career Total 663 52 108
International Brazil 58 6 11
Total Career Club + International 721 58 119

Attacking mid-field

Zinedine Zidane

Greatest football XI of all-time: Zinedine Zidane | sportzpoint.com
Image | Football Espana

Now if we are talking about class, clutch moments, flair and midfield greatness, you will have to have Zinedine Zidane in your playing XI. Lamine Yamal thus had the French and Real Madrid great in his playing XI.

Zidane, the 1998 Ballon d'Or winner with Juventus, helped Franch win the 1998 FIFA World Cup. In total he won 16 major trophies in his career. 

Zidane formed a teriffic mid-field in that Galactico team in the mid 2000s with Luis Figo, Ronaldo Nazario, David Beckham and Roberto Carlos. His peformance in big moments influenced Yamal chose over Barcelona legends like Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets in his greatest football XI.

Zidane won only Champions League title, in which he scored in the final, against Bayer Leverkusen in 2002.

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Real Madrid 227 49 67
Juventus 212 31 50
G. Bordeaux 179 39 24
Cannes 71 6 -
Club Career Total 689 125 141
International France 108 31 29
Total Career Club + International 797 156 170

Read Also | Kylian Mbappe named all-time XI including Ronaldo, Messi, Ronaldinho & Neymar

Neymar Jr.

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com
Image | FC Barcelona on X

Probbaly the greatest showstopper of the modern football, Neymar Jr., formed one of the greatest trios of football alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. 

The Brazilian's dribbling skill had made him one of the biggest attackers in the world which made PSG sign him for a controversial record fee of £200m. Neymar scored the most goals for his country, Brazil while raking up goals for teams like FC Barcelona, PSG and Santos.

Read Also | MSN vs BBC: Rivalry of football's greatest trio in stats

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Santos 239 140 69
Barcelona 186 105 76
Paris SG 173 118 79
Al-Hilal 7 1 3
Club Career Total 605 364 227
International Brazil 128 79 59
Total Career Club + International 733 443 286

Lionel Messi

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com
Image | FC Barcelona

The greatest playmaker in football history, Lionel Messi was a no-brainer in Lamine Yamal's greatest football XI of all-time. With 46 trophies, Messi is the player with most trophies in football history. Moreover, the Agrentine is the player with most goal contributions in football history. 

The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner, just like Lamine Yamal himself, was a La Masia product. Not only that, he was the one who had early connection with Yamal, in a once-in-a-generation photos for UNESCO, where Messi was seen holding a toddler Lamine Yamal.

Messi, who has the record of most non-penalty goals in 21st century, scored the most goals for FC Barcelona and Argentina and surely will be there in everyone's all-time football XI. 

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Barcelona 778 672 303
Paris SG 75 32 35
Miami 68 58 26
Club Career Total 921 762 364
International Argentina 193 112 61
Total Career Club + International 1,114 874 425

Right Wing

Ronaldinho

Greatest football XI of all-time: Ronaldinho | sportzpoint.com
Image | FC Barcelona

Ronaldinho's presence on the right wing proves how much Lamine Yamal is influenced with Brazilian style of football. Ronaldinho, the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner was one of the most eye-catching footballers of his time. 

The former FC Barcelona legend had the flair, style and skill which made even the opponents appreciate him. 

However his off-field life shoretned his carrer, which could have become more legendary. He won 11 major trophies including one Champions League and one FIFA World Cup.

Read Also | Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Barcelona 207 94 69
AC Milan 95 26 29
Atlético-MG 85 28 30
Paris SG 77 25 19
Grêmio 72 27 9
Flamengo 72 28 17
Querétaro FC 29 8 8
Fluminense 9 0 0
Club Career Total 646 236 181
International Brazil 97 33 29
Total Career Club + International 743 269 210

Left Wing

Cristiano Ronaldo

Greatest football XI of all-time: Lamine Yamal keeps Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar in his team | sportzpoint.com
Image | sportico.com

The greatest goalscorer of the world with 938 goals and counting for his clubs and country combined, is a must in any World XI. Ronaldo, who started as a winger at Manchester United, became a goal scoring machine at Real Madrid. 

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has won 36 major trophies in his career, including 5 Champions League titles and one European Championships.

Ronaldo's pace, agression, and will to score goal is an asset for any team and looks like Yamal knows that too.

Level Team / Category Appearances Goals Assists
Club Real Madrid 438 450 131
Manchester United 346 145 64
Juventus 134 101 22
Al-Nassr 105 93 19
Sporting CP 31 5 6
Club Career Total 1,060 800 242
International Portugal 221 138 45
International Career Total 221 138
Total Career 1,275 938 287

Striker

Ronaldo Nazario

Greatest football XI of all-time: Ronaldo Nazario | sportzpoint.com
Image | FC Barcelona

Now, here is the ultimate striker. The finishing skill, goal scoring ability, flair, agression, shooting and the ball control - all of these makes Ronaldo Nazario the ultimate striker. 

The two-time Ballon d'Or winner is the youngest winner of the award, when he won it in 1997 while playing for Inter Milan, after a successful 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Read Also | The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario: Check out the team

Ronaldo won 18 major trophies in his career and is the only player on this list two have played for both Ral Madrid and FC Barcelona. However, he is the only player not to win the Champions League which he has compensted by winning two FIFA World Cup titles.

Next Article

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored the most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century. Here are the top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century.

Jul 20, 2025, 3:13 PM31 min read

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com

Hat tricks are one of the toughest and most exciting things in football. To score thrice in a single match is not only hard but also one of the rarest things as well. However, some players have made it look so easy.

Today, in this article, we will talk about the top ten players with most hat tricks in football in the 21st century.

But before that, let me answer the question that you have in your mind. I know that you want to know who has scored the most hat-tricks in football history.

Who has scored the most hat-tricks in football history?

Now that's a very tricky question to answer because there is a lack of proof with the data of football score lines from the past.

As per Guinness World Records, the Brazilian legend Pele has scored the most hat-tricks in football history. The former striker scored as many as 92 hat tricks in his career, with seven of them being for Brazil. However, since Pele never played in Europe, there is no exact data or proof to support the answer. Most of Pele's hat-tricks came in unofficial and friendlies as well.

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century

Now, to list the top ten players with most hat tricks in football in the 21st century, there will be no confusion, because we have the proof and the data to support our list. This data not only validates but also proves why keeping the record of every football stat is important.

With this list, you will know how the 21st century has been dominated by two of the greatest footballers in history.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have scored twice as many hat tricks as the 3rd player on the list has achieved.

Here is the full list of the top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century.

12. Sergio Aguero | 18 hat-tricks

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Sergio Aguero - 18 | sportzpoint.com
Aguero has scored a record 12 Premier League hat-tricks. Image | mancity.com

The former Manchester City and Argentina legend is one of the greatest strikers of this century. Sergio Aguero finished his career as one of the highest scorers in Premier League history with 180 goals for Manchester City in the league.

With 18 hat tricks to his name, including his club and international career, Aguero is the player with the 12th most hat-tricks in the 21st century.

Not surprisingly, twelve of his 18 hat tricks came for Manchester City, most in the Premier League. However, Aguero only scored one hat-trick for Argentina in his international career.

The former striker scored more than four goals three times in his career, all in the Premier League. 

Competition Club Date Match Goals
LaLiga Atlético de Madrid May 21, 2011 RCD Mallorca 3–4 Atlético de Madrid 3
Premier League Manchester City Sep 10, 2011 Man City 3–0 Wigan Athletic 3
FA Cup Manchester City Jan 25, 2014 Man City 4–2 Watford FC 3
Premier League Manchester City Oct 18, 2014 Man City 4–1 Tottenham Hotspur 4
UEFA Champions League Manchester City Nov 25, 2014 Man City 3–2 Bayern Munich 3
Premier League Manchester City May 10, 2015 Man City 6–0 Queens Park Rangers 3
International Friendlies Argentina Jun 7, 2015 Argentina 5–0 Bolivia 3
Premier League Manchester City Oct 3, 2015 Man City 6–1 Newcastle United 5
Premier League Manchester City Apr 16, 2016 Chelsea FC 0–3 Man City 3
UEFA Champions League Qualifying Manchester City Aug 16, 2016 Steaua Bucharest 0–5 Man City 3
UEFA Champions League Manchester City Sep 14, 2016 Man City 4–0 Borussia Mönchengladbach 3
Premier League Manchester City Sep 16, 2017 Watford FC 0–6 Man City 3
Premier League Manchester City Jan 20, 2018 Man City 3–1 Newcastle United 3
Premier League Manchester City Feb 10, 2018 Man City 5–1 Leicester City 4
Premier League Manchester City Aug 19, 2018 Man City 6–1 Huddersfield Town 3
Premier League Manchester City Feb 3, 2019 Man City 3–1 Arsenal FC 3
Premier League Manchester City Feb 10, 2019 Man City 6–0 Chelsea FC 3
Premier League Manchester City Jan 12, 2020 Aston Villa 1–6 Man City 3

11. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar | 18

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Klaas-Jan Huntelaar - 18 | sportzpoint.com
 Huntelaar scored 8 hat-tricks for Schalke. Image | uefa.com

Now, this name can come as a surprise to many Gen-Z football followers. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, the former Dutch and Ajax centre-forward, scored 18 hat-tricks in his stunning football career.

Although three of his 18 hat-tricks came in the second division of the Dutch League, they are considered official hat-tricks.

Huntelaar scored seven hat-tricks for Ajax and eight for German club FC Schalke. He could only score one international hat-trick for the Netherlands.

Huntelaar scored 366 goals in his career and also featured for clubs like Real Madrid and AC Milan.

Competition Club Date Match Goals
Keuken Kampioen Divisie AGOVV Apeldoorn Aug 22, 2003 Heracles Almelo 2–4 AGOVV Apeldoorn 3
Keuken Kampioen Divisie AGOVV Apeldoorn Sep 19, 2003 AGOVV Apeldoorn 4–2 BV Veendam 3
Keuken Kampioen Divisie AGOVV Apeldoorn Apr 12, 2004 AGOVV Apeldoorn 5–2 HFC Haarlem 3
Eredivisie SC Heerenveen Apr 22, 2005 SC Heerenveen 7–1 RBC Roosendaal 3
Eredivisie SC Heerenveen Oct 15, 2005 NAC Breda 0–3 SC Heerenveen 3
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Feb 19, 2006 Ajax 6–0 RBC Roosendaal 4
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Mar 5, 2006 Ajax 6–0 Sparta Rotterdam 3
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Dec 17, 2006 SBV Excelsior 1–3 Ajax 3
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Mar 11, 2007 Twente Enschede 1–4 Ajax 3
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Aug 19, 2007 De Graafschap 1–8 Ajax 4
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Apr 6, 2008 Ajax 4–1 De Graafschap 3
European Qualifiers Netherlands Sep 3, 2010 San Marino 0–5 Netherlands 3
DFB-Pokal FC Schalke 04 Jul 31, 2011 FC Teningen 1–11 Schalke 4
Bundesliga FC Schalke 04 Aug 13, 2011 Schalke 5–1 1.FC Köln 3
Europa League Qualifying FC Schalke 04 Aug 25, 2011 Schalke 6–1 HJK Helsinki 4
UEFA Europa League FC Schalke 04 Feb 23, 2012 Schalke 3–1 AET Viktoria Plzen 3
UEFA Europa League FC Schalke 04 Mar 15, 2012 Schalke 4–1 Twente Enschede 3
Bundesliga FC Schalke 04 Apr 28, 2013 Schalke 4–1 Hamburger SV 3
Bundesliga FC Schalke 04 Mar 8, 2014 Schalke 4–0 Hoffenheim 3
Bundesliga FC Schalke 04 Nov 29, 2014 Schalke 4–1 Mainz 05 3
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Apr 13, 2019 Ajax 6–2 Excelsior 3

Read Also | European treble winners in men's football history

#10. Mario Gomez | 18

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Mario Gomez - 18 | sportzpoint.com
Gomez after scoring his 11th Bundesliga hat-trick. Image | uefa.com

The former German striker is one of the most underrated players of his generation. Over his entire career, Mario Gomez scored 333 goals in 610 games for teams like FC Bayern Munich, VfB Stuttgart and Fiorentina.

The one-time Champions League and three-time Bundesliga winner scored 18 hat-tricks in his career.

12 of his hat-tricks came for FC Bayern Munich, while four came for Stuttgart and one each for Wolfsburg and Germany.

Competition Club Date Match Goals
1.Bundesliga VfB Stuttgart Mar 8, 2008 VfB Stuttgart 6–3 Werder Bremen 3
DFB-Pokal VfB Stuttgart Jan 30, 2008 Werder Bremen II 2–3 VfB Stuttgart 3
1.Bundesliga VfB Stuttgart Apr 18, 2009 1.FC Köln 0–3 VfB Stuttgart 3
1.Bundesliga VfB Stuttgart May 9, 2009 VfB Stuttgart 4–1 Wolfsburg 4
International Friendlies Germany Jun 2, 2009 UAE 2–7 Germany 4
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Dec 19, 2010 VfB Stuttgart 3–5 Bayern Munich 3
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Nov 3, 2010 CFR Cluj 0–4 Bayern Munich 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Oct 16, 2010 Bayern Munich 3–0 Hannover 96 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Jan 22, 2011 Bayern Munich 5–1 Kaiserslautern 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Apr 17, 2011 Bayern Munich 5–1 Leverkusen 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich May 7, 2011 St. Pauli 1–8 Bayern Munich 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Aug 27, 2011 Kaiserslautern 0–3 Bayern Munich 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Sep 10, 2011 Bayern Munich 7–0 SC Freiburg 4
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Nov 2, 2011 Bayern Munich 3–2 Napoli 3
1.Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 10, 2012 Bayern Munich 7–1 Hoffenheim 3
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Mar 13, 2012 Bayern Munich 7–0 Basel 4
DFB-Pokal Bayern Munich Apr 16, 2013 Bayern Munich 6–1 Wolfsburg 3
1.Bundesliga VfL Wolfsburg Apr 2, 2017 Leverkusen 3–3 Wolfsburg 3

#9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic | 20

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Zlatan Ibrahimovic - 20 | sportzpoint.com
Ibra scored 10 hat-tricks for PSG. Image | PSG on X.

One of the most acrobatic and threatening strikers of the modern era, Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of the highest scorers of the 21st century.

The Swedish legend is perhaps one of the greatest players to never win the UEFA Champions League despite playing for teams like FC Barcelona, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Manchester United, PSG and Juventus.

Read Also | Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever

Zlatan scored 20 hat-tricks in his career, among which half were for PSG. He scored four hat-tricks for his country, Sweden.

Competition Club Date Match Goals Assists Minutes
World Cup qualification Europe Sweden Sep 4, 2004 Malta 0–7 Sweden 4 90'
Serie A Juventus FC Apr 17, 2005 Juventus 5–2 Lecce 3 90'
European Qualifiers Sweden Jun 7, 2011 Sweden 5–0 Finland 3 1 66'
International Friendlies Sweden Nov 14, 2012 Sweden 4–2 England 4 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Dec 11, 2012 Valenciennes 0–4 PSG 3 90'
UEFA Champions League Paris Saint-Germain Oct 23, 2013 Anderlecht 0–5 PSG 4 90'
International Friendlies Sweden Aug 14, 2013 Sweden 4–2 Norway 3 90'
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Jan 8, 2014 Brest 2–5 PSG 3 1 63'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Feb 23, 2014 Toulouse 2–4 PSG 3 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Aug 31, 2014 PSG 5–0 AS Saint-Étienne 3 73'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Mar 20, 2015 PSG 3–1 Lorient 3 1 90'
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Apr 8, 2015 PSG 4–1 AS Saint-Étienne 3 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Mar 13, 2016 Troyes 0–9 PSG 4 1 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Apr 2, 2016 PSG 4–1 Nice 3 90'
UEFA Europa League Manchester United Feb 16, 2017 Man Utd 3–0 AS Saint-Étienne 3 1 90'
Major League Soccer LA Galaxy Jul 30, 2018 LA Galaxy 4–3 Orlando City 3 1 90'
Major League Soccer LA Galaxy Jul 20, 2019 LA Galaxy 3–2 Los Angeles FC 3 90'
Major League Soccer LA Galaxy Sep 16, 2019 LA Galaxy 7–2 Sporting Kansas City 3 90

#8 Neymar | 21

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Neymar - 21 | sportzpoint.com
Neymar scored four hat-tricks for Barcelona. Image | fcbarcelona.com

The Brazilian modern-day great, Neymar, is one of the most loved and eye-catching footballers of the 21st century. Neymar is Brazil's highest goal scorer ever, with 79 goals in 120 matches.

The attacking midfielder made his name with Brazilian club Santos and then went on to conquer Europe with FC Barcelona and PSG before joining Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Four of his 21 hat tricks came for Brazil, which is the second most for the five-time world champion nation. He scored four hat tricks each for FC Barcelona and PSG, while scoring eight hat tricks for his home club, Santos. 

Competition Club Date Match Goals Assists Minutes
Campeonato Paulista Santos FC Feb 10, 2012 Botafogo FC 1–4 Santos FC 3 90'
Copa Libertadores Santos FC Mar 7, 2012 Santos FC 3–1 Internacional 3 90'
Campeonato Paulista Santos FC Mar 30, 2012 Santos FC 5–0 Guaratinguetá 3 90'
Campeonato Paulista (Fase final) Santos FC Apr 29, 2012 São Paulo FC 1–3 Santos FC 3 90'
International Friendlies Brazil Sep 11, 2012 Brazil 8–0 China 3 72'
UEFA Champions League FC Barcelona Dec 11, 2013 Barcelona 6–1 Celtic 3 1 81'
International Friendlies Brazil Mar 5, 2014 South Africa 0–5 Brazil 3 90'
International Friendlies Brazil Oct 14, 2014 Brazil 4–0 Japan 4 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Sep 27, 2014 Barcelona 6–0 Granada 3 90'
Copa do Brasil Santos FC Apr 15, 2010 Santos FC 8–1 Guarani 5 90'
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Santos FC Nov 21, 2010 Goiás EC 1–4 Santos FC 3 2 90'
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Santos FC Oct 29, 2011 Santos FC 4–1 Atlético Paranaense 4 1 90'
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Santos FC Nov 3, 2012 Cruzeiro 0–4 Santos FC 3 1 90'
Campeonato Paulista Santos FC Apr 13, 2013 União Barbarense 0–4 Santos FC 4 90'
UEFA Champions League Paris Saint-Germain Oct 3, 2018 PSG 6–1 Red Star Belgrade 3 82'
UEFA Champions League Paris Saint-Germain Dec 9, 2020 PSG 5–1 Başakşehir 3 1 90'
World Cup Qual. South America Brazil Oct 14, 2020 Peru 2–4 Brazil 3 2 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Jan 17, 2018 PSG 8–0 Dijon 4 2 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona May 14, 2017 Las Palmas 1–4 Barcelona 3 1 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Oct 17, 2015 Barcelona 5–2 Rayo Vallecano 4 3 90'
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Apr 9, 2022 Clermont 1–6 PSG 3 1 90'

#7 Kylian Mbappe | 22

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Kylian Mbappe - 22 | sportzpoint.com
Mbappe till now has scored 3 hat-tricks for Real Madrid. Image | Real Madrid on X

Now here comes the new generation superstar. Kylian Mbappe has already broken multiple football records in his short career for AS Monaco, PSG, Real Madrid and France.

One of the youngest goal scorers in FIFA World Cup history and one of the youngest ever to score in a World Cup final, Kylian Mbappe is indeed made for greatness.

Read Also | Most Valuable Football Players In 2025: Who is Worth the Big Bucks?

Mbappe has already scored 22 hat-tricks in his career, which include one in the famous FIFA World Cup 2022 final as well. The youngster, who is often compared with Cristiano Ronaldo, has scored 14 hat-tricks for PSG and three for France. The rest came for AS Monaco (2) and Real Madrid (3).

Competition Club Date Match Goals
Coupe de la Ligue AS Monaco Dec 14, 2016 AS Monaco 7–0 Stade Rennais FC 3
Ligue 1 AS Monaco Feb 11, 2017 AS Monaco 5–0 FC Metz 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Oct 7, 2018 PSG 5–0 Olympique Lyon 4
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Jan 19, 2019 PSG 9–0 EA Guingamp 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Apr 21, 2019 PSG 3–1 AS Monaco 3
UEFA Champions League Paris Saint-Germain Oct 22, 2019 Club Brugge 0–5 PSG 3
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Mar 4, 2020 Olympique Lyon 1–5 PSG 3
UEFA Champions League Paris Saint-Germain Feb 16, 2021 FC Barcelona 1–4 PSG 3
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Jan 3, 2022 Vannes OC 0–4 PSG 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain May 21, 2022 PSG 5–0 FC Metz 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Aug 21, 2022 Lille 1–7 PSG 3
World Cup 2022 France Dec 18, 2022 Argentina 7–5 pens France 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Apr 9, 2022 Clermont Foot 1–6 PSG 3
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Jan 23, 2023 Pays de Cassel 0–7 PSG 5
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Nov 11, 2023 Reims 0–3 PSG 3
European Qualifiers France Nov 18, 2023 France 14–0 Gibraltar 3
Coupe de France Paris Saint-Germain Jan 7, 2024 US Revel 0–9 PSG 3
Ligue 1 Paris Saint-Germain Mar 17, 2024 Montpellier 2–6 PSG 3
UEFA Champions League Real Madrid Feb 19, 2025 Real Madrid 3–1 Manchester City 3
LaLiga Real Madrid Jan 25, 2025 Real Valladolid 0–3 Real Madrid 3
LaLiga Real Madrid May 11, 2025 FC Barcelona 4–3 Real Madrid 3

#6 Erling Haaland | 25

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Erling Haaland - 25 - sportzpoint.com
In just two seasons, Haaland has already scored 8 Premier League hat-tricks. Image | premierleague.com

Norwegian Erling Haaland is a beast when it comes to scoring goals within the 'D box'. He would always see him at the right place at the right time, scoring some great acrobatic goals.

Haaland rose to fame with German club Borussia Dortmund and then unleashed his absolute best for Premier League club Manchester City. In his first season in the Premier League, he broke the record for the most goals in a season in the tournament (36).

In 329 matches, he has scored 24 hat-tricks and can only get better from here on. 11 of his hat-tricks came for Manchester City, among which 8 came in the Premier League, in only two seasons. 

Read Also | Football facts: Son-father footballer duo to play for national teams

Competition Club Date Match Goals
UEFA EURO U19 Qualifiers Norway U19 Mar 27, 2018 Scotland U19 4–5 Norway U19 3
Eliteserien Molde FK Jul 1, 2018 SK Brann 0–4 Molde FK 4
U-20 World Cup Norway U20 May 30, 2019 Norway U20 12–0 Honduras U20 9
ÖFB-Cup Red Bull Salzburg Jul 19, 2019 SC/ESV Parndorf 1–7 Salzburg 3
Bundesliga Red Bull Salzburg Aug 10, 2019 Salzburg 5–2 Wolfsberger AC 3
Bundesliga Red Bull Salzburg Sep 14, 2019 Salzburg 7–2 TSV Hartberg 3
UEFA Champions League Red Bull Salzburg Sep 17, 2019 Salzburg 6–2 KRC Genk 3
Bundesliga Red Bull Salzburg Nov 10, 2019 Wolfsberger AC 0–3 Salzburg 3
Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund Jan 18, 2020 Augsburg 3–5 Dortmund 3
UEFA Nations League B Norway Oct 11, 2020 Norway 4–0 Romania 3
Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund Nov 21, 2020 Hertha BSC 2–5 Dortmund 4
World Cup Qual. Europe Norway Sep 7, 2021 Norway 5–1 Gibraltar 3
DFB-Pokal Borussia Dortmund Aug 7, 2021 SV Wehen 0–3 Dortmund 3
Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund Apr 30, 2022 Dortmund 3–4 Bochum 3
Premier League Manchester City Aug 27, 2022 Man City 4–2 Crystal Palace 3
Premier League Manchester City Aug 31, 2022 Man City 6–0 Nottingham Forest 3
Premier League Manchester City Oct 2, 2022 Man City 6–3 Man United 3
Premier League Manchester City Jan 22, 2023 Man City 3–0 Wolves 3
FA Cup Manchester City Mar 18, 2023 Man City 6–0 Burnley 3
UEFA Champions League Manchester City Mar 14, 2023 Man City 7–0 RB Leipzig 5
Premier League Manchester City Sep 2, 2023 Man City 5–1 Fulham 3
FA Cup Manchester City Feb 27, 2024 Luton 2–6 Man City 5
Premier League Manchester City May 4, 2024 Man City 5–1 Wolves 4
International Friendlies Norway Jun 5, 2024 Norway 3–0 Kosovo 3
Premier League Manchester City Aug 24, 2024 Man City 4–1 Ipswich 3
Premier League Manchester City Aug 31, 2024 West Ham 1–3 Man City 3
UEFA Nations League B Norway Nov 17, 2024 Norway 5–0 Kazakhstan 3

#5 Harry Kane | 27

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Harry Kane - 27 | sportzpoint.com
Harry Kane has already scored 8 hat-tricks for FC Bayern Munich. Image | FCBayern on X

Harry Kane is the only English player on our list of the top 12 players with most hat tricks in football in 21st century. With 27 hat tricks in his career till now, Harry Kane is fifth on our list currently.

Read Also | Harry Kane becomes the fastest footballer to score 50 Bundesliga goals

The Tottenham Hotspur legend, who left Premier League with the second most goals in the competition's history, is now breaking records in the Bundesliga as well.

Kane scored 14 hat-tricks for Spurs and has already scored 8 hat-tricks for FC Bayern Munich in just two seasons.

Competition Club/National Team Date Match Goals Assists Minutes
UEFA Europa League Tottenham Hotspur Oct 23, 2014 Spurs 5–1 Asteras Tripolis 3 90'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Mar 21, 2015 Spurs 4–3 Leicester City 3 90'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Oct 25, 2015 Bournemouth 1–5 Spurs 3 85'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Jan 14, 2017 Spurs 4–0 West Brom 3 90'
FA Cup Tottenham Hotspur Feb 19, 2017 Fulham 0–3 Spurs 3 75'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Feb 26, 2017 Spurs 4–0 Stoke 3 1 86'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur May 18, 2017 Leicester 1–6 Spurs 4 1 90'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur May 21, 2017 Hull 1–7 Spurs 3 79'
UEFA Champions League Tottenham Hotspur Sep 26, 2017 APOEL 0–3 Spurs 3 75'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Dec 23, 2017 Burnley 0–3 Spurs 3 90'
Premier League Tottenham Hotspur Dec 26, 2017 Spurs 5–2 Southampton 3 90'
World Cup 2018 England Jun 24, 2018 England 6–1 Panama 3 1 63'
European Qualifiers England Sep 7, 2019 England 4–0 Bulgaria 3 1 77'
European Qualifiers England Nov 14, 2019 England 7–0 Montenegro 3 57'
UEFA Europa League Qual. Tottenham Hotspur Oct 1, 2020 Spurs 7–2 Maccabi Haifa 3 1 75'
UEFA Conference League Tottenham Hotspur Sep 30, 2021 Spurs 5–1 NS Mura 3 32'
World Cup Qualifiers England Nov 12, 2021 England 5–0 Albania 3 1 63'
World Cup Qualifiers England Nov 15, 2021 San Marino 0–10 England 4 63'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Sep 23, 2023 Bayern 7–0 Bochum 3 2 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Oct 28, 2023 Bayern 8–0 Darmstadt 3 1 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Nov 4, 2023 Dortmund 0–4 Bayern 3 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 9, 2024 Bayern 8–1 Mainz 3 1 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Sep 14, 2024 Holstein Kiel 1–6 Bayern 3 2 90'
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Sep 17, 2024 Bayern 9–2 Dinamo Zagreb 4 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Oct 19, 2024 Bayern 4–0 Stuttgart 3 90'
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Nov 22, 2024 Bayern 3–0 Augsburg 3 1 90'

Read Also | Last 10 European Golden Shoe winners List

#4 Luis Suarez | 30

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Luis Suarez - 30 hat-tricks | sportzpoint.com
Suarez scored 12 hat-tricks for FC Barcelona. Image | FC Barcelona on X.

Uruguayan legend Luis Suarez, who dominated European football first for Ajax and Liverpool and then for FC Barcelona, creating the famous M-S-N trio with Lionel Messi and Neymar, scored 30 hat-tricks in his career.

Suarez is currently playing for Inter Miami and has scored 505 goals so far in his career, among which 69 came for Uruguay. 

Twelve of his total 30 career hat-tricks came for FC Barcelona and 9 for Ajax during his early days.

Competition Club/National Team Date Match Goals Assists Minutes
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Mar 16, 2008 Ajax 4–1 Willem II 3 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Apr 12, 2009 Ajax 7–0 Willem II 3 1 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Aug 8, 2009 Ajax 4–1 RKC Waalwijk 3 90'
UEFA Europa League Qual. Ajax Amsterdam Aug 20, 2009 Ajax 5–0 Slovan Bratislava 4 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Sep 20, 2009 VVV-Venlo 0–4 Ajax 4 90'
KNVB Beker Ajax Amsterdam Dec 23, 2009 WHC Wezep 1–14 Ajax 6 2 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Feb 3, 2010 Ajax 4–0 Roda JC 4 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Apr 11, 2010 Ajax 7–0 VVV-Venlo 3 90'
Eredivisie Ajax Amsterdam Aug 29, 2010 De Graafschap 0–5 Ajax 3 90'
International Friendly Uruguay Oct 8, 2010 Indonesia 1–7 Uruguay 3 3 90'
World Cup Qualifiers Uruguay Nov 11, 2011 Uruguay 4–0 Chile 4 76'
Premier League Liverpool Apr 28, 2012 Norwich 0–3 Liverpool 3 85'
Premier League Liverpool Mar 2, 2013 Wigan 0–4 Liverpool 3 90'
Premier League Liverpool Oct 26, 2013 Liverpool 4–1 West Brom 3 89'
Premier League Liverpool Dec 4, 2013 Liverpool 5–1 Norwich 4 1 90'
FIFA Club World Cup FC Barcelona Dec 17, 2015 Barcelona 3–0 Guangzhou Evergrande 3 90'
Copa del Rey FC Barcelona Feb 3, 2016 Barcelona 7–0 Valencia 4 1 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Jan 17, 2016 Barcelona 6–0 Athletic Bilbao 3 2 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Feb 14, 2016 Barcelona 6–1 Celta Vigo 3 2 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Apr 20, 2016 Deportivo 0–8 Barcelona 4 3 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Apr 23, 2016 Barcelona 6–0 Sporting Gijón 4 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona May 14, 2016 Granada 0–3 Barcelona 3 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Aug 20, 2016 Barcelona 6–2 Real Betis 3 90'
Premier League Liverpool Mar 22, 2014 Cardiff 3–6 Liverpool 3 1 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona May 2, 2015 Córdoba 0–8 Barcelona 3 1 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Oct 25, 2015 Barcelona 3–1 Eibar 3 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Feb 24, 2018 Barcelona 6–1 Girona 3 2 90'
LaLiga FC Barcelona Oct 28, 2018 Barcelona 5–1 Real Madrid 3 90'
Grêmio Série A Grêmio Nov 10, 2023 Botafogo 3–4 Grêmio 3 83'
MLS Inter Miami May 5, 2024 Inter Miami 6–2 NY Red Bulls 3 1 84'

Read Also | MSN vs BBC: Rivalry of football's greatest trio in stats

#3 Robert Lewandowski | 34

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Luis Suarez - 34 | sportzpoint.com
Lewandowski has scored three hat-tricks for FC Barcelona. Image | FC Barcelona on X

If we do not count Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski of Poland has been the greatest footballer of this generation. It is harsh that he always gets compared to those two and has not recieve the appreciation he should get.

He was even unlucky not to win the 2020 Ballon d'Or, which was cancelled due to COVID-19. Apart from Messi and Cristiano, he is the only player to score over 100 Champions League goals.

Read Also | Highest scoring footballers of the 21st century

Lewandowski scored 34 hat-tricks in his career so far, and 20 of them came for FC Bayern Munich, where he won 8 Bundesliga and one Champions League titles. With 6 UCL hat-tricks, he is the player with the second most hat-tricks in the competition's history, only behind Lionel Messi. 

Competition Club/National Team Date Match Goals
Fortuna 1 Liga Znicz Pruszkow Sep 19, 2007 Znicz Pruszkow 4–2 GKS Jastrzebie 3
Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund Oct 1, 2011 Dortmund 4–0 Augsburg 3
DFB-Pokal Borussia Dortmund May 12, 2012 Dortmund 5–2 Bayern Munich 3
UEFA Champions League Borussia Dortmund Apr 24, 2013 Dortmund 4–1 Real Madrid 4
Bundesliga Borussia Dortmund Nov 1, 2013 Dortmund 6–1 Stuttgart 3
Euro Qualifiers Poland Sep 7, 2014 Gibraltar 0–7 Poland 4
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Sep 22, 2015 Bayern 5–1 Wolfsburg 5
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Sep 29, 2015 Bayern 5–0 Dinamo Zagreb 3
Euro Qualifiers Poland Jun 13, 2015 Poland 4–0 Georgia 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Aug 26, 2016 Bayern 6–0 Werder Bremen 3
DFB-Pokal Bayern Munich Aug 19, 2016 Carl Zeiss Jena 0–5 Bayern 3
World Cup Qualifiers Poland Oct 8, 2016 Poland 3–2 Denmark 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Feb 25, 2017 Bayern 8–0 Hamburg 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Apr 1, 2017 Bayern 6–0 Augsburg 3
World Cup Qualifiers Poland Jun 10, 2017 Poland 3–1 Romania 3
World Cup Qualifiers Poland Oct 5, 2017 Armenia 1–6 Poland 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 10, 2018 Bayern 6–0 Hamburg 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 31, 2018 Bayern 6–0 Dortmund 3
DFL-Supercup Bayern Munich Aug 12, 2018 Frankfurt 0–5 Bayern 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Aug 24, 2019 Schalke 0–3 Bayern 3
Euro Qualifiers Poland Oct 10, 2019 Latvia 0–3 Poland 3
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Nov 26, 2019 Red Star Belgrade 0–6 Bayern 4
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Oct 4, 2020 Bayern 4–3 Hertha BSC 4
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Oct 24, 2020 Bayern 5–0 Eintracht Frankfurt 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 6, 2021 Bayern 4–2 Dortmund 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Mar 20, 2021 Bayern 4–0 Stuttgart 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich May 8, 2021 Bayern 6–0 Gladbach 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Aug 28, 2021 Bayern 5–0 Hertha 3
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Nov 2, 2021 Bayern 5–2 Benfica 3
Bundesliga Bayern Munich Jan 15, 2022 Köln 0–4 Bayern 3
UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich Mar 8, 2022 Bayern 7–1 Salzburg 3
UEFA Champions League FC Barcelona Sep 7, 2022 Barcelona 5–1 Viktoria Plzen 3
LaLiga FC Barcelona Apr 29, 2024 Barcelona 4–2 Valencia 3
LaLiga FC Barcelona Oct 6, 2024 Alavés 0–3 Barcelona 3

#2 Lionel Messi | 59

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Lionel Messi - 59 | sportzpoint.com
Messi scored most non-penalty hat-tricks in football history.

Now you will have to bear with me a bit because the list will get bigger.

Lionel Messi, who has won the most trophies in football history, won the most Ballon d'Or awards, scored the second most four or more goals in football (8), and also has the record for most goal contributions in football history, scoring 59 hat-tricks in his career so far.

Messi also has the record of scoring the most La Liga (36) hat-tricks, which is more than other player's whole career.

The Argentine has scored 48 hat-tricks for FC Barcelona, which is also a record. Messi till now has scored 10 international hat-tricks, the most for Argentina and joint-most in international football history.

Moreover, out of Messi's 59 hat-tricks, only 12 included a penalty, which makes him the player with the most non-penalty hat-tricks as well. 

Date Team Opponent Score Competition Goals Pens
10/03/2007 Barcelona Real Madrid 3-3 La Liga 3 0
06/01/2009 Barcelona Atlético Madrid 3-1 Copa del Rey 3 1
10/01/2010 Barcelona Tenerife 5-0 La Liga 3 0
14/03/2010 Barcelona Valencia 3-0 La Liga 3 0
21/03/2010 Barcelona Real Zaragoza 4-2 La Liga 3 0
06/04/2010 Barcelona Arsenal 4-1 Champions League 4 0
21/08/2010 Barcelona Sevilla 4-0 Supercopa de España 3 0
20/11/2010 Barcelona Almería 8-0 La Liga 3 0
12/01/2011 Barcelona Real Betis 5-0 Copa del Rey 3 0
05/02/2011 Barcelona Atlético Madrid 3-0 La Liga 3 0
17/09/2011 Barcelona Osasuna 8-0 La Liga 3 0
24/09/2011 Barcelona Atlético Madrid 5-0 La Liga 3 0
29/10/2011 Barcelona Mallorca 5-0 La Liga 3 1
01/11/2011 Barcelona Viktoria Plzen 4-0 Champions League 3 1
22/01/2012 Barcelona Málaga 4-1 La Liga 3 0
19/02/2012 Barcelona Valencia 5-1 La Liga 4 0
29/02/2012 Argentina Switzerland 3-1 Friendly 3 1
07/03/2012 Barcelona Bayer Leverkusen 7-1 Champions League 5 0
20/03/2012 Barcelona Granada 5-3 La Liga 3 0
02/05/2012 Barcelona Málaga 4-1 La Liga 3 2
05/05/2012 Barcelona Espanyol 4-0 La Liga 4 2
09/06/2012 Argentina Brazil 4-3 Friendly 3 0
20/10/2012 Barcelona Deportivo La Coruña 5-4 La Liga 3 0
27/01/2013 Barcelona Osasuna 5-1 La Liga 4 1
15/06/2013 Argentina Guatemala 4-0 Friendly 3 1
01/09/2013 Barcelona Valencia 3-2 La Liga 3 0
18/09/2013 Barcelona Ajax 4-0 Champions League 3 0
16/03/2014 Barcelona Osasuna 7-0 La Liga 3 0
23/03/2014 Barcelona Real Madrid 4-3 La Liga 3 2
22/11/2014 Barcelona Sevilla 5-1 La Liga 3 0
25/11/2014 Barcelona APOEL 4-0 Champions League 3 0
07/12/2014 Barcelona Espanyol 5-1 La Liga 3 0
18/01/2015 Barcelona Deportivo La Coruña 4-0 La Liga 3 0
15/02/2015 Barcelona Levante 5-0 La Liga 3 1
08/03/2015 Barcelona Rayo Vallecano 6-1 La Liga 3 1
09/01/2016 Barcelona Granada 4-0 La Liga 3 0
03/02/2016 Barcelona Valencia 7-0 Copa del Rey 3 0
03/03/2016 Barcelona Rayo Vallecano 5-1 La Liga 3 0
11/06/2016 Argentina Panama 5-0 Copa América 3 0
13/09/2016 Barcelona Celtic 7-0 Champions League 3 0
19/10/2016 Barcelona Manchester City 4-0 Champions League 3 0
09/09/2017 Barcelona Espanyol 5-0 La Liga 3 0
19/09/2017 Barcelona Eibar 6-1 La Liga 4 1
11/10/2017 Argentina Ecuador 3-1 World Cup Qualifier 3 0
07/04/2018 Barcelona Leganés 3-1 La Liga 3 0
29/04/2018 Barcelona Deportivo La Coruña 4-2 La Liga 3 0
30/05/2018 Argentina Haiti 4-0 Friendly 3 1
18/09/2018 Barcelona PSV 4-0 Champions League 3 0
16/12/2018 Barcelona Levante 5-0 La Liga 3 0
23/02/2019 Barcelona Sevilla 4-2 La Liga 3 0
17/03/2019 Barcelona Real Betis 4-1 La Liga 3 0
09/11/2019 Barcelona Celta Vigo 4-1 La Liga 3 1
07/12/2019 Barcelona Mallorca 5-2 La Liga 3 0
22/02/2020 Barcelona Eibar 5-0 La Liga 4 0
10/09/2021 Argentina Bolivia 3-0 World Cup Qualifier 3 0
05/06/2022 Argentina Estonia 5-0 Friendly 5 1
28/03/2023 Argentina Curaçao 7-0 Friendly 3 0
15/10/2024 Argentina Bolivia 6-0 World Cup Qualifier 3 0
19/10/2024 Inter Miami New England 6-2 MLS 3 0

#1 Cristiano Ronaldo | 66

Top 12 players with most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century - Cristiano Ronaldo - 66 | sportzpoint.com
Ronaldo scored a record 44 hat-tricks for Real Madrid.

Here comes the greatest goal scorer in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend has scored the most hat-tricks in football in the 21st century. And, if you do not count the unverified record for Pele, he has the most hat-tricks in football history.

Most goals in club history, most goals in international football, most Champions League goals, joint-most Champions League hat-tricks (10), most league hat-tricks (45) - these are a few of the records set by the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star.

Ronaldo, till now, has scored 66 career hat-tricks, among which 44 came for Real Madrid, a record for the Los Blancos. Moreover, he has scored four or more goals in a game a record 11 times, scoring 4 goals in a game nine times and 5 goals twice.

However, compared with Lionel Messi, 29 of Ronaldo's 66 career hat-tricks included a penalty.

Date H/A/N Team Opponent Score Competition Goals Pens
12/01/2008 H Manchester United Newcastle United 6-0 Premier League 3 0
05/05/2010 A Real Madrid Mallorca 4-1 La Liga 3 0
03/03/2011 H Real Madrid Malaga 7-0 La Liga 3 1
07/05/2011 A Real Madrid Sevilla 6-2 La Liga 4 0
10/05/2011 H Real Madrid Getafe 4-0 La Liga 3 1
28/08/2011 A Real Madrid Real Zaragoza 6-0 La Liga 3 0
24/09/2011 H Real Madrid Rayo Vallecano 6-2 La Liga 3 2
22/10/2011 A Real Madrid Malaga 4-0 La Liga 3 0
06/11/2011 H Real Madrid Osasuna 7-1 La Liga 3 1
17/12/2011 A Real Madrid Sevilla 6-2 La Liga 3 1
12/02/2012 H Real Madrid Levante 4-2 La Liga 3 1
11/04/2012 A Real Madrid Atletico Madrid 4-1 La Liga 3 1
30/09/2012 H Real Madrid Deportivo La Coruña 5-1 La Liga 3 2
03/10/2012 A Real Madrid Ajax 4-1 Champions League 3 0
09/01/2013 H Real Madrid Celta Vigo 4-0 Copa del Rey 3 0
27/01/2013 H Real Madrid Getafe 4-0 La Liga 3 1
09/02/2013 H Real Madrid Sevilla 4-1 La Liga 3 0
06/09/2013 A Portugal Northern Ireland 4-2 World Cup Qualifier 3 0
17/09/2013 A Real Madrid Galatasaray 6-1 Champions League 3 0
30/10/2013 H Real Madrid Sevilla 7-3 La Liga 3 1
09/11/2013 H Real Madrid Real Sociedad 5-1 La Liga 3 1
19/11/2013 A Portugal Sweden 3-2 World Cup Qualifier 3 0
20/09/2014 A Real Madrid Deportivo La Coruña 8-2 La Liga 3 0
23/09/2014 H Real Madrid Elche 5-1 La Liga 4 2
05/10/2014 H Real Madrid Athletic Bilbao 5-0 La Liga 3 0
06/12/2014 H Real Madrid Celta Vigo 3-0 La Liga 3 1
05/04/2015 H Real Madrid Granada 9-1 La Liga 5 0
02/05/2015 A Real Madrid Sevilla 3-2 La Liga 3 0
17/05/2015 A Real Madrid Espanyol 4-1 La Liga 3 0
23/05/2015 H Real Madrid Getafe 7-3 La Liga 3 1
13/06/2015 A Portugal Armenia 3-2 Euros Qualifier 3 1
12/09/2015 A Real Madrid Espanyol 6-0 La Liga 5 1
15/09/2015 H Real Madrid Shakhtar Donetsk 4-0 Champions League 3 2
08/12/2015 H Real Madrid Malmö 8-0 Champions League 4 0
31/01/2016 H Real Madrid Espanyol 6-0 La Liga 3 1
05/03/2016 H Real Madrid Celta Vigo 7-1 La Liga 4 0
12/04/2016 H Real Madrid Wolfsburg 3-0 Champions League 3 0
07/10/2016 H Portugal Andorra 6-0 World Cup Qualifier 4 0
29/10/2016 A Real Madrid Alaves 4-1 La Liga 3 1
19/11/2016 A Real Madrid Atletico Madrid 3-0 La Liga 3 1
18/12/2016 H Real Madrid Kashima Antlers 4-2 Club World Cup 3 1
18/04/2017 H Real Madrid Bayern Munich 4-2 Champions League 3 0
02/05/2017 H Real Madrid Atletico Madrid 3-0 Champions League 3 0
31/08/2017 H Portugal Faroe Islands 5-1 World Cup Qualifier 3 1
10/02/2018 H Real Madrid Real Sociedad 5-2 La Liga 3 0
18/03/2018 H Real Madrid Girona 6-3 La Liga 4 0
15/06/2018 N Portugal Spain 3-3 World Cup 3 1
12/03/2019 H Juventus Atletico Madrid 3-0 Champions League 3 1
05/06/2019 H Portugal Switzerland 3-1 UEFA Nations League 3 0
10/09/2019 A Portugal Lithuania 5-1 Euros Qualifier 4 1
14/11/2019 H Portugal Lithuania 6-0 Euros Qualifier 3 1
06/01/2020 H Juventus Cagliari 4-0 Serie A 3 1
14/03/2021 A Juventus Cagliari 3-1 Serie A 3 1
12/10/2021 H Portugal Luxembourg 5-0 World Cup Qualifier 3 2
12/03/2022 H Man United Tottenham 3-2 Premier League 3 0
16/04/2022 H Man United Norwich 3-2 Premier League 3 0
09/02/2023 A Al Nassr Al-Wehda 4-0 Saudi Pro League 4 1
25/02/2023 A Al Nassr Damac 3-0 Saudi Pro League 3 1
25/08/2023 A Al Nassr Al-Fateh 5-0 Saudi Pro League 3 0
30/03/2024 H Al Nassr Al Taee 5-1 Saudi Pro League 3 0
02/04/2024 A Al Nassr Abha 8-0 Saudi Pro League 3 0
04/05/2024 H Al Nassr Al-Wehda 6-0 Saudi Pro League 3 0

Rank Player Country  Hat-tricks
1 Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal  66
2 Lionel Messi Argentina 59
3 Robert Lewandowski Poland 33
4 Luis Suárez Uruguay 30
= 5 Harry Kane England 24
= 5 Erling Haaland Norway 24
7 Neymar Brazil 21
8 Zlatan Ibrahimović Sweden 20
9 Kylian Mbappé France 22
=10 Mario Gómez Germany 18
=10 Klaas-Jan Huntelaar Netherlands 18
=10 Sergio Agüero  Argentina 18

Next Article

Highest scoring footballers of the 21st century

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.

Jun 27, 2025, 4:36 PM11 min read

Highest scoring footballers of the 21st century | sportzpoint.com

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 holds the 8th rank among Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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.

Breakdown of Huntelaar's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals International Matches Country Goals
662 366 76 42

Read Also: 11 players who have won the most trophies in football history.

12. Samuel Eto'o (424 goals) | Cameroon

Samuel Eto'o is 7th among the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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 is 10th in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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 for Barcelona, 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).

Breakdown of Villa's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
729 367 98 59

Read Also: Trophies won by Spain in International Football (Men's)

10. Sergio Aguero (426 goals) | Argentina

Sergio Aguero is 6th among the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
Sergio Aguero playing for Argentina. Image | X
  • Goals: 426
  • Matches: 786
  • Position: Forward

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).

Breakdown of Aguero's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
685 385 101 41

Read Also: Football facts: Players with the most Champions League finals without winning it ever.

9. Neymar Jr. (442 goals) | Brazil

Neymar is 6th in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
Neymar celebrating a goal for Brazil. Image | X
  • Goals: 442
  • Matches: 731
  • Position: Forward

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!

Read Also | Football facts: Brazil fails without Neymar! These stats prove that.

Breakdown of Neymar's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals International Matches Country Goals
603 363 128 79

8. Edinson Cavani (456 goals) | Uruguay

Edinson Cavani is 7th in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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 is 6th in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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.

Breakdown of Kane's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals International Matches Country Goals
607 388 107 73

Read Also: Is 2025 the miraculous year in sports history?

6. Karim Benzema (495 goals) | France

Karim Benzema (495 goals)- France - Most goals in football since 2000 | sportzpoint.com

  • Goals: 495
  • Matches: 955
  • Position: Forward

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. 

Till now, in his club career, the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner and five-time UEFA Champions League winner has scored 458 goals in 858 matches. 

For France, before hanging up his international boots, he had scored 37 times in 97 appearances for Les Bleus. 

Read Also | 11 players who have won the most trophies in football history

Club Matches Club Goals International Matches Country Goals
858 458 97 37

5. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (558 goals) | Sweden

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is 5th in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
Zlatan Ibrahimovic celebrates a goal. Image | X
  • Goals: 558
  • Matches: 949
  • Position: Forward

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.

Zlatan won league titles with Ajax, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, and PSG. He also had a notable spell at Manchester United, winning the Europa League.

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 is 5th among the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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.

Read Also | MSN vs BBC: Rivalry of football's greatest trio in stats

Breakdown of Suarez's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
829 505 143 69

3. Robert Lewandowski (695 goals) | Poland

Robert Lewandowski is 4th among the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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.

Breakdown of Lewandowski's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
823 610 158 85

Read Also: Football teams with the most international trophies.s

2. Lionel Messi (866 goals) | Argentina

Lionel Messi is 2nd in the Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
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!

Read Also | 10 legendary Barcelona players to wear jersey no. 10

Breakdown of Messi's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
853 754 193 112

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

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (938 goals) | Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo is the 1st in Highest scoring footballers in the 21st century | sportzpoint.com
Cristiano Ronaldo celebrating a goal. Image | X
  • Goals: 938
  • Matches: 1281
  • Position: Forward

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.

Read Also | Every single trophy Cristiano Ronaldo has won in his career

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.

Breakdown of Ronaldo's goals:

Club Matches Club Goals Country Matches Country Goals
1060 800 221 138

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Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time

El Clasico is considered as the greatest football rivalries, between Barcelona and Real Madrid. Here is the list of the top 10 greatest El Clasico matches ever played.

Apr 27, 2025, 6:55 AM5 min read

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com

El Clasico is one of football’s biggest rivalries, between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Over the years, they’ve played many exciting and emotional matches, full of great goals and big moments. With stars like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Roberto Carlos, these games are always packed with talent and drama.

10. Real Madrid 5-0 FC Barcelona, 1995

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Zamorano celebrating his goal in the 1995 El Clasico. Image | TheHardTackle

The Real Madrid vs. Barcelona match on January 7, 1995, at the Santiago Bernabeu was unforgettable. Zamorano netted a hat-trick, leading Real Madrid to a commanding 5-0 victory in this LaLiga clash. It was one of the most one-sided El Clasico matches ever, with the home team fully dominating Barcelona.

The match gave Real Madrid an edge in the title race for La Liga.

9. Real Madrid 2-1 FC Barcelona, 2014

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Gareth Bale(right) celebrating his 85th minute winner against Barcelona in the 2014 El Clasico. Image | Sky Sports

The Mestalla Stadium in Valencia, Spain, hosted the 2014 Copa Del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona on April 16. The match seemed headed for extra time, but a brilliant 85th-minute goal from Gareth Bale secured the victory for Real Madrid. It marked their 19th Copa del Rey title.

8. FC Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid, 2010

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Xavi Hernandez after scoring the first goal of the night in the 2010 El Clasico. Image | CNN

After dominating El Clasico the previous season, Barcelona, led by coach Pep Guardiola, continued their strong form in 2009-10. Real Madrid had spent big to rebuild their "Galactico Era," bringing in stars like Karim Benzema, Mesut Ozil, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

But Madrid’s firepower wasn’t enough. Barcelona crushed them 5-0 at the Camp Nou, with David Villa scoring twice. Messi didn’t score but played a big role in most of the goals.

Read Also: Barcelona vs Real Madrid trophy battle: Which club has won more trophies

7. FC Barcelona 3-3 Real Madrid, 2007

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Lionel Messi celebrating his hattrick in the 2007 El Clasico. Image | 90MIN

This LaLiga match between Barcelona and Real Madrid took place at Camp Nou on March 10, 2007, and ended in an exciting 3-3 draw. Both teams played their hearts out, making it one of the greatest El Clasico matches in recent years.

Messi scored a hat-trick, while Van Nistelrooy scored twice and Ramos added one for Madrid. A fierce, high-scoring clash that highlighted both teams' firepower.

6. Real Madrid 4-2 FC Barcelona, 2005

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Raul Gonzalez celebrating his goal in the 2005 El Clasico. Image | Squawka

The early 2000s saw Real Madrid stacked with stars like Zidane, Roberto Carlos, Beckham, and Ronaldo Nazario. Despite Barcelona boasting talents like Ronaldinho, Eto'o, and Xavi, Madrid outclassed them with a 4-2 win—Zidane and Ronaldo struck early, while Raul and Owen sealed it in the second half.

5. Real Madrid 3-1 FC Barcelona, 1960

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Alfredo Di Stefano trying to score a goal in the 1960 El Clasico. Image | Alamy

Real Madrid’s clash with Barcelona in the 1960 European Cup Semifinal is seen as a key moment in El Clasico history. Madrid won 3-1 and reached the final. Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskas found the net for Real Madrid, sealing their victory in the semifinal against Barcelona.

The match showed the strong rivalry and attacking power of both teams. It's still remembered today as one of the greatest El Clasico matches and a major turning point in their history.

4. FC Barcelona 4-0 Real Madrid, 2015

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Luis Suarez(centre) celebrating his goal in the 2015 El Clasico. Image | FC Barcelona

During the peak of the MSN era at Barcelona, the team looked unstoppable in Spain. But for the first El Clasico of the season, Messi was out with an injury. Surprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t make much impact, while Luis Suárez and Neymar stepped up. They led Barcelona to a dominant 4-0 win over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.

Read Also: Youngest goalscorers in El Clasico: Lamine Yamal breaks 77-year-old record to become the youngest ever

3. Real Madrid 4-2 FC Barcelona, 1988

With both teams playing attacking football and creating plenty of chances, this was the greatest El Clasico match of the 1980s. Butragueno gave Real Madrid the lead, but Gary Lineker put Barcelona ahead. Goals from Schuster and Michel made it 3-1 for Madrid. Julio Salinas gave Barca hope, but a late goal from Hugo Sanchez sealed the win for Real Madrid.

2. FC Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid, 2011

Top 10 Greatest EL Clasico Matches of All Time | sportzpoint.com
Cesc Fabregas(left) celebrating his assist to Lionel Messi(right) in the 2011 El Clasico. Image | TheNewYorkTimes

One of the most intense and dramatic El Clasicos happened in 2011 during the Supercopa de Espana. The first leg ended in a 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu, but the second leg had everything—goals, fouls, and lots of drama.

Iniesta put Barcelona ahead, Ronaldo equalised, and Messi sealed it with two goals, including a late 88th-minute winner. The match turned chaotic after a foul on Fabregas sparked a brawl, leading to four red cards and Mourinho infamously poking Vilanova in the eye.

1. FC Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid, 2017

Greatest El-Clasicos of all time - FC Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid, 2017 | sportzpoiint.com

Debatably the greatest El Clasico match of the modern era, took place in the 2016-17 LaLiga season. Real Madrid was leading the league and hoping to extend their lead, while Barcelona needed a win to stay in the title race.

What made this match unforgettable happened in the final moments. The ball was passed to Messi just outside the Real Madrid penalty area. Instead of taking a wild shot, Messi calmly placed the ball into the bottom corner, securing a crucial victory for Barcelona at their biggest rivals' home.

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FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Brazil's squad announced, Neymar and Oscar named in the squad

Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers squad has been announced, and Neymar and Oscar have been called for the qualifiers. This article provides the full squad details.

Mar 2, 2025, 1:39 PM2 min read

Neymar and Oscar named in Brazil's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
(Image Credit | The Independent)

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) has announced a preliminary list of 52 players called up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying matches against Colombia on March 21 and Argentina on March 26. 

This list includes former Barcelona forward Neymar Jr. and former Chelsea forward Oscar, both of whom are returning to the national team after a long time.

Next week, Brazil national team's head coach Dorival Junior will announce the final squad of 23 players.

Full Players List:

Goalkeepers:

  •  Alisson (Liverpool, England),
  • Bento (Al-Nassr, Saudi Arabia),
  • Ederson (Manchester City, England),
  • Hugo Souza (Corinthians),
  • Lucas Perry (Lyon, France),
  •  Weverton (Palmeiras).

Defenders:

  •  Alessandro (Lille, France),
  • Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain, France),
  • Danilo (Flamengo), Fabricio Bruno (Cruzeiro),
  • Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal, England),
  • Leo Ortiz (Flamengo),
  • Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain, France),
  • Murillo (Nottingham Forest, England).

Full-backs: 

  • Abner (Lyon, France),
  • Alex Sandro (Flamengo),
  • Alex Telles (Botafogo),
  • Dodo (Fiorentina, Italy),
  •  Douglas Santos (Zenit, Russia),
  • Guilherme Arana (Atletico Mineiro),
  • Wanderson (Monaco, France),
  • Wesley (Flamengo).

Midfielders: 

  • Alisson (São Paulo),
  • Andre (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Andreas Pereira (Fulham, England),
  • Andrey Santos (Strasbourg, France),
  • Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle, England),
  • Ederson (Atalanta, Italy),
  • Gerson (Flamengo),
  • João Gomes (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Joelinton (Newcastle, England),
  • Lucas Moura (São Paulo),
  • Lucas Paquetá (West Ham, England),
  • Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Neymar (Santos),
  • Oscar (São Paulo).

Forwards:

  •  Antony (Real Betis, Spain),
  • Bruno Henrique (Flamengo),
  • Endrick (Real Madrid, Spain),
  • Estevão (Palmeiras),
  • Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal, England),
  •  Galeno (Al-Ahli, Saudi Arabia),
  • Igor Jesus (Botafogo),
  •  Igor Paixão (Feyenoord, Netherlands),
  • João Pedro (Brighton, England),
  • Luis Enrique (Zenit, Russia),
  • Raphinha (Barcelona, Spain),
  • Rodrygo (Real Madrid, Spain),
  • Samuel Lino (Atletico Madrid, Spain),
  • Savinho (Manchester City, England),
  • Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid, Spain), 
  • Yuri Alberto (Corinthians)

 

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