Most Goal involvements in the 2020-21 season

As Robert Lewandowski wins the Golden Boot, we look at players with the most goal involvements in the 2020-21 season %%sep%% %%sitename%%

Debangshu Biswas

Jun 2, 2021, 11:26 AM

Football is not only about scoring goals, but also about the effort and creativity behind it. Often we overlook the other players and only focus on the goal scorer. In this article we'll find out which player has the most goal involvements this season. It will include statistics adding up both goals and assists which helped the team.

Top 10 players with most goal involvements this season:

List of players with the most goal involvements in the 2020-21 season
Most Goal Involvements

1. Robert Lewandowski | FC Bayern Munich

Robert Lewandowski has the most goal involvements this season - SportzPoint
Robert Lewandowski
Image - Bayern Strikes

Lewandowski had an exceptional last season, and this season is no different as well. The Bayern Munich Ace striker broke Gerd Muller's 49-year-old goal-scoring record. He netted his 41st goal of the season and set a new record of the most no. Of goals in a single season in Bundesliga. The Polish striker has the most goal involvements this season with 48 G+A (41+7). He also won the Golden shoe race and becomes the Polish man to win it. Although, Bayern had a decent season winning the league title after PSG kicked them out of the champions league quarter-finals.

2. Lionel Messi | FC Barcelona

Leo messi has the second most goal involvements - SportzPoint
Leo Messi
Image - The Japan Times

The 6-time Ballon-D'or winner has been consistently featuring in this list for the past few years. One of the best players in the world, if not the best, has been carrying Barcelona at his back day in, day out. The Argentine has the second most goal involvements this season despite Barcelona's failure in major stages. Messi has a whopping 39( G+A) with 30 goals and 9 assists this season. He has set the bar so high for himself that people consider him finished even after this sort of performance. Fans hope that he stays at Barcelona and continue to embrace the Camp nou pitch.

3. Harry Kane | Tottenham Hotspur

Harry Kane has 38( G+A) goal involvements this season - SportzPoint
Harry Kane
Image - Everything Barca

The England captain and one of the best strikers in the world feature at no. 3 in this list. The Tottenham star is the only one here from the Premier League. He has 38 goal involvements this season with 23 goals and a mind-blowing 15 assists. Despite all this effort Spurs had a disappointing season finishing 7th in the Premier League. Rumours suggest Harry Kane might leave the club and move to somewhere he can win trophies.

Also read: Top 10 transfer rumours of the upcoming summer transfer window

4. Romelu Lukaku | Inter Milan

Romelu Lukaku's 35(G+A) goal contribution was crucial in Inter's title winning run - SportzPoint
Romelu Lukaku
Image - FourFourTwo

The Belgian star shined with 35(G+A) goal involvements, the highest in Serie A. He has 24 goals and 11 assists to his name. Lukaku had a huge involvement in the title-winning run of Inter in the Italian top tier. Antonio Conte brought him from Manchester United and it paid off very well. Conte along with Lukaku and others helped Inter to end their title drought and brought home the Serie A title after 11 long years.

5. Kylian Mbappe | Paris Saint Germain

After injury and covid 19 Mbappe still has a 34(G+A) this season - SportzPoint
Kylian Mbappe
Image- The Real Champs

The most expensive youngster in the world had a pretty decent season individually. Although his team failed to win both the Champions League and the domestic league, Mbappe had a decent contribution. The World Cup-winning French man has 34(G+A) goal contribution this season. With 26 goals and 8 assists to his name, he had a pretty average season by his standards. Injury and Covid 19 had a serious impact on him.

6. Erling Haaland | Borussia Dortmund

Erling Haaland has 33(G+A) goal contribution this year - SportzPoint
Erling Braut Håland
Image - The Independent

The 20-year old Norwegian has impressed everyone with his goal-scoring abilities. After joining Dortmund in the midseason last year this lad hasn't looked back. He has 33(G+A) goal contributions this year for Dortmund. Haaland has 27 goals in just 34 starts and also has 6 assists to his name.

7. Andre Silva | Eintracht Frankfurt

The portuguese has 33 goal contributions this season - SportzPoint
Andre Silva
Image - Transfermarkt

The name might not be familiar to everyone, but this player has stepped up his game after coming to Bundesliga. Andre Silva struggled to live up to expectations at AC Milan and Sevilla. The Portuguese forward has 33(G+A) goal contribution this season. He is the main goal threat for Frankfurt. Silva has scored 28 goals and provided 5 assists to be on this chart. He is behind Erling Haaland only because of higher minutes played.

8. Cristiano Ronaldo | Juventus F.C.

Ronaldo finds his place at no. 8 with 31 goal contribution this season - SportzPoint
Cristiano Ronaldo
Image - Business - Insider

One of the greatest ever to grace the game Mr Cristiano Ronaldo has 31(G+A) goal contributions this season for Juventus. People might not be familiar with seeing him at the bottom half of the list. But it has been that type of a season both for him and his club. Although he scored 29 goals and became the top scorer in Serie A but couldn't lead his club to a league title. This is the first time Juventus have failed to win the league in 9 years. Ronaldo also has 2 assists to his name.

Also read: Most Champions League Goals In History

9. Karim Benzema | Real Madrid C.F.

Karim Benzema has 31(G+A) this season making him 9th in the list - SportzPoint
Karim Benzema
image - The Real Champs

Benzema has been their main man since Cristiano left the club. He has been a prolific goal scorer for Real Madrid in the past two seasons. This season he has 31(G+A) goal contribution for his team. He has scored 23 goals and 8 assists to his name. Karim Benzema has been very good this season but still went trophyless with Real Madrid. His performance earned him a spot in the French squad for Euro 2020. He is behind Ronaldo with the same number of goal contributions because of more minutes played.

Also read: Euro 2020 Schedule, Groups and Fixtures: Every Detail on Euro 2020

10. Memphis Depay | Olympique Lyonnais

The Dutch star has 31 goal contribution this season - SportzPoint
Memphis Depay
image - Ligue 1

The Netherlands International has 31(G+A) goal contributions this year. He has scored 20 goals this season touching his all-time high in Ligue 1. He has also provided 11 assists this season which is pretty valuable for a goal-scoring forward. Barcelona is keen on bringing him as Koeman knows him very well from his time as manager of The Netherlands national team. He is behind Ronaldo and Benzema because of higher minutes played.

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The most Valuable U21 Football Players in 2024

The football scene is buzzing with young players dazzling on the pitch, leaving fans in awe of their talent. In 2024, these rising stars boast incredible market values, and Sportz Point showcases them all.

Muojindu Francis

Nov 18, 2024, 4:41 PM

The most Valuable U21 Football Players in 2024

A remarkable crop of young talent continues to grace the football world in 2024, with under-21 players attracting enormous attention and high prices. In addition to being the sport's future, these up-and-coming talents are already having a big influence on their teams and the global scene. 

These U21 players are not only influencing the success of their clubs but also changing the economics of contemporary football as transfer markets soar to previously unheard-of heights. Let's take a look at the players leading the list.

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Lamine Yamal- €181M

Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player to make 50 LaLiga appearances-sportzpoint.com

Unsurprisingly, the Barcelona winger tops the list, thanks to his remarkable achievements in 2024, including becoming one of the youngest players to score and win the Euros.

His contributions at club level this season have been equally outstanding. From decisive goals to maintaining relentless attacking pressure, Yamal has embraced responsibilities on the pitch that are rare for someone his age.

With the growing demand for top-quality players in his position, his market value is set to rise even further. Should Barcelona decide to part ways with him, they would undoubtedly hold a commanding position in negotiations.

Read Also| Ajax announces to bring back the classic logo from 2025-26 season

Alejandro Garnacho- €115M

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Premier League 2024-25 LIVE updates - Garnacho impressed in the second half - sportzpoint.com

Under Erik Ten Hag's leadership at Manchester United, this young Argentine has emerged as a rising star. While he lacks major silverware compared to Yamal, his impact at United has been significant, particularly when the team struggled in attack and goals were hard to come by.

The player has shown notable improvement across various facets of his game, including dribbling, shooting accuracy, and teamwork, making him an exciting talent to watch. However, I believe his valuation might be inflated—although playing for one of football’s most iconic clubs naturally amplifies his market appeal.

Read Also| AIFF Proposes New Structure for men's Football Competitions in India

Warren Zaire- Emery- €109M

Warren Zaire Emery- Sportz Point.com

It’s still surprising that clubs didn’t aggressively pursue this young talent during the summer transfer window, perhaps due to lingering doubts about his potential. This season, however, he has firmly established himself as a key figure in PSG’s midfield, forming an impressive partnership with Fabian Ruiz.

Should PSG clinch the Ligue 1 title dominantly and make significant progress in the Champions League, the player is likely to attract more interest from top clubs, with his market value expected to soar.

Savinho- €101M

Savinho in action for Man City- Sportz Point.com

Football analysts have given Brazilian winger Savinho a lot of credit for his flair, and versatility.  Pep Guardiola was impressed by his performance during his time with Girona, as he produced 11 goals and 10 assists in the 2023–2024 campaign and this led to Manchester City signing him in the summer of this year.

Guardiola called him "devastating in one-on-one situations" and emphasized his ability to make accurate crosses and generate a potent attacking situation

Savinho has the potential to be a prominent figure in the Premier League as well as for City if he keeps improving. He is a player to keep an eye on this season because of his explosive playstyle and room for improvement.

Read Also| Most goal contributions so far in Europe's top 5 leagues this season

Joao Neves- €100M

Joao Neves - Sportz Point.com

One of Europe's most promising young players is João Neves, a Portuguese midfielder who made a high-profile move to PSG earlier this year for an estimated €60 million (with add-ons). He is a sought-after asset because of his performances at Benfica and his innate ability to direct play. 

Neves is well known for his technical abilities, which include accurate passing and deftly avoiding pressure. His pressing style demonstrates a relentless, high-intensity strategy for regaining possession. 

Given his current trajectory, João Neves' market value is likely to rise as he continues to impress in one of Europe's most competitive leagues.

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Portugal vs Poland UEFA Nations League: Preview, Head to Head, Permutations and State of Play

As the UEFA Nations League resumes Sportz Point brings you all the talking points to look out for in a game that promises to nothing short of exciting.

Muojindu Francis

Nov 14, 2024, 2:32 PM

Portugal vs Poland UEFA Nations League: Preview, Head to Head, Permutations and State of Play

Portugal will pay host to the Polish team in the UEFA Nationes League group game on the 15th of November 2024 at the Estadio do Dragao in Porto at 1.15 AM IST.

The hosts currently sit at the top of group 1 in League A recording 3 wins and 1 draw from four matches currently played and they will have the chance to extend their lead if they secure a crucial win against Poland.

However, the same cannot be said for Poland. The team has managed one win out of  4 matches and they sit 3rd in the group only above Scotland. It remains to be seen if Michal Probierz can change the fortune of the team moving foward.

Read Also| Belgium vs Italy UEFA Nations League: Where to watch, Previous records, Head-to-head stats

Match Details

Match: Portugal vs Poland

Date: 15 November 2024

Time: 1:15 AM IST

Venue: Estadio do Dragao, Porto, Portugal

Read Also| UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin hits back amid controversy over excessive number of matches

Streaming Details

Indian viewers can stream the game live on the SonyLIV app and website. The TV broadcast will be on Sony Sports Network channels.

Head-to-head Stats

Matches Played: 9

Portugal wins: 4

Poland wins: 2

Draws: 3

Read Also| Most goal contributions so far in Europe's top 5 leagues this season

Previous Records

Portugal and Poland have faced each other 9 times. Portugal have recorded more wins as they have won 4 times in this fixture. Poland has won twice. The other 3 matches ended in a draw, with the last meeting between these two teams in October 2024. 

Read Also| Substitutions that changed the football history

Match Prediction

Portugal has a significant advantage going into games because they are the host team, which is another factor that contributes to the odds being stacked in their favour. 

It will be very tough for the Polish players to control Portugal since, on paper, they are a stronger and more balanced team with speedy forwards who can take advantage of gaps and excellent midfield players that have the capacity to maintain pressure.

Team News and Injury Update

Robert Lewandoski has been ruled out of this fixture it will be difficult to for Poland to make an impact in attack with his absence considering that he is their most prolific goal threat.

Portugal is not missing any key player heading into this fixture and this will present the perfect opportunity to improve their standing on the table.

Possible Starting XI's 

Portugal

Diogo Costa(GK), Dalot, Dias, Goncalo Inacio, Nuno Mendes, Bernado Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, Neto, Ronaldo, Leao

Poland

Martin Bulka(GK), Kiwior, Bednarek, Piatkowski, Zaleweski, Zelinski, Moder, Szymanski, Frankowski, Urbanski, Piatek

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The most shocking goal misses in Football history

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

The most shocking goal misses in Football history

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

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

Erling Haaland 

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

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

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

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

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

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting

(PSG vs Strasbourg, Ligue 1 2018-19)

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

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

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

Neal Maupay

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

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

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

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo

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

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

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

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

Lionel Messi 

(Argentina vs Trinidad and Tobago, Friendly, 2014)

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

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

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

Randal Kolo Muani

(France vs Argentina, 2022 FIFA World Cup Final)

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

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

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

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

Fernando Torres 

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

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

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

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

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

Yakubu Ayegbeni

(Nigeria vs South Korea, FIFA World Cup 2010)

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

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

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

Ilija Sivonjic

(Dinamo Zagreb vs Cibalia Vinkovci, HNK 2006)

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

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

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

Ronny Rosenthal

(Liverpool vs Aston Villa, 1996)

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

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

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

Rosenthal later joked about this famous miss and said:

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

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

via Birmingham Live

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Top scorers in Europe’s top league

Europe’s top football leagues are filled with goal-scoring talent, where some of the world's most skilled forwards battle it out each season to make their mark. This list spotlights the top scorers across Europe’s elite leagues.

Muojindu Francis

Nov 9, 2024, 9:16 AM

Top scorers in Europe’s top league

Goal scoring is one of the most difficult skills in football. However, some players have mastered converting a few chances into many goals. From the relentless pace of the English Premier League to the creative dynamism of La Liga and the precision of the Bundesliga, Sportz Point tells you about the people in the spotlight in Europe.

Read Also| Viktor Gyokeres: Do you know he was sold by Brighton for only £1 m in 2021?

1. Viktor Gyokeres|16 Goals|10 Games

Viktor Gyokeres after scoring against Manchester City- Sportz Point.com

Swedish star Viktor Gyökeres is spearheading Sporting CP’s campaign for a second consecutive league title, showcasing the same qualities that put him in the spotlight at Coventry. His recent hat-trick against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League has only heightened his profile on the big stage.

With an impressive 16 goals in 10 league games, Gyökeres is averaging over a goal per match, making it hard to imagine how Sporting intends to prevent top clubs from coming after him in the summer transfer window.

Read Also| Robert Lewandowski stats under Hansi Flick

2. Robert Lewandoski|14 Goals| 12 Games

99th Champions League goal for Lewandowski - Crvena vs Barcelona - sportzpoint.com

Since his move to Barcelona, the former Bayern Munich star is arguably in his best form yet. Under Hansi Flick’s guidance, he’s rediscovered a new level of dominance, highlighted by an outstanding performance in El Clásico where he controlled duels and commanded the box.

Positioned centrally with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha on either wing, Lewandowski poses a relentless threat, making it nearly impossible for defenses to contain him. This season, he’s showcasing all the qualities that solidify his status as one of the finest strikers of his generation.

Read Also| Who is leading the 2024-25 European Golden Boot race?

3. Erling Haaland|11 Goals| 10 Games

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

Pep Guardiola struck gold by signing Haaland from Dortmund, as the striker has set new standards for goal-scoring in England, consistently breaking records.

This season, Haaland leads the league’s scoring charts, with his standout performance coming against West Ham, where he netted all of City’s goals. Given his current form, he seems well on track to surpass the 30-goal mark once again this season.

4. Harry Kane|11 Goals| 9 Games 

Barcelona vs Bayern Munich UEFA Champions League 2024-25 LIVE scores, News and Updates | Raphinha with an early goal; Kane equalises | BAR 1-1 BAY - sportzpoint.com

Harry Kane has been nothing short of phenomenal this season, Kane’s clinical finishing and intelligent movement have been instrumental in Bayern’s success, as he consistently finds the back of the net with ease.

His ability to score from a variety of positions—whether through powerful shots, headers, or well-timed runs—has already made him a fan favorite in Germany. He is on course not only to challenge for the Bundesliga’s Golden Boot but also to possibly break scoring records.

Read Also| Players with the Most Hat-tricks in International football (Male and Female)

5. Mateo Retegui| 11 Goals| 11 Games

Mateo-Retegui- Sportz Point.com

Mateo Retegui's impressive goal-scoring form, has made him a standout in Serie A. The Italian-Argentine forward’s sharp instincts in front of goal, combined with his physicality and precise finishing, makes him a key asset for Atalanta.

Retegui has shown a knack for being in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on scoring opportunities. His rapid progress suggests he’s not only in contention for the top scorer honors but also likely to attract interest from bigger clubs looking for a reliable finisher.

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Players with the Most Hat-tricks in International football (Male and Female)

Many players have made their mark on the national team by scoring remarkable goals that have helped their countries succeed. In this article, Sportz Point discusses the players with the most hat trick goals in International football.

Muojindu Francis

Nov 8, 2024, 4:11 PM

USA's Alex Morgan in action for her country

Various international women's football players have cemented themselves in history books by achieving remarkable records. At the forefront is Canada's Christine Sinclair, an iconic figure in women's football

This collection of players and their impressive accomplishments underscore the development of women's football and the extraordinary talent that has emerged within the sport over the years. Let’s take a closer look at these stellar performers

Read Also: Real Madrid's Top 5 most expensive signings of all time

Babra Bander: Zambia- 7 

Babra Banda of Zambia at the Olympics- Sportz Point.com

From the streets of Lusaka to the global stage, Barbra Banda’s journey is a testament to determination and raw talent. Born in Zambia’s capital, Banda started playing football at the tender age of seven. But her early sporting prowess wasn’t confined to just football.

Inspired by renowned Zambian boxer Catherine Phiri, Banda also dabbled in boxing at 14, quickly making a name for herself. She dominated the amateur scene, and after winning every bout and seeing other fighters hesitant to face her, Banda turned professional, where she won all five of her matches. However, football eventually took center stage in her life.

In October 2018, Banda signed with Spain's first division club, EDF Logroño, becoming the first Zambian woman to play football in Europe. Her career continued to soar when, in March 2024, she joined the Orlando Pride in the United States, signing a four-year contract that would keep her with the club until 2027.

Her impact on the international stage began early. Banda played for Zambia’s U-17 women’s team at the 2014 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, turning 14 during the tournament. Two years later, on March 6, 2016, she made her senior team debut in a Women’s Nations Cup qualifier against Namibia.

The peak of her career came at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Banda captained the Zambian national team as they made their debut appearance at the prestigious tournament. She became the first woman to score consecutive hat-tricks in Olympic history, netting three goals in a 3-10 loss to the Netherlands, she scored another three in a 4-4 draw against China. These performances also made her the first woman to score two hat-tricks in a single Olympic tournament.

Read Also: I didn't set a date or a deadline": Lionel Messi hints at retirement after hat-trick against BoliviaFIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far

Michelle Akers: United States of America- 7

The name Michelle Akers is synonymous with U.S. women’s soccer dominance. With seven career hat-tricks, Akers helped the U.S. win the inaugural 1991 FIFA Women’s World Cup, leading the tournament with 10 goals, including five in a single game.

Her leading the team was crucial to the U.S. women's team securing its first-ever world title, and she later played a vital role in the 1999 World Cup and 1996 Olympics victories. 

Akers was also the lead scorer in the inaugural FIFA Women's World Cup in China in 1991. The U.S. women's team defeated Norway 2–1 in the final with Akers scoring both goals.

Ali Al-Biski: Libya - 7

Ali Al-Biski, a former Libyan footballer, played as a striker and holds the record as Libya's all-time top scorer despite the nation’s limited participation in FIFA events during his time. He led the Libyan Premier League in scoring twice—first in 1965 with Al-Madina SC, and again in 1968 with Al Ahli Tripoli. He recorded seven hat-tricks for the national team.

Pelé: Brazil - 7

Pele has scored 757 goals in his footballing career

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, famously known as Pelé, was a Brazilian forward and a football icon, widely hailed as one of the greatest players in history. With a Guinness World Record for 1,279 goals in 1,363 games (including friendlies), Pelé was named Athlete of the Century by the IOC in 1999 and featured in Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of the 20th century. He debuted for Santos at 15 and for Brazil at 16, winning three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970) and scoring seven hat-tricks for Brazil.

Sándor Kocsis: Hungary - 7

Sándor Kocsis, a Hungarian striker, played for Ferencvárosi TC, Budapest Honvéd, Young Fellows Zürich, and FC Barcelona. After relocating to Spain post-1956 Hungarian Revolution, Kocsis joined Barcelona’s squad. He led the 1954 World Cup with a record 11 goals, scoring 23 times for Hungary that year—a single-year record. Kocsis was also the first player to achieve two hat-tricks in a World Cup.

Cristiane: Brazil- 8

Cristian of Brazil in one of her numerous appearances for the country- Sportz Point.com

Brazilian forward Cristiane stands alongside the greats, boasting eight hat-tricks throughout her career. A prolific goal scorer, she played a key role in Brazil's silver medal triumphs at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics. Cristiane has participated in five FIFA Women’s World Cups and four Olympics, with her most recent hat-trick coming in Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Jamaica at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Ali Daei: Iran - 8

Ali dael  in his country's international colors- Sportz Point.com

Iranian striker and former national team captain, Ali Daei, was renowned as the world’s top scorer in official internationals per the IFFHS, netting 20 goals in 1996. During the 1998 World Cup qualifiers, he scored nine goals over 17 matches, amassing 38 goals in 52 appearances by that time. In 2004, he became the first male to score 100 international goals, reaching 102 with a four-goal game against Laos.

Gerd Müller: Germany - 8

Gerd Muller - UEFA Euro 1976 Top Scorer - sportzpoint.com

Gerd Müller, a prolific German striker known for his precision in the penalty area, is considered one of football’s top scorers. With West Germany, he scored 68 goals in 62 games. For Bayern Munich, he scored 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga matches and 65 goals in 74 European games, holding a league scoring record. Müller’s eight hat-tricks include two in the 1970 World Cup.

Poul Nielsen: Denmark - 8

Danish striker Poul Nielsen scored 52 goals in 38 games, sharing Denmark’s top-scoring record. He earned a silver medal at the 1912 Olympics and led Kjøbenhavns Boldklub (KB) to six Danish championships. Scoring eight hat-tricks in international play, Nielsen was an iconic figure for Denmark until his death in 1962.

Abby Wambach: United States of America- 8

American soccer Legend Abby doing an overhead kick- Sportz Point.com

Mary Abigail Wambach, born on June 2, 1980, is a retired American soccer player, coach, and National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee. A six-time recipient of the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year award, Wambach was a key player for the U.S. women’s national team from 2003 to 2015.

She earned her first international cap in 2001 and, as a forward, became the highest all-time goal scorer for the U.S. national team. Globally, she ranks second in international goals for both men and women with 184 goals, trailing only Canada's Christine Sinclair.

Wambach competed in four FIFA Women's World Cup tournaments: the 2003 edition in the U.S., the 2007 event in China, the 2011 tournament in Germany, and the 2015 competition in Canada. She also represented the U.S. in the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Olympics.

Throughout these five major international tournaments, Wambach played 30 matches and netted 22 goals. She helped her team secure two Olympic gold medals, third-place finishes twice at the Women's World Cup, a second-place finish in 2011, and ultimately, a World Cup victory in 2015.

Read Also: FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far

Carli Lloyd: United States of America- 9

Retired female football veteran Carli holding a world cup trophy- Sportz Point.com

Carli Lloyd is another legend of international football, having represented the U.S. from 2012 to 2021. Over her remarkable career, she earned two Olympic gold medals (in 2008 and 2012) and won two FIFA Women's World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019. In addition, she was named FIFA Player of the Year twice, in 2015 and 2016, and competed in four Olympic Games (2008, 2012, 2016, and 2021).

Lloyd’s capacity for rising to the occasion was evident when she scored the decisive goals in the gold medal matches of both the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. She was also instrumental in the U.S. clinching World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, she also secured a bronze medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics. She played in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, where the US finished as runners-up.

Ali Mabkhout: UAE - 9

Ali Makhbout- Sportz Point.com

Ali Mabkhout, a forward for Al Nasr and the UAE national team, debuted with Al Jazira in 2009. A pivotal figure in UAE’s 2019 AFC Asian Cup quarterfinal win over Australia, he became UAE’s top scorer on October 10, 2019, with a hat-trick against Indonesia in a 5-0 victory.

Sven Rydell: Sweden- 9

Swedish striker Sven Rydell scored 49 goals in 43 matches, a record that stood for over 80 years until broken by Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2014. Rydell’s international career included a bronze medal at the 1924 Olympics, and he holds the Swedish record of nine international hat-tricks.

Vivian Woodward: England - 10

Vivian Woodward, an English forward, starred from the early 1900s to World War I, playing for Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. As Great Britain’s captain, he won gold at the 1908 and 1912 Olympics, recording six hat-tricks for England amateurs and four for England’s national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal- 10

Europe's Top International Goalscorers: Cristiano Ronaldo extends his lead-sportzpoint.com

At the age of 18, Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal as a substitute against Kazakhstan on 20 August 2003. At UEFA Euro 2004, he scored his first international goal in a 2–1 group stage loss to Greece in his eighth international appearance.

In 2016, Ronaldo led Portugal to their first-ever trophy at the UEFA Euro 2016, although he was subbed off in the 25th minute in the final against hosts France.He received the Silver Boot as the second-highest goalscorer.

In the 2018 World Cup, Ronaldo became the oldest player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup match, in a 3–3 draw against Spain Cristiano Ronaldo became the first male player to score 10 hat-tricks for a national team on 12 October 2021 in Portugal's 5–0 win against Luxembourg, breaking Sven Rydell's record.

Lionel Messi:Argentina -10

Lionel Messi hints at retirement after hat-trick against Bolivia-sportzpoint.com

Lionel Messi debuted for Argentina’s U20 team in 2004 and won the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship. His senior debut came in 2005 at 18. In 2021, he ended Argentina’s 28-year trophy drought with a Copa América win. On October 15, 2024, Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick in a 6-0 win over Bolivia.

Christine Sinclair: Canada- 11

Former Canadian soccer captain Sinclaire celebrating a goal- Sportz Point.com

Christine Margaret Sinclair is a Canadian professional soccer player who plays as a forward for the Portland Thorns in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). From 2000 until her international retirement in 2023, she was a key member of the Canadian national team. 

Sinclair is an Olympic gold medalist, two-time Olympic bronze medalist, CONCACAF champion, and has won the Canada Soccer Player of the Year award 14 times. She holds the world record for the most international goals scored by any player, male or female, with 190 goals and is among the most-capped players in international soccer, with 331 appearances.

In a career spanning more than two decades with the senior national team, Sinclair has competed in six FIFA Women's World Cups and four Olympic Football Tournaments, leading her team to bronze medals in 2012 and 2016, and to gold in 2020.

She is one of only three players to score in five different World Cup tournaments, alongside Marta and Cristiano Ronaldo. In 2022, Sinclair was honored with the Best FIFA Special Award for her achievement as the world’s top goal scorer.

Notably, Sinclair scored her eleventh international hat-trick during a 2012 Olympic match against the United States, netting all three of Canada’s goals in a 3–4 loss.

Read Also: Most valuable Spanish players in history: Yamal goes past Rodri

Alex Morgan: United States of America- 12 

Alex Morgan of the USWNT during a match- Sportz Point.com

Alexandra Patricia Morgan, born on July 2, 1989, is a retired American professional soccer player who last played as a striker for San Diego Wave FC in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), where she served as captain, as well as for the United States national team. She co-captained the U.S. national team with Carli Lloyd and Megan Rapinoe from 2018 to 2020, and later with Lindsay Horan in 2023.

Morgan was the first overall pick in the 2011 WPS Draft by the Western New York Flash, where she made her professional debut and contributed to the team's league championship win. At 22, she was the youngest player on the U.S. national team at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, where the team finished as runner-up.

During the 2012 London Olympics, Morgan scored the decisive goal in the 123rd minute of the semi-final against Canada. She ended 2012 with 28 goals and 21 assists, becoming the second American woman, after Mia Hamm, to record 20 goals and 20 assists in a single year. This achievement made her the sixth and youngest U.S. player to reach 20 goals in one season. Morgan was named U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year and became a FIFA World Player of the Year finalist.

She played a crucial role in the U.S. team's victories at the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women's World Cups, earning a spot on the Dream Team in both tournaments and winning the Silver Boot in 2019. Morgan recorded her eleventh international hat-trick with five goals on 11 June 2019 in the United States 13–0 victory over Thailand in the 2019 World

Her record-breaking twelfth international hat-trick came in 2021 against Paraguay in a game where the United States dominated and won 8-0

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