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Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

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

Feb 7, 2025, 2:17 PM13 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

Angel Di Maria

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

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

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

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

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

Thomas Muller 

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

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

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

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

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

Olivier Giroud

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

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

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

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

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

Davor Šuker

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

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

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

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

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

Antoine Griezmann

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sergio Busquets

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

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

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

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

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

Hugo Lloris

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

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

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

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

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

Edin Džeko

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Laudrup

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

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

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

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

Gabriel Batistuta

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

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

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

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

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

Andrea Pirlo

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

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

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

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

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

Ronald Koeman

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

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

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

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

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

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

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

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

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

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

George Best

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

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

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

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

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

Gheorghe Hagi

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

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

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

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

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

Günter Netzer

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

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

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

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

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

Hristo Stoichkov

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

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

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

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

Gaetano Scirea

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

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

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

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

Rudi Völler 

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

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

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

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

Matthias Sammer

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

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

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

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

Next Article

Football facts: Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever

From Lautaro Martinez's recent heartbreak to Gianluigi Buffon's three final losses, explore the players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever. Here's to the players who came so close, but never won.

Jun 2, 2025, 11:26 AM4 min read

Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com

The pain of a Champions League final defeat is a feeling few footballers will ever experience. But for some, that crushing disappointment has become an all too familiar nightmare.

The recent 2025 final saw Lautaro Martinez experience this heartbreak, joining a list of legendary players who have been extremely close to European glory, not once, but multiple times.

Check out the list of players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever.

Gianluigi Buffon (Italy, Juventus) | 3 Finals

Gianluigi Buffon tops the list of players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com
Gianluigi Buffon walking past the trophy with runners-up medal after their loss in 2017 UCL finals. Image | BBC

One of the greatest goalkeepers of all-time, Gianluigi Buffon was the extraordinary last line of defence for Juventus for many years. He reached the finals 3 times out of which twice he led the the team as a captain, and lost all of them.

  • 2003 Final: Faced AC Milan that ended 0-0 after extra time, where Buffon made a crucial save from Filippo Inzaghi in the normal time. However, Juventus ultimately lost 3-2 on penalties.
  • 2015 Final: Led Juventus against Barcelona and faced a 3-1 defeat, despite a commendable performance.
  • 2017 Final: Lost 4-1 against Real Madrid and it was painful as the opponent dominanted completely in the second-half.

Read Also: Football Facts: Managers with most UCL titles

Paolo Montero (Uruguay, Juventus) | 3 Finals

Paolo Montero is at the top of Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com
Paolo Montero in 2003 Champions League final. Image | Juvefc.com

Paolo Montero was a key central defender of Juventus' backline during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He too reached the finals thrice and never tasted victory in any of the Champions League finals.

  • 1997 Final: Juventus were the defending champions in this season, and was unable to control Borussia Dortmund, lost 3-1 in the finals.
  • 1998 Final: Lost 1-0 vs Real Madrid in a tense final, which marked their second consecutive final defeat.
  • 2003 Final: Battled AC Milan to a 0-0 draw and eventually lost 3-2 in penalties.

Alessio Tacchinardi (Italy, Juventus) | 3 Finals

Alessio Tacchinardi is among Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com
Alessio Tacchinardi playing for Juventus in 2003 UCL final. Image | Getty

Another player of Juventus, Alessio Tacchinardi, a hardworking midfielder, finds his place in this list with 3 final defeats. He also has the same story as Montero, with disappointing losses in the years 1997, 1998, and 2003.

Read Also: Most Champions League titles won by Football Clubs

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina, Inter Milan) | 2 Finals

Lautaro Martinez is among the Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com
Lautaro Martinez walking past the UCL Cup with runners-up medal after losing against PSG in the final. Image | Facebook

The Argentinian striker, Lautaro Martinez is Inter Milan's attacking shepherd and captain. He made his way up in this list with their recent loss in the 2025 Champions League final against PSG. He was a part of 2 finals and lost both the times.

  • 2023 Final: Despite great efforts, lost 1-0 to Manchester City in a thrilling final. Martinez had a chance to equalize but couldn't convert, a moment that lingered in the memory for Inter fans.
  • 2025 Final: A heavy 5-0 loss against Paris Saint-Germain which added a second layer to his final setbacks.

Antoine Griezmann (France, Atletico Madrid) | 2 Finals

Antoine Griezmann is among the Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever | sportzpoint.com
Antoine Griezmann in 2016 Champions League final. Image | BBC

Antoine Griezmann was the creative heartbeat and primary attacking threat for Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid during their golden era. He reached the finals 2 times with this side and met with defeats every time.

  • 2014 Final: Faced cross city rivals Real Madrid in a dramatic final, and lost 4-1.
  • 2016 Final: Another defeat against Real Madrid, where they lost 5-4 (Juanfran missed the decisive penalty) in penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Read Also: 10 most successful African Players with most goals in the UEFA Champions League

Other Atletico Madrid Players with 2 UCL final defeats in the same years (2014, 2016):

Players No. of final defeats Years
Saul Niguez (Spain) 2 2014, 2016
Koke (Spain) 2 2014, 2016
Juanfran (Spain) 2 2014, 2016
Diego Godin (Uruguay) 2 2014, 2016
Filipe Luis (Brazil) 2 2014, 2016
Gabi (Spain) 2 2014, 2016

Next Article

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026

Even though the number of countries participating in the World Cup would increase, there is a chance that a few well-known footballing nations might miss the flight to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

May 28, 2025, 5:29 AM6 min read

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 | sportzpoint.com

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to be the biggest with a record 48 teams, is just one year away. After the huge success of FIFA World Cup 2022, where the world saw an outstanding final between winners Argentina and runners-up France, the next edition is gearing up to break more records. 

But, even though the number of countries participating in the World Cup would increase, there is a chance that a few well-known footballing nations might miss the flight to the FIFA World Cup 2026, in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Today, we will talk about those countries which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

7. Austria

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Austria | sportzpoint.com

Austria under Ralf Rangnick surprised everyone with their high pressing game, beating teams like the Netherlands and Poland in Euro 2024. However, their high-pressing game might not give them great results in the USA. Moreover, their Bundesliga talents are also above their peak age. 

Austria have not started their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign at the moment, and Bosnia-Herzegovina have already taken a 6-point lead in the Group H points table. So, it might be tough for them if they make any silly mistakes during the qualifiers. 

Group H
P W D L GD Pts
1
BIH
2 2 0 0 2 6
2
ROU
2 1 0 1 3 3
3
CYP
2 1 0 1 1 3
4
AUT
0 0 0 0 0 0
5
SMR
2 0 0 2 -6 0

6. Croatia

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Croatia | sportzpoint.com

Although Luka Modric and company surprised everyone with a runners-up finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a third-place finish in 2022, the former Real Madrid great would be 40 during the World Cup. So, we can not expect Modric to take his team over the line alone. 

Although they have a defender like Josko Gvardiol, the entire squad is getting aged, and they are already six points behind teams like the Czech Republic and Montenegro, even before starting their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign.

So, they also have very little room for any mistakes. 

Group L
P W D L GD Pts
1
CZE
2 2 0 0 5 6
2
MNE
2 2 0 0 3 6
3
CRO
0 0 0 0 0 0
4
FRO
2 0 0 2 -2 0
5
GIB
2 0 0 2 -6 0

5. Chile

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Chile | sportzpoint.com

Chile were once considered one of the toughest South American teams with Copa America victories in 2015 and 2016. But those times are gone now for them. 

They still depend on veteran stars like Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, who are at the fag end of their careers. With just two wins in 14 South American qualifiers and a paltry nine goals scored, Chile are currently bottom of the points table. 

With Chile being five points adrift of a play-off spot, they might not make it to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Rank Team P W D L Pts
1 Argentina 14 10 1 3 31
2 Ecuador 14 7 5 2 23
3 Uruguay 14 5 6 3 21
4 Brazil 14 6 3 5 21
5 Paraguay 14 5 6 3 21
6 Colombia 14 5 5 4 20
7 Venezuela 14 3 6 5 15
8 Bolivia 14 4 2 8 14
9 Peru 14 2 4 8 10
10 Chile 14 2 4 8 10

4. Qatar

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026- Qatar | sportzpoint.com

The 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts created history by losing all three group games, becoming the first host nation to do so. However, after back-to-back Asian Cup victories, they were well on track to qualify for the 2026 World Cup on merit.

But, after winning only three of the eight third-round Asian qualifiers matches, they are now behind Iran and Uzbekistan in the group. 

Although there is a fourth round of safety for them, it is not guaranteed that they will qualify from there.  

Group A
P W D L GD Pts
1
IRN
8 6 2 0 9 20
2
UZB
8 5 2 1 4 17
3
UAE
8 4 1 3 7 13
4
QAT
8 3 1 4 -5 10
5
KGZ
8 2 0 6 -6 6
6
PRK
8 0 2 6 -9 2

3. Senegal

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Pape Sarr's Senegal | sportzpoint.com

Senegal, the African football giants, struggled a bit after the departure of coach Aliou Cisse. They had shown great determination during the FIFA World Cup 2022, but after Cisse's departure, they seem to be fading. 

Their senior stars, Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, now play in the Saudi Pro League and are not at their prime as well. It will be up to their youngsters, like Pape Sarr and Nicolas Jackson, to take them home.

Read Also | 10 most successful African Players with most goals in the UEFA Champions League

But they are now behind DR Congo by a point in qualifying. So, any mistake from them could sweep away the dreams of the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

Group B
P W D L GD Pts
1
COD
6 4 1 1 5 13
2
SEN
6 3 3 0 7 12
3
SDN
6 3 3 0 6 12
4
TOG
6 0 4 2 -3 4
5
SSD
6 0 3 3 -8 3
6
MTN
6 0 2 4 -7 2

2. Cameroon

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Onana's Cameroon | sportzpoint.com

Cameroon are Africa's most frequent World Cup participants and has always brought a great flair to the World Cups. But, despite having talents like Andre Onana and Bryan Mbeumo, they have dropped points against Libya, Angola, and Eswatini.

They are currently one point behind Cape Verde in the Group D points table of CAF qualifiers. 

Group D
P W D L GD Pts
1
CPV
6 4 1 1 2 13
2
CMR
6 3 3 0 8 12
3
LBY
6 2 2 2 -1 8
4
ANG
6 1 4 1 0 7
5
MRI
6 1 2 3 -4 5
6
SWZ
6 0 2 4 -5 2

1. Nigeria

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Nigeria | sportzpoint.com

It would be a shame if a team with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface as their attacking trio does not qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, despite having a good side, they have underperformed and won only six matches, trailing South Africa by six points in Group C.

Group C
P W D L GD Pts
1
RSA
6 4 1 1 5 13
2
RWA
6 2 2 2 0 8
3
BEN
6 2 2 2 -1 8
4
NGA
6 1 4 1 1 7
5
LES
6 1 3 2 -1 6
6
ZIM
6 0 4 2 -4 4

Next Article

PSG VS Arsenal: Head to Head stats in UEFA Champions League

With PSG leading 1-0 against Arsenal in the first leg of this year's UEFA Champions League semi-final, let's take a look at the previous encounters between the two teams.

May 6, 2025, 10:06 PM3 min read

PSG VS Arsenal: Head to Head in UEFA Champions League | sportzpoint.com

Paris Saint Germain and Arsenal have met 4 times in the UEFA Champions League. Their first two encounters came in the 2016/17 group stage, with both matches ending in draws.

They met again in the 2024/25 campaign, with Arsenal claiming their first Champions League win over PSG in the league phase.

Most recently, PSG secured their first-ever Champions League victory over Arsenal in the semi-final first leg.

Overall in the Champions League, Arsenal have one win, PSG have one win, and two matches have ended in draws.

Read Also | The Top 10 Players with the Most Hattricks in the UEFA Champions League History

Head-To-Head
PSG Draw Arsenal
1 2 1
Goals
PSG Arsenal
4 5

Arsenal 0-1 PSG | 2024-25 Semi-Final 1st leg

Arsenal vs PSG UEFA Champions League 2024-25 semi-final 1st leg ARS 0-1 PSG | sportzpoint.com
Ousmane Dembele scored the lone goal in the first leg of the 2024-25 Champions League Semi-Final. 

In the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg, PSG edged past Arsenal with a narrow 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Ousmane Dembele was the lone goal scorer, scoring the decisive goal in the 4th minute to give PSG a crucial advantage heading into the second leg. The match was close, with both teams having chances, but PSG’s strong defense and fast attacks gave them the edge.

Arsenal 2-0 PSG | 2024-25 Group Stage

Arsenal 2-0 PSG | 2024-25 Group Stage | sportzpoint.com
Kai Havertz scored a goal at 20 minutes giving an early lead to Arsenal. Image | Sportstar

In the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League group stage, Arsenal earned a confident 2-0 win over PSG at the Emirates Stadium.

It was a strong performance from the Gunners, who showed control and composure throughout the match. Goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka secured the 3 points and marked Arsenal’s first Champions League win of the season.

Read Also | Champions League winners list since 1955/56

PSG 1-1 Arsenal | 2016-17 Group Stage 1st Leg

PSG 1-1 Arsenal | 2016-17 Group Stage 1st Leg | sportzpoint.com
Edinson Cavani Scored in the 1st minute to give PSG an early lead over Arsenal. Image | UEFA

In the first leg of the 2016–17 Champions League group stage, PSG and Arsenal drew 1-1 at the Parc des Princes.

PSG scored early with a 1 minute goal from Edinson Cavani, but Arsenal equalized in the second half through Alexis Sanchez. Both teams had chances, but couldn’t find a winner.

There match was a bit of late drama, as Olivier Giroud and Marco Verratti were both sent off in stoppage time.

Arsenal 2-2 PSG | 2016-17 Group Stage 2nd Leg

Arsenal 2-2 PSG | 2016-17 Group Stage | sportzpoint.com
Oliver Giroud celebrating his goal in the 1st half of the game. Image | The Independent

In the second leg of the 2016–17 Champions League group stage, Arsenal and PSG drew 2-2 at the Emirates Stadium.

 Both teams had already qualified for the next round, but were still competing for first place in the group. Cavani scored providing PSG the lead, but Arsenal came back with a penalty from Oliver Giroud and an own goal from Verratti to go ahead. A late own goal from Iwobi leveled the match.

The draw kept both teams unbeaten, with Arsenal finishing top of the group on goal difference.

Next Article

Thomas Muller set to leave Bayern Munich after spending 25 years with the club

Thomas Muller has played 743 games for Bayern Munich, scoring 243 goals. He will leave the club after spending 25 years with the club, where he won 32 senior trophies.

Apr 5, 2025, 11:36 AM3 min read

Thomas Muller set to leave Bayern Munich after spending 25 years with the club | sportzpoint.com

Former German footballer Thomas Muller has announced that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the 2024-25 season. 

The 35-year-old striker has played 17 seasons for the club. Bayern Munich is the only club he has played for in his career. Muller has played 743 games for Bayern Munich, scoring 243 goals. 

Muller had already retired from international football during the Euro 2024, after featuring 131 times for the national side, where he scored 45 times. 

After playing 88 matches for both the under-19 team and Bayern II, Muller made his senior Bayern Munich debut in the 2008-09 season. In the next season, Muller scored 19 goals and had 16 assists in 52 senior appearances. This helped him become a mainstay at the club. 

In his 17 years with the club, Thomas Muller won 32 trophies for the German giants. His trophy cabinet includes 12 Bundesliga titles, 11 of which came in consecutive seasons from 2012 through to 2023. 

Muller also went on to win two UEFA Champions League titles, one in 2013 and another one in 2020. 

In 2023, Muller signed a contract extension with Bayern Munich till June 2025. With Bayern not deciding to renew his contract, both parties mutually agreed to terminate the contract. 

"The club has consciously decided not to negotiate a new contract with me for next season,” Muller said. 

“Even if this did not correspond to my personal wishes, it is important that the club follows its convictions. Even after all these years, regardless of the minutes I play, I still have a lot of fun being on the pitch with the boys. I could have easily imagined playing this role next year as well.

“I respect this step, which the board and supervisory board certainly did not take lightly. I understandably did not like the back-and-forth in public over the past weeks and months. However, I treat it like I do my own football: It wasn’t always characterised by perfection either, but rather with a positive, forward-thinking approach to the next move. After a bad pass, it is important to win the ball back and be unified. We have achieved this in recent days with honest discussions on this matter as well," Muller added. 

Thomas Muller's stats for Bayern in different competitions 

Thomas Muller's stats for Bayern in different competitions | sportzpoint.com

Competition Appearances Goals Assists
Bundesliga 497 150 210
UEFA Champions League 161 56 34
DFB-Pokal 67 36 27
U19-Bundesliga S/SW 50 24 -
3. Liga 32 15 5
DFL-Supercup 12 5 1
U19-Championship 3 2 -
Regionalliga Süd 3 1 -
UEFA Super Cup 2 - -
Club World Cup 2 - -
Champions League Qual. 2 - 1

Thomas Muller's trophy cabinet with Bayern Munich

Thomas Muller's trophy cabinet with Bayern Munich | sportzpoint.com

  • 6 DFB Cup
  • 2 Champions League
  • 12 Bundesliga titles
  • 3 Audi Cup
  • 2 UEFA Super Cup
  • 8 Super Cup
  • 2 FIFA Club World Cup 
Next Article

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final: Ferran Torres' lone goal helps Barcelona set a date for El-Clasico in the final

Get all the real-time updates, scores, news and free commentary of the Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final second-leg match at Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid.

Apr 2, 2025, 9:53 PM1 min read

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final: Ferran Torres' lone goal helps Barcelona set a date for El-Clasico in the final | sportzpoint.com

Hello, and welcome to another night of exciting football. Tonight, we have a thriller of a match on our hands. This is Koushik Biswas, who will bring you all the real-time LIVE updates, scores, and news of Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg tonight. 

The first leg between the two Spanish giants finished at 4-4, and this second leg will surely be nothing short of that. With Real Madrid already securing their spot in the final this time, we can either have a Madrid derby or an El-Clasico in the final. 

Read Also | Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final 2 Second Leg Match Preview: Head-to-head, Possible Lineups and Fantasy XI Prediction

So, stay tuned as we bring you all the LIVE updates of the match along with the free commentary and images. 

Enjoy the coverage. 

LIVE Updates

Apr 2, 2025, 7:35 PM

Final Score

Apr 2, 2025, 9:51 PM

Final verdict!

So it will be another El Classico in the Copa Del Rey final in Sevilla. Barcelona were the better team and attacked more in the first half, resulting in a goal from Ferran Torres. They could have scored more if they had latched onto the chances created mainly by Lamine Yamal. 

But atletico Madrid brought in three changes at the start of the second half, which made them attack more frequently and freely. 

However, despite a few chances, they were not able to score. Jules Kounde was excellent for Barcelona, making multiple blocks in the final 15 mins of the game. 

This means that Barcelona will meet Real Madrid in the Copa del Dey final and will be another step closer to their target of a treble. 

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Barcelona reach Copa del Rey final after Ferran Torres' lone goal helped them win by 1-0 | sportzpoint.com

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Barcelona reach Copa del Rey final after Ferran Torres' lone goal helped them win by 1-0 | sportzpoint.com

Ferran Torres | sportzpoint.com

Apr 2, 2025, 9:30 PM

Full time | ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg)

Apr 2, 2025, 9:29 PM

90+3' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Gerrad Martin. It's a free-kick for Atletico, from just outside the box.  

Apr 2, 2025, 9:28 PM

90+3' | Kounde with another block

Kounde makes another block as he stops Galan's cross. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:26 PM

90+1' | Molina's misses target

Molina misses the target with a looping header. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:26 PM

4 minutes added

4 minutes have been added as injury time.

Apr 2, 2025, 9:24 PM

89' | Barcelona have not lost the ball for 3 mins

Barcelona have not lost the ball for 3 mins now. They have been there and there about on the edge of the box. But, could not make the final effort though. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:21 PM

86' | Change for Barcelona

Lamine Yamal, who does not wanna leave, is replaced by Gerrad Martin. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:20 PM

84' | Kounde with a block

Galán's left footed effort was blocked by a flying Kounde. Top-class defending. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:18 PM

83' | Chance for Barcelona

A decent chance for Barcelona there after Raphinha found Yamal with a long cross. 

However, Barcelona could not take the advantage and kill the game there. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:16 PM

81' | Change for Atletico

In: Riquelme

Out: Griezmann

Apr 2, 2025, 9:15 PM

80' | Save from Szczęsny

Griezmann's cross goes straight to Szczęsny and he grabs it with both hands. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:14 PM

78' | Lenglet with a great block

Lenglet comes running from behind to block the cross from Lamine on the right. Corner for Barcelona. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:09 PM

74' | Change for Barcelona

Out: Ferran

In: Lewandowski

Apr 2, 2025, 9:08 PM

That offside from Sorloth

Apr 2, 2025, 9:05 PM

FAAASSSTTTT

Apr 2, 2025, 9:04 PM

69' | Goal but offside

Sorloth hits the back of the net with a powerful shot. However, he was offside leading to the goal. 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:03 PM

68' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Balde for a foul on Molina.

Apr 2, 2025, 9:03 PM

68' | Good run from Eric

Good run from Eric Garcia on the byline. However, Ferran could not hold on to the cross sent by him, 

Apr 2, 2025, 9:01 PM

66' | Molina is down now

Molina is down now after a foul from Balde. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:58 PM

63' | Barrios is down

Barrios is down after a tussle with Kounde. Simeone wants a yellow card though for the foul. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:54 PM

59' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Molina for a foul on Eric Garica. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:53 PM

58' | Change for Barcelona

Out: Cubarsi, Fermin

In: Eric Garica, Araujo

Apr 2, 2025, 8:53 PM

58' | Change for Atletico

Out: Le Normand

In: Molina

Apr 2, 2025, 8:51 PM

56' | Save from Musso!

Incredible from Lamine, who dribbled through three defenders before finding Raphinha on the left. 

Raphinha's effort was saved by Musso. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:50 PM

55' | Chance for Atletico

Atletico have been more attacking in the second half. From a cross, Lenglet nearly headed the ball inside the goal. However, he was off-target. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:48 PM

52' | Huge miss from Sorloth

Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid during the Spanish Copa del Rey match between Atletico Madrid v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano on April 2, 2025 in Madrid Spain

What a miss from Sorloth! 

Great ball from De Paul, and Sorloth waited for a bit before making a run inside the box. 

Sorloth was one-on-one against Szczęsny. But, he was only able to hit the side net. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:43 PM

48' | Szczęsny makes the save

Szczęsny makes a good save as Sorloth finds Alvarez with a cross. 

But Sorloth was already offside. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:42 PM

Can Julian find the equaliser?

Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona, Copa del Rey, semi-final, second leg | sportzpoint.com

Apr 2, 2025, 8:41 PM

46' | Changes for Atletico

IN: Sørloth, Lenglet & Javi Galán

OUT: Reinildo, Giuliano & Azpi

Apr 2, 2025, 8:39 PM

Second half!

Alteico Madrid will make three changes as we come back from the break. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:24 PM

Half-time Stat

Apr 2, 2025, 8:22 PM

Half-time | ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg)

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Ferran Torres gives Barca lead; ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg.)

Apr 2, 2025, 8:20 PM

45+3' | Yellow card

Fourth Atleitco player gets on the booking. Julian Alvarez gets the yellow card for a foul on Lamine. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:19 PM

45+3' | Two back-to-back corners for Barcelona

Barcelona trying to get another goal at the fag end of first half. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:17 PM

45' | 3 mins added

3 minutes have been added as injury time.

Apr 2, 2025, 8:17 PM

43' | Lino and Sorloth warming up

Sorloth, who has been a destroyer for Ateltico Madrid against FC Barcelona, is warming up on the sideline. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:16 PM

He is just 17!

Apr 2, 2025, 8:12 PM

39' | Musso makes the save

A huge save from Musso. 

Pedri found Lamine, and the teenager found Raphinha on the left. 

However, the Brazilian did not have enough space and angle to sneak through Musso. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:09 PM

That goal from Ferran

Apr 2, 2025, 8:07 PM

35' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:07 PM

34' | Le Normand misses the header

A foul in the midfield gave Griezmann a chance to go for a long free-kick. 

Le Normand came in running and went for a flying header. But he missed the target.

Apr 2, 2025, 8:03 PM

31' | Yellow card

There's the third yellow for the home team. Reinildo gets the yellow for a foul on Lamine.

Apr 2, 2025, 8:03 PM

29' | Chance for Yamal

Another chance for Yamal, who had the opportunity to go for the goal, after a wall of defenders blocked shots from Raphinha and Pedri. 

Apr 2, 2025, 8:00 PM

27' | He does the job | ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg.)

As we were saying, Ferran Torres does the job for Barcelona. 

Top-class pass from Lamine Yamal and Ferran only had to run hard and send it past Musso to hit the net at the far post. 

Atletico Madrid 0-1 FC Barcelona (4-5 on aggregate) 

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Ferran Torres gives Barca lead; ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg.) | sportzpoint.com

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Ferran Torres gives Barca lead; ATM 0-1 FCB (4-5 agg.) | sportzpoint.com

Atletico de Madrid v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey

Apr 2, 2025, 7:58 PM

Can he do the job?

Apr 2, 2025, 7:57 PM

The home side

Apr 2, 2025, 7:56 PM

Who can break the deadlock first?

Cesar Azpilicueta of Atletico de Madrid competes for the ball with Raphinha of FC Barcelona during the Copa del Rey semifinal match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 02, 2025 in Madrid, Spain

Apr 2, 2025, 7:53 PM

21' | Kounde misses the target

Yamal with a scoop over the top for Koune to make a run and enter the box. 

However, Kounde could not control the volley as it went over the goal. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:52 PM

19' | Chance missed by Torres

That was a huge missed opportunity for Ferran. Pedri found Raphinha with a cute pass. Raphinha then played a small pass to Ferran. 

However, he could not take the chance after a poor first touch, and Atletico Madrid defenders had it covered. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:47 PM

15' | Lopez tries to sneak in

Fermin Lopez, who is playing in the place of injured Dani Olmo, tried to sneak in a pass from the edge of the box. However, Atletico Madrid defenders had it covered. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:45 PM

13' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Rodrigo de Paul for a foul on Raphinha. Already, two Ateltico players are on a caution. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:44 PM

12' | Yamal misses the target

A beautiful pass from Pedri and a quick cutback from Yamal before he went for a curling shot from the left. 

He missed the far post by a whisker. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:43 PM

9' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Atletico Madrid head coach Simeone for descent. 

Atletico de Madrid v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey | Yellow card for Atletico Madrid head coach Simeone for descent.

Apr 2, 2025, 7:42 PM

7' | VAR check for a potential red card

Apr 2, 2025, 7:39 PM

5' | Yellow card

Yellow card for Azpilicueta for a foul on Raphinha. Raphinha is down on the ground after the challenge from the former Chelsea defender. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:38 PM

5' | Chance for Atletico

Just after the Yamal pass, we see Atletico making a counter attack and that allowed Julian Alvarez to make a cross from the right. 

However, there was no red and white shirt at the far post to take advantage. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:37 PM

4' | Stunning pass from Yamal

I think I will have to keep saying his name throughout the match. 

Yamal with a side of the boot pass for Raphinha at the front of the box. But, Azpilicueta came in rescue for Atletico. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:34 PM

2' | Nearly an own goal

Cubarsi with a long ball for Lmaine Yamal to make the run on the right. 

Yamal went for the cross for Torres, but Giménez came in between. His deflection went straight to Musso. 

Apr 2, 2025, 7:32 PM

Kick off!

Here we go in Madrid!

Barcelona, in their away jersey, starts things off!

Apr 2, 2025, 7:27 PM

He is back

Apr 2, 2025, 7:24 PM

HE IS READY TOO

Apr 2, 2025, 7:10 PM

Getting ready

Apr 2, 2025, 7:04 PM

Lineups | Barcelona

Starting XI: W. Szczęsny, J. Koundé, P. Cubarsí, I. Martínez, A. Balde, F. de Jong, F. López, Pedri, L. Yamal, F. Torres, Raphinha.

Subs: Iñaki Peña, Diego Kochen, Gerard Martín, Eric García, Ronald Araújo, Hector Fort, Gavi, Pablo Torre, Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati, Pau Víctor.

Apr 2, 2025, 7:02 PM

Lineups | Atletico de Madrid

Starting XI: J. Musso, M. Llorente, C. Azpilicueta, J. M. Giménez, R. Le Normand, R. Mandava, G. Simeone, P. Barrios, R. de Paul, J. Álvarez, A. Griezmann.

Subs: Jan Oblak, Clément Lenglet, Javi Galán, Nahuel Molina, Axel Witsel, Rodrigo Riquelme, Koke, Thomas Lemar, Conor Gallagher, Samuel Lino, Alexander Sørloth.

Apr 2, 2025, 6:18 PM

Barcelona early team news!

Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final Second Leg LIVE: Cubarsi and Raphinha return to Barcelona squad | sportzpoint.com

Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha returned to the Barcelona squad for tonight's clash.

Apr 2, 2025, 6:11 PM

Last 5 Meetings: Atletico vs Barcelona

Date Result Competition
16/03/2025 Atletico 2-4 Barcelona LaLiga 2024-25
26/02/2025 Barcelona 4-4 Atletico CDR 2024-25 Semis
21/12/2024 Barcelona 1-2 Atletico LaLiga 2024-25
17/03/2024 Atletico 2-4 Barcelona LaLiga 2023-24
03/12/2023 Barcelona 1-0 Atletico LaLiga 2023-24

Apr 2, 2025, 6:10 PM

Head-to-Head Stats (All Competitions)

Matches played: 245

Atletico Madrid won: 77

Barcelona won: 111

Draws: 57

Apr 2, 2025, 4:30 PM

How to watch the match?

India: Fancode

UK: TNT Sports

Spain: RTVE Play App

Apr 2, 2025, 4:29 PM

Tonight's venue

Image

Apr 2, 2025, 4:28 PM

Match Details

Match: Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona

Tournament: Copa Del Rey 2024-25 Semi-final 2, Leg 2

Date: 3 April 2025

Time: 1:00 AM IST

Venue: Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain

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