Here are the top five football players with the most goals in the ongoing UEFA Euro 2024. Dani Olmo is now the joint-top scorer of the tournament with 3 goals.
The UEFA Euro 2024 is proving to be a brilliant tournament. The Semi-Finals are set to be played on the 10th and 11th of July with the final on the 15th of July. We have already seen many big teams exiting early from the competition. Some of the best players in Europe represent their nations in this competition and compete to claim the prestigious title. However, the fans have seen some returning home after failing to progress further. Let's look at the top 5 players with the most goals in the 2024 UEFA Euro competition.
The Golden Boot is awarded to the player who scores the most goals in the tournament. If there are multiple players with the same number of goals, the winner is decided by the most number of assists. In the Euro 2020, Cristiano Ronaldo (five goals, one assist) edged out Czech striker Patrik Schick (five goals, no assists) to win the Golden Boot award.
If the top scorers also have equal assists, the winner will be the player with the fewest total minutes in the tournament. In Euro 2012, Spainโs Fernando Torres (189 minutes) beat Mario Gomez of Germany (282 minutes) in the Golden Boot race after both scored three goals and one assist each.
Top 5 Goalscorers of UEFA Euro 2024
Cody Gakpo | 3 goals & 1 assist | Netherlands
The Netherlands are in the semi-final of the UEFA Euro 2024 and lots of credit should go to Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. He has been very influential in the Netherlands' path to the semis. Gakpo has scored 3 goals and 1 assist after appearing in 5 games until now and can extend his tally in the semi-final game against England.
His three goals in five games make him the joint-top goalscorer in the tournament. An offside call denied him a second goal in the 3-0 win over Romania in the last 16. He also set up Donyell Malen for the Netherlands' second goal in that game.
Georges Mikautadze | 3 goals & 1 assist | Georgia
Georgian striker Georges Mikautadze shined at the UEFA Euro 2024, registering three goals and one assist in four games at the tournament. It's no surprise that interest from top leagues has been attached to the forward. The striker was very impressive for Georgia in the Euros and helped them reach the knockout stages of the competition. He also scored in the last group-stage game against Portugal which helped Georgia for the Round of 16.
Ivan Schranz | 3 goals | Slovakia
Ivan Schranz had a great UEFA Euro 2024 campaign with Slovakia as he helped the team qualify for the knockouts of the competition. He even scored the opener against England in the Round of 16 but was unfortunately knocked out of the competition. The SK Slavia Prague forward scored 3 goals after appearing in 4 games for Slovakia.
Jamal Musiala | 3 goals | Germany
The hosts Germany's run in the Euro 2024 came to an end following a 2-1 extra-time defeat against Spain in the Quarter-Final. Jamal Musiala played beautiful football for his nation and scored 3 goals in 5 appearances. The 21-year-old Musiala is certainly living up to the hype, helping his side to win against big opponents on the big stage. With a combination of brilliant finishing ability, creativity, and pace, Musiala has all the attributes to provide a major attacking threat.
Dani Olmo | 3 goals and 2 assists | Spain
Dani Olmois having a sensational campaign with Spain. He is not only helping his side with his goals and assists but his workrate is unmatchable. Despite not being the starter, Olmo is still on the list and is the front-runner to finish at the top.
When Pedri was subbed off due to an injury in the quarter-final against Germany, Olmo got the opportunity to come in and he dropped a stellar performance, scoring a stunner and providing the assist which eventually decided Spain's fortune. The RB Leipzig forward has already scored 3 goals and provided 2 assists in the Euro 2024 for La Roja. Not only that, all of his goals came in the knockouts of the Euro 2024.
Portugal announces squad for UEFA Nations League Quarter-finals: Featuring stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes
Portugal announces their squad for the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, featuring stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias, and Bernando Silva along with rising stars like Joao Neves and Geovany Quenda.
Sporting CP's teenage striker Geovany Quenda has also earned a callup for the first time. Coach Roberto Martinez said about Geovany Quenda, "At 17, being in the National team shows his potential."
After a long absence, defender Ruben Dias has returned to the Portuguese national squad for its upcoming knockout tie against Denmark.
Expectedly, this list includes stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Rui Silva, Diogo Costa. On the other hand, some of the rising stars like Geovany Quenda and Joao Neves will power the squad depth for the 2019 Europa League winners.
Portugal will face Denmark in a two-legged matchup in the UEFA Nations League Quarter-finals. The first leg will be hosted in Copenhagen, and the return leg will be at home for Portugal, set to take place in Lisbon.
The first leg is scheduled to be played on March 21st, whereas the return leg will be played on March 24th, 2025.
10 most successful African Players with most goals in the UEFA Champions League
Explore the top 10 African players with the most goals in UEFA Champions League history, featuring legends like Mohamed Salah, Didier Drogba, and Samuel Eto'o.
The UEFA Champions League is the pinnacle of club football, boasting the best talent from around the globe. Over the years, African players have made a significant impact on Europe's elite competition, with many of them showcasing their skills but also finding the back of the net consistently.
From legendary strikers to dynamic wingers, this article highlights the top 10 African players with the most goals in Champions League history, celebrating their remarkable achievements on the grandest stage of European football.
10 most successful African Players with most goals in the UEFA Champions League:
Rank
Player
Country
Goals
1
Mohamed Salah
Egypt
50
2
Didier Drogba
Ivory Coast
44
3
Samuel Eto'o
Cameroon
30
4
Sadio Mane
Senegal
27
5
Riyad Mahrez
Algeria
20
6
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Gabon
17
7
Seydou Doumbia
Ivory Coast
15
8
Vincent Aboubakar
Cameroon
14
9
Rabah Madjer
Algeria
12
10
Sebastien Haller
Ivory Coast
12
10. Sebastian Haller| 12 Goals | Ivory Coast:
Image Credit: Talk Sports
While the Ivorian found the net just 10 times in 48 games for the Hammers, he experienced a career revival at Ajax, netting an impressive 32 times in 50 games. Sebastian Haller made his Champions League debut in the 2021-22 season, scoring in his first seven games in the competition, including four in his debut against Ruben Amorimโs Sporting. Haller scored just one more UEFA Champions League goal and was given just 10 minutes in the German sideโs 2024 final defeat to Real Madrid.
9. Rabah Madjer | Algeria | 12 Goals:
Image Credit: Pinterest
Madjer is considered one of the best players in the history of Algerian football and shot to renown as a Porto player in the 1980s. He scored six goals on Portoโs first UEFA Champions League winning run, including the equalizer against Bayern Munich in the final at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion. Madjer retired in 1992 and twice managed his home country, having played in their first ever World Cup in 1982.
8. Vincent Aboubakar | 14 Goals | Cameroon:
Image Credit: GOAL
Aboubakar made his UEFA Champions League debut in 2014 with Porto, scoring a goal in a 6-0 thrashing of BATE Borisov. He came back with a goal in the return fixture at home to Shakhtar and scored his first knockout goal against Basel but was an unused substitute in both quarter-final legs against Bayern Munich, including the 6-1 defeat that sent Porto out.
In the next two seasons, one spent at Porto and the other at Besiktas, Aboubakar netted six times but failed to get out of the group stage. He scored his final Champions League goals in 2017 with a brace against Monaco but was injured for the last 16 tie against Liverpool, a 5-0 defeat at the Estรกdio do Dragao.
7. Seydou Doumbia | 15 Goals | Ivory Coast:
Image Credit: ESPN
Doumbia scored 15 UEFA Champions League goals in 31 games for three different clubs in his career. He moved to Basel in 2016, scoring just once in six games before ending his European run at Sporting in the 2017-18 season. He made his debut with CSKA Moscow, scoring five times in the 2011-12 season, but never hit that height again.
6. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang | Gabon | 17 Goals:
Image Credit: Daily Sports Nigeria
Aubameyang primarily scored his goals with Dortmund, he managed just two for Chelsea, but Gabonโs all-time top scorer never made it past the UEFA Champions League quarter finals having twice exited at that stage in 2014 and 2017. Aubameyang is, however, the all-time top goal scorer in Europa League history, netting 34 times in 62 games.
5. Riyad Mahrez | Algeria | 20 Goals:
Image Credit: Manchester City News
Riyad Mahrez kicked things off with two goals in Leicesterโs opening group match against Brugge before finding the net two more times ahead of the knockouts. He played every minute of Leicesterโs knockout run but could only manage a single assist in that time.
In the 2020-21 season, Mahrez was a crucial player on Manchester Cityโs run, scoring in the quarters before three goals against PSG in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. However, he could not find the net as City lost 1-0 to Chelsea in the final. By the time of the 2023 win, Mahrez had fallen down the City pecking order and stayed on the bench for the whole of the 1-0 win against Inter.
4. Sadio Mane | Senegal | 27 Goals:
Image Credit: This is Anfield
The 2019 and 2022 African Player of the Year Mane was a talisman in Jurgen Kloppโs Liverpool rebuild. Joining in 2016, Mane along with Salah and Roberto Firmino combined to be a lethal front three with the Senegalese player scoring 10 goals in the 17-18 UEFA Champions League season, a figure only beaten by his team-mates and Cristiano Ronaldo. Moving to Bayern Munich in 2022, Mane struggled to replicate his Liverpool form but still scored three goals in the group stages before departing for Al-Nassr in 2023.
3. Samuel Eto'o | Cameroon | 30 Goals:
Image Credit: FC Barcelona
The four-time African player of the year winner, a figure only matched by Yaya Toure, scored most of his UEFA Champions League goals for Barcelona including six in their 2005-06 triumph and four in the 2008-09 win under Pep Guardiola. Moving to Inter in 2009, Etoโo became the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Champions Leagues at different clubs and played every game in the Jose Mourinho-masterminded run. Still considered by many to be the best African player of all-time, Samuel Etoโo was a deadly mix of pace and clinical finishing.
2. Didier Drogba | Ivory Coast | 44 Goals:
Image Credit: UEFA
With 10 goals in 10 finals, the Ivorian was the man for the big occasion, and he made his UEFA Champions League debut with Marseille in 2003, scoring five goals in six games. Getting his move to Chelsea the following season, Drogba hit the same number in the 2004-05 campaign but managed just one goal in seven appearances the next year.
He scored twice in the 2008 semi-final to set up a clash against rivals Manchester United, but a John Terry slip in a rain-soaked Moscow denied Chelsea their first UEFA Champions League title. But that success would come in 2012 with Drogba playing a starring role in the final.
1. Mohamed Salah | Egypt | 50 Goals:
Image Credit: Egyptian Streets
Considering he scored just three goals in his first 15 UEFA Champions League appearances, betting on Mohamed Salah to one day become the leading African goal-scorer would have seemed a waste of money back in 2016. Famously a second choice of Klopp โ the German preferred Julian Brandt โ Salah hit 10 goals in his first UEFA Champions League season at Anfield, propelling Liverpool to their first final since 2007 but an early injury caused by Sergio Ramos forced him to the sideline as Real Madrid won 3-1 in Kyiv.
Discover the 15 most decorated football clubs in the world, boasting legendary teams with the highest number of trophies, from domestic leagues to international glory.
Success in football comes in circles, as good times come and go for every club, but some clubs have had far more consistent runs than the others. Many clubs have had generations of success through each era of football and multiple competitions.
Understanding that every title, cup, and league win has a backdrop is essential. Here is the full list of the clubs boasting their trophy cabinets.
15 most decorated clubs in world football:
RANK
CLUBS
TROPHIES
NATION
1.
Al-Ahly
123
Egypt
2.
Celtic FC
119
Scotland
3.
Rangers
118
Scotland
4.
Club Nacional de Football
117
Uruguay
5.
Atletico Penarol
116
Uruguay
6.
Real Madrid
102
Spain
7.
FC Barcelona
98
Spain
8.
SL Benfica
85
Portugal
9.
FC Porto
85
Portugal
10.
Al-Faisaly
84
Saudi Arab
11.
FC Bayern Munich
83
Germany
12.
Olympiacos
80
Greece
13.
Ajax
73
Netherlands
14.
Juventus
71
Italy
15.
Manchester United
68
England
15. Manchester United | 68 Trophies | England:
Image Credit: Give Me Sport
If you say "Theatre of Dreams", "Old Trafford", or the "Busby Babes" to someone, there is only one club that comes to mind: Manchester United. The Red Devils are cementing their place in the most decorated club's hall of fame with 68 trophies, right from the Busby Babes Munich air disaster in 1958 to Sir Alex Ferguson's Class of 92. Icons like Sir Bobby Charlton to the modern heroes like Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo have clothed the famous red jersey.
While the club has struggled to reach the heights of the 1990s to 2000s in recent years, The Red Devils are one of the most successful clubs in England, winning three UEFA Champions Leagues to their name, one of the best teams to have ever played in Europe as well.
3x UEFA Champions League winner (1967-68, 1998-99, 2007-08)
1x UEFA Super Cup Winner (1991-92)
1x UEFA Europa Cup Winner (2016-17)
1x Cup Winners Cup (1990-91)
13x FA Cup Winner (23/24, 15/16, 03/04, 98/99, 95/96, 93/94, 89/90, 84/85, 82/83, 76/77, 62/63, 47/48, 1908/09)
21x English Super Cup winner (16/17, 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 08/09, 07/08, 03/04, 97/98 , 96/97, 94/95, 93/94, 90/91, 83/84, 77/78, 67/68, 65/66, 57/58, 56/57, 52/53, 1911/12, 1908/09)
6x English League Cup Winner (22/23 , 16/17 , 09/10 , 08/09 , 05/06 , 91/92)
2x English 2nd Tier Champions (74/75, 35/36)
1x Inter Continental Cup Winner (1999)
14. Juventus | 71 Trophies | Italy:
Image Credit: Dreams Time
Juventus is undoubtedly one of the most decorated clubs in world football and Italy too. From Dino Zoff to Alessandro Del Piero, this Italian heavyweight has been home to some of the biggest footballing stars ever produced, who have helped to add moments that collectively tell the tale of their 71 trophies. Not many clubs can boast about the fact that the Turin giant was formed by a group of grammar school students who turned into one of the biggest clubs in world football. A fascinating back story with a thrilling journey.
2x UEFA Champions League winners (1984-85, 1995-96)
2x UEFA Super Cup (1984-85, 1996-97)
9x Italian Super Cup Winner (20/21 , 18/19 , 15/16 , 13/14 , 12/13 , 03/04 , 02/03 , 97/98 , 95/96)
2x UEFA Cup Winner (92/93 , 89/90 , 76/77)
1x Italian Serie B Champion (2006-07)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1996, 1985)
13. Ajax | 73 Trophies | Netherlands:
Image Credit:X
Ajax are a wonderful football club, and their story is represented in as much as one word: innovation. The birthplace of 'Modern Football', their academy, De Toekomst, has been a messenger of talents. From Johan Cruyff to Frenkie de Jong. Their 73 trophies, including their European exploits, show their philosophy that prioritizes skill and vision.
The club has been massively successful in their 123-year history, winning four Champions League crowns, three of which were won in a row, as well as 36 Eredivisie crowns, which makes this club one of the most decorated clubs in world football.
Olympiacos is known to have a hugely intimidating home atmosphere when visiting teams come to their ground, the Karaiskakis Stadium. Despite only holding 33,334 fans, it's a well-known fortress for the home team. There's no doubt that they have dominated Greek football since their inception in 1925. From legendary figures to the current team, it has helped the club propel them to 80 trophies and cemented their name into one of the most decorated clubs.
4x Greek Super Cup Winner (2006/07, 91/92, 86/87, 1979/80)
1x UEFA Conference League Winner (2023-24)
11. FC Bayern Munich | 83 Trophies | Germany:
Image Credit: FCB Inside
Bayern's unparalleled streak of 11 consecutive titles came to an end in 2023-24 when the club slipped to third in Bayer Leverkusen's 'invincible' season. Vincent Kompany will be looking to change fortunes and restore Bayern to the top of German football. From their Allianz Arena, a modern-day stadium, they have showcased a brand of football that is both efficient and elegant. Bayern Munich is one of the most decorated clubs in Germany and world football too.
10x German Super Cup Winner (22/23 , 21/22 , 20/21 , 18/19 , 17/18 , 16/17 , 12/13 , 10/11 , 90/91 , 87/88)
6x League Cup Winner (07/08 , 04/05 , 00/01 , 99/00 , 98/99 , 97/98)
South German Cup Winner (1956-57)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (2001, 1976)
2X UEFA Super Cup Winner (20/21 , 13/14)
6x UEFA Champions League Winner (1975/76, 74/75, 73/74, 2019/20, 2012/13, 2000/01)
2x FIFA Club World Cup Winner (20/21, 13/14)
1x UEFA Cup Winner (1995-96)
10. Al-Faisaly | 84 Trophies | Saudi Arab:
Image Credit: The AFC
Not a familiar name in world football, but Al-Faisaly is one of the most decorated clubs in world football. In 91 years of their existence as a football club, formerly known as Al-Ashbal Club, they have won 35 league titles and 21 Jordan FA Cups, although domestic success has been more limited in recent years. The club is yet to have any success on the AFC stage.
From the banks of the Douro River, FC Porto has risen as Portugal's footballing flare and one of the most decorated clubs in world football. This is the football club that gave us players such as Deco, Ricardo Carvalho and, of course, the hero Benni McCarthy. After the 2004 season's UEFA Champions League winning campaign, Porto haven't seen any success in Europe since, they have still managed to win 30 Primeira Liga titles, 19 Taca de Portugal, two European Cups and two Europa Leagues during their 130-year history.
2x UEFA Champions League Winner (2003-04, 1986-87)
1x UEFA Super Cup Winner (1987-88)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (2004, 1987)
8. SL Benfica | 85 Trophies | Portugal:
Image Credit: SL Benfica
SL Benfica is one of the most decorated football clubs in Portugal and globally. The club has given birth to some absolute icons in the sport. Eusebio, winner of the 1965 Ballon d'Or, was representing Benfica when he achieved this phenomenal feat. Modern-day players such as Angel Di Maria, Darwin Nunez, David Luiz and Nemanja Matic are just a few names that have come and gone from the Portuguese outfit over the years. With 85 trophies, incredibly, the nation's two powerhouses are tied for trophy hauls.
2x UEFA Champions League Winner (1961/62, 1960/61)
7. FC Barcelona | 98 Trophies | Spain:
Image Credit: Mirror
There is no denying that Barcelona's most successful period was the late 2000s and into the 2010s, led by the genius Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest player to ever kick a football and helped to make one of the most decorated clubs in world football. Their 98-trophy tally does not just recount victories but also moments that changed Spanish football. Camp Nou has been the hub of 'tiki-taka' football - a poetic style, enchanting and uniquely Barcelona's.
3x Inter-Cities fair cup Winners (65/66 , 59/60 , 57/58)
6. Real Madrid | 102 Trophies | Spanish:
Image Credit: Managing Madrid
Real Madrid has made the Santiago Bernabeu a theatre of dreams for fans and a place of nightmares for rivals. Madrid boasts an astonishing 15 UEFA Champions League titles to their name, seven more than any other team has won in the competition's history. Los Blancos is the most decorated club in Spain showcasing 102 trophies.
Just missing out on the top four is one of the most decorated clubs of South American football, Atletico Penarol. Why is this club so special and represents why they have been so successful over the years, is that they have never been relegated from the top division in Uruguay since being founded in 1891. It is a witness to longevity and consistent excellence. With a total of 116 trophies, they are not just Uruguayan legends.
3x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1982 , 1966 , 1961)
4. Club Nacional de Football | 117 Trophies | Uruguay:
Image Credit: X
Club Nacional de Football tales of dominance are South American epics, which makes them the most decorated clubs in South America. However, in their long and storied 125-year history, they have won 49 Primera Division crowns in their homeland. The well-documented side from Uruguay boasts 116 trophies and is iconic in its own right.
3x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1988 , 1980 , 1971)
1x Recopa SudAmericana winner (1989)
3. Rangers |118 Trophies | Scotland:
Image Credit: Give Me Sport
Rangers have marginally fewer trophies to their city rivals Celtic with 55 Scottish first-tier League Championships since 1890 and that's why they are the second most decorated clubs in Scottish Premiership. With their home one of the most famous stadiums in the British Isles in the form of Ibrox, it is no wonder they have managed such glory when they can create such an atmosphere.
Celtic Park, also known as Parkhead, and renowned for its thrilling atmosphere, has seen countless memories created in the club's 137-year history. Because of their dominance, they are the most decorated club in Scottish football. Celtic were the first club in Great Britain to win the European Cup.
Al-Ahly tops this list and becomes the most decorated club in world football with 123 trophies. With a legacy stretching back to 1907 and 123 trophies to their name, they are more than Egyptian legends; they are global titans. They have won 43 Egyptian Premier League titles, 39 Egypt Cups, 12 CAF Champions Leagues, 14 Egyptian Super Cups, eight CAF Super Cups and four African Cup Winners' Cups, just to name a few. They are essentially the African version of Real Madrid and continue to dominate Egyptian domestic football to this day.
The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario: Check out the team
Explore the greatest football XI of all time, chosen by legendary striker Ronaldo Nazรกrio. Discover his ultimate dream team, featuring football icons and unforgettable talent on the pitch.
Former Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazario, 'the phenomenon' named some of his colleagues, footballing legends and icons among his list of the 11 best players ever. Former Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Juventus stars are on the list.
In this special article, we explore the greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario.
The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo:
Pele
Lionel Messi
Diego Maradona
Zico
Romario
Cristiano Ronaldo
Marco Van Basten
Zinedine Zidane
Luis Figo
Rivaldo
Ronaldinho
1. Pele
(Image Credit: GOAL.com)
Ronaldo Nazario grew up in Brazil in the 80s, it is not a surprise that he picked Pele. While Ronaldo Nazario was too young to watch Pele play live, his legacy is still to this day within the football world. For many Brazilians, Pele will always be the Greatest of all time.
2. Lionel Messi
Image Credit: GOAL.com
Ronaldo has often spoken highly of the Argentine forward, and it is not a surprise that he named Lionel Messi as one of the best players of all time.
Ronaldo Nazario said the following during an interview in 2020:
Messi is out of this world. Heโs great. I like him much more than any other player. Everything he does is spectacular.
3. Diego Maradona
Image Credit: The Boston Globe
Ronaldo was born in 1976; he would have seen Diego Maradona in action during his development years and it is no surprise that the Argentine genius made such an impression on him. In reverse, Diego Maradona was always very complimentary of Ronaldo.
In 2018, Maradona said:
โIf it were not for the injuries, Ronaldo would have been the best of all time.โ
4. Zico
Image Credit: The Football Times
Zico spent the majority of his career playing in his native country for Flamengo. He enjoyed a brief spell in Europe with Udinese but only spent two years playing in Italy before he returned to Brazil.
The Former Brazilian midfielder also earned 71 caps for Brazil and scored 48 goals on the international stage. Despite never winning the World Cup, he is still considered one of the greatest players in the countryโs history.
5. Romario
Image Credit: Planet Football
Ronaldo played a total of 19 games alongside Romario for Brazil and the pair combined for 12 goals during their time together.
Ronaldo told Bobo TV during an interview in 2022.
In 1997, I was an important player already. I had already won the Ballon dโOr.
During the training retreat for the Copa America, Romario suddenly told me: โGet ready, we go out tonight, donโt worry.โ
He had prepared a ladder to climb over the hotelโs wall and there was a taxi waiting for us on the other side.
We returned at five am and I was exhausted the following day in training. I understood that Romario did it on purpose to tire me out and take my spot in the starting XI.
6. Cristiano Ronaldo
Image Credit: Managing Madrid
While Ronaldo Nazario neglected Cristiano Ronaldo from his three greatest players of all time, he still names the Portuguese forward in his best XI.
Ronaldo Nazario told ESPN:
Cristiano has an incredible career; he has scored in every way possible and successfully adapted to different positions. He is undoubtedly one of the best, but not the greatest.
7. Marco Van Basten:
Image Credit: Soccer News
There can be no denying that the three-time Ballon dโOr winner ranks among the greatest players of all time. At club level, the Dutchman scored a whopping 283 goals in just 379 appearances for Ajax and AC Milan. Like Ronaldo, Van Basten had to retire his career short because of injuries.
8. Zinedine Zidane
Image Credit: Sportskeeda
During their time together at Real Madrid, Ronaldo played 139 games alongside Zinedine Zidane and the pair combined for 31 goals during that time. Considered by many to be the greatest midfielder of all time, it is no surprise that the Frenchman cuts into Ronaldoโs elite list.
9. Luis Figo
Image Credit: Barca Universal
Ronaldo shared a close bond with Luis Figo during his playing days as the pair played alongside each other at Barcelona and Real Madrid. In fact, throughout Ronaldo Nazario's career, only Iker Casillas and Roberto Carlos played more games with him than Figo played.
The former Portuguese winger won 22 trophies throughout his career and undoubtedly ranks as one of the best players of his generation.
10. Rivaldo
Image Credit: GOAL.com
Rivaldo was also recognized by Nazario as one of the best players of all time. Former Brazilian international won the Ballon d'Or in 1999. While they never played together at club level, they did make 46 appearances alongside each other when playing for the national team.
11. Ronaldinho
Image Credit: X
The last name that Ronaldo gave when naming the best players of all time was Ronaldinho. A fellow Ballon dโOr and World Cup winner, this list would feel incomplete without the legendary attacking midfielder. The pair made 39 appearances together for Brazil and won the World Cup and Copa America together.
Real Sociedad vs Manchester United Highlights UEFA Europa League 2024-25 | Manchester United Held by Real Sociedad After Confident Oyarzabal Penalty Round of 16 First Leg | FT RSO 1-1 MUN
Catch the highlights of the Real Sociedad vs Manchester United RO16 First Leg match tonight in UEL 2024-25 at the Anoeta Stadium, Spain.
Hello and welcome to another LIVE coverage of European football. Tonight, we will bring you all the live updates, news, and live scores of the UEFA Europa League 2024-25Round of 16 First Leg face-off between Real Sociedad and Manchester United at the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastiรกn, Spain.
Real Sociedad advanced to the RO16 by thrashing FC Midtjylland 7-3 over two legs in the Europa League play-offs. Manchester United, on the contrary, are the only team that finished unbeaten in the league phase, positioned third on the leaderboard with 18 points in 8 matches.
Both teams are about to go against each other in an important match of the European campaign, setting up a fierce encounter. So, sit back and relax as Swastik Debnath and Soumit Bhattacharya get you the buildup, news, images, live scores, news, and updates of the Real Sociedad vs Manchester United match from our webdesk.
Moreover, you can follow us on Twitter for all the updates. Join our Telegram and WhatsApp channels to get all the news and scorelines.
Don't forget to refresh the page for latest updates. Enjoy the coverage!
LIVE Updates
Mar 6, 2025, 7:52 PM
Thank You and Stay Tuned!
This is it for this game.
Hope you enjoyed the Live match.
We will be back very soon with another Live.
Good Night, Stay Tuned!
Mar 6, 2025, 7:51 PM
Final Verdict
In a tightly contested match, Real Sociedad and Manchester United shared the spoils, with Joshua Zirkzee showcasing his skill with a brilliant goal in the 57th minute. However, the game took a dramatic turn when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a controversial penalty in the 70th minute, leveling the scoreline. The penalty decision will undoubtedly spark debate, but both sides ultimately deserved a point from this hard-fought encounter.
Mar 6, 2025, 7:44 PM
FULL TIME WHISTLE BLOWS! RSO 1-1 MUN
We're held to a draw in San Sebastian but it's all to play for in the second leg ๐#MUFC || #UEL
โ Real Sociedad Fรบtbol (@RealSociedad) March 6, 2025
Mar 6, 2025, 7:15 PM
68' | Potential VAR Check
A penalty shout in the United's box and the referee awarded the penalty as he confirmed Bruno Fernandes' hand ball.
Mar 6, 2025, 7:13 PM
64' | Change for Sociedad
IN: Pablo Marin
OUT:Beรฑat Turrientes
Mar 6, 2025, 7:12 PM
63' | Substitutions for Sociedad!
IN: Orri รskarsson, Jon Aramburu
OUT: Ander Barrenetxea, Aritz Elustondo
Mar 6, 2025, 7:06 PM
57' | GOALLL!!! RSO 0-1 MUN
The Red Devils take the lead. What an exceptional strike by Zirkzee. Garnacho makes a crucial pass into the box for Zirkzee, and his left-footed shot is strong enough to net the ball.
Zubeldia commits a foul on Hojlund, and the referee shows a yellow card to him
Mar 6, 2025, 6:54 PM
47' | Great defending by De Ligt!
Kubo crosses a beautiful ball from the right side of the pitch into the final third, but De Ligt blocks the cross.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:50 PM
46' | Second half Begins!
Real Sociedad 0-0 Manchester United
Mar 6, 2025, 6:40 PM
Hart-time verdict | HT RSO 0-0 MUN
Both teams were organised in an intense half of few chances, with a Garnacho effort from long range and a Zirkzee back-heel among United's attempts. The visitors twice looked dangerous from counterattacks โ a threat Real Sociedad will be wary of.
via Juan Dรญaz, UEL Reporter
Mar 6, 2025, 6:34 PM
45'+3' | The half-time whistle is blown! | HT RSO 0-0 MUN
Mar 6, 2025, 6:34 PM
45'+2' | Onana punches it away
Onana rose above the crowd and punched the ball away, clearing a looming threat from Sociedad.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:31 PM
45' | 3 minutes of added time confirmed
Mar 6, 2025, 6:31 PM
45' | Chance for Sociedad
Sucic was about to strike the ball from close to the goal, but the ball soared outside wide off the far post.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:29 PM
42' | Remiro collects it easily
Following a long ball by Bruno Fernandes from down the middle, Dalot powered a header on target, but Remiro made a routine collection.
Two on-target chances already for the Red Devils, but no goals whatsoever.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:25 PM
37' | That was close for United!
Garnacho and Dalot combined up on the right, resulting in Dalot finding Bruno in the middle of the box, but the United skipper's left-footed effort while going down was denied by Elustondo on the line!
Zirkzee found the second ball but fired it wide off the target!
Mar 6, 2025, 6:21 PM
34' | Chance for Sociedad
Kubo tried to find a channel in search of delivering a cross from the right, but United's defence forced the attack to end up in a corner.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:18 PM
30' | Two quarters are up!
In the last five minutes, the only noteworthy thing that happened is Dorgu getting a little bit uncomfortable, creating tension on the United bench. However, he is well and back on the pitch after receiving medical attention.
The game is now mostly being played in the middle of the park.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:12 PM
25' | The game has slowed down
It has been a slow approach from both sides in the last couple of minutes, culminating the game into a slow progression.
It's been a game of minimal chances so far, with La Real creating 0.07 expected goals (xG) and Man Utd producing 0.06.
More actions are yet to come!
Mar 6, 2025, 6:07 PM
20' | Off target for Dorgu
Garnacho was quickly covered by three of the opposition defenders inside the box, and he channeled a pass to Dorgu on the left. However, Dorgu cut inside and skied his shot way over the crosspiece.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:05 PM
18' | Wide from Turrientes
Turrientes slid past Bruo Fernandes and a Casmiro who threw a tackle; but his grounded shot went wide off the far post.
Mar 6, 2025, 6:03 PM
16' | Good collection from Onana
Barrenetxea floated a ball into the penalty area, hoping for the trigger strikers to anticipate it for a header, but Onana came up and collected it.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:59 PM
12' | Save from Remiro
Dorgu and Garnacho combined inside the box for an attempt at goal, but the Argentine's curling effort from the left was well-claimed by the Sociedad custodian.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:56 PM
9' | Effort from Hojlund
Hojlund might have created something out of the attack from te right flank, but the United forward got his heel clipped, extending the wait for a better opportunity to come.
Mar 6, 2025, 5:52 PM
5' | United stay alert
The hosts fiercely started the game, pressing upwards on the United defence. However, the Red Devils stayed alert in scanning the cross from the left, and blocking the shot afterwards.
โ UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) March 5, 2025
Mar 6, 2025, 2:40 PM
Last 5 meetings | Real Sociedad vs Man United
United defeated Sociedad 1-0 in the Anoeta in their last meeting. (Image Credit | The Independent)
Competition
Date
Home Team
Score
Away Team
UEFA Europa League
2022/11/03
Real Sociedad
0 - 1
Manchester United
UEFA Europa League
2022/09/09
Manchester United
0 - 1
Real Sociedad
UEFA Europa League
2021/02/26
Manchester United
0 - 0
Real Sociedad
UEFA Europa League
2021/02/18
Real Sociedad
0 - 4
Manchester United
UCL
2013/11/06
Real Sociedad
0 - 0
Manchester United
UCL
2013/10/24
Manchester United
1 - 0
Real Sociedad
Mar 6, 2025, 2:36 PM
Head-to-head stats (All Competitions)
Real Sociedad have won just one of their previous six European encounters against Manchester United (D2 L3), with that win coming in the group stage of this competition at Old Trafford in September 2022. They won that game 1-0 courtesy of a Brais Mรฉndez penalty, which remains their only goal against them.
Real Sociedad have never beaten an English side on home soil in Europe (D1 L3), failing to score in each of the last three matches (all against Man Utd). They are, however, one of six sides to score in 100% of their UEFA Europa League games this season (10/10), with Man Utd also doing so (8/8).
Man Utd have lost just one of their last eight away games against Spanish opposition in Europe (W5 D2), however that defeat did come in their most recent such encounter, losing 3-0 at Sevilla in the second leg of the 2022-23 UEFA Europa League quarter final.
Matches played: 6
Real Sociedad won: 1
Man United won: 3
Draws: 2
Mar 6, 2025, 2:32 PM
Tonight's Venue | Anoeta Stadium
Mar 6, 2025, 2:30 PM
How to watch the match?
The match will be streamed Live on the Sony Liv app and website. Viewers can also watch the game live on TV on Sony Sports Network.
Mar 6, 2025, 2:30 PM
Match Details
Match: Real Sociedad vs Manchester United
Tournament: UEFA Europa League 2024-25 Round of 16 tie, First Leg
Follow Us
/sportzpoint/media/media_files/WiOzhuuAvEXhthrnkHtC.webp)
/sportzpoint/media/media_files/XCYJyhAmqUHk9ie4kSTq.jpg)
/sportzpoint/media/media_files/EnwYqvFgBDqr6UZDmodY.webp)
/sportzpoint/media/media_files/zmQP3aSUsjPvZ1RJevz6.jpg)
/sportzpoint/media/media_files/1DCPS9zOrmcup8peREqP.jpg)
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11434517/963082416.jpg.jpg)
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59865493/962792726.jpg.0.jpg)
