The 20 Greatest Goal Scorers in World Football Since 2000
Since the turn of the millennium, football has witnessed an era defined by record-breaking goal scorers. From global icons dominating the Champions League and World Cups to lesser-known strikers quietly piling up goals in lower divisions, the game has evolved with an obsession for attacking excellence.
This list ranks the 20 most prolific scorers across club and international play since the year 2000. It includes household names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—but also a few surprising entries that prove greatness isn't limited to the biggest stages.
20. Kylian Mbappé – 389 goals
Still just 26, Kylian Mbappé has already netted 389 goals for club and country, an incredible figure for someone not yet at his peak. With his explosive pace and lethal finishing, he is the clear heir to the Ronaldo-Messi era.
19. Sören Gonnermann – 390 goals
A true anomaly on this list, Gonnermann has quietly racked up 390 goals while playing in Germany’s fifth tier. His prolific scoring record over nearly two decades in the lower leagues earns him a shock spot among football's elite goal-getters.
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18. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 406 goals
Known for his blistering speed and sharp instincts, Aubameyang has found the net consistently across France, Germany, England, and Spain. He’s one of Africa’s top scorers of the modern era.
17. Samuel Eto’o – 409 goals
A Champions League winner and Cameroonian legend, Eto’o was a world-class finisher with a knack for big goals. His strikes for Barcelona and Inter cemented his place among the game's greats.
16. Romelu Lukaku – 412 goals
Lukaku has been a goal machine in England, Italy, and for Belgium, where he is the nation's all-time top scorer. His power and efficiency in front of goal have defined his career.
15. Eran Zahavi – 414 goals
Zahavi may not have played in Europe’s biggest leagues, but his goal record in Israel and China is nothing short of extraordinary. He’s a modern example of consistent brilliance in less-heralded competitions.
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14. David Villa – 426 goals
Spain’s all-time leading scorer left a trail of goals across La Liga and Major League Soccer. His intelligent movement and clinical finishing made him one of the most feared attackers of his generation.
13. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar – 427 goals
A classic No. 9, Huntelaar made his name as a lethal poacher in the Eredivisie and Bundesliga. He was a model of consistency and predatory instinct throughout the 2000s and 2010s.
12. Sergio Agüero – 434 goals
Agüero was Manchester City’s attacking heartbeat for a decade, winning titles and scoring iconic goals. Despite his career being cut short due to health issues, his impact is undeniable.
11. Edin Džeko – 437 goals
Džeko has quietly amassed goals in Germany, England, and Italy, becoming one of the most reliable strikers in Europe. He’s also Bosnia and Herzegovina’s all-time leading scorer.
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10. Hulk – 441 goals
Physically dominant and technically gifted, Hulk terrorized defenders in Portugal, Russia, and Asia. His thunderous left foot helped him build a reputation as one of the most entertaining scorers.
9. Neymar – 450 goals
Often overshadowed by Messi and Ronaldo, Neymar has still produced elite-level goal tallies for both Brazil and his clubs. Injuries have slowed him down, but his flair and creativity remain elite.
8. Edinson Cavani – 458 goals
Uruguay’s joint top scorer has been a consistent threat in Italy and France. Known for his tireless work rate and clever movement, Cavani was a striker who never stopped running—or scoring.
7. Harry Kane – 479 goals
Kane has evolved from a late-bloomer to one of the best pure strikers of his generation. He’s Tottenham’s all-time leading scorer and a key figure for England.
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6. Karim Benzema – 498 goals
Once overshadowed at Real Madrid, Benzema eventually emerged as their attacking leader. His all-around game and longevity make him one of the most complete forwards of the modern era.
5. Zlatan Ibrahimović – 564 goals
One of football’s great characters and talents, Ibrahimović scored goals in every league he played. His confidence was as towering as his goal tally, and he delivered spectacularly wherever he went.
4. Luis Suárez – 575 goals
Fierce, relentless, and brilliantly skilled, Suárez was a nightmare for defenders. From Ajax to Liverpool to Barcelona, he scored in bunches and played with unmatched intensity.
3. Robert Lewandowski – 694 goals
Lewandowski redefined consistency in front of goal. Whether with Bayern or Barcelona, he combined physicality, intelligence, and finishing prowess at a truly elite level.
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2. Lionel Messi – 882 goals
The magician from Rosario has thrilled fans for over two decades. With jaw-dropping goals, assists, and records, Messi’s left foot has written a golden chapter in football history.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 945 goals
The ultimate goal machine, Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list with a staggering 945 goals. He has scored in every competition, in every country, and continues to defy time with his drive and professionalism.
