Top 10 scorers in El Clasico history (ranked)
El Clasico has delivered drama, brilliance, and unforgettable goals since its inception in 1902. Over the years, some of the greatest footballers in history have lit up the rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 all-time scorers in El Clasico history, from number 10 to number 1.
10. Luis Suarez – 11 goals
Luis Suarez marked his El Clasico debut with an assist just minutes into the match, despite Barcelona falling 3-1 to Madrid. He saved his most memorable moment for 2018, stepping up with a hat-trick while Messi was injured. Known for his aggression and instinct, Suarez thrived in the fixture’s fiery atmosphere.
9. Santillana – 12 goals
A pillar of Real Madrid during the 70s and 80s, Santillana was the first to score in four straight league Clasicos at the Bernabeu. His goal-scoring versatility extended to multiple neutral venues, underlining his knack for turning up on big occasions. Few strikers were more dependable in this fierce rivalry.
8. Ferenc Puskas – 14 goals
Despite skepticism over his age and fitness when he joined Real Madrid, Ferenc Puskas silenced critics with sheer brilliance. He notched two Clasico hat-tricks and was instrumental in Real’s dominance, including European Cup clashes with Barcelona. His left foot and spatial awareness made him a constant threat.
Read also: The longest goal-scoring streaks in football history
7. Paco Gento – 14 goals
Dubbed the ‘quickest thing on two legs,’ Paco Gento tormented Barcelona for 18 years. With blistering pace and consistent delivery, he scored 14 goals in 45 Clasico appearances. Gento’s speed, paired with longevity, helped define an era of Real Madrid success.
6. Cesar Rodriguez – 14 goals
Cesar Rodriguez led Barcelona’s frontline long before Messi, becoming the club’s top scorer for decades. His hat-trick in a crucial 1952 win helped Barcelona tighten their grip on La Liga. A symbol of Barca’s post-war rise, Cesar delivered in the matches that mattered most.
5. Raul – 15 goals
A Real Madrid legend through and through, Raul’s name became synonymous with El Clasico. His iconic 1999 equalizer at Camp Nou, followed by a shushing celebration, remains one of the fixture’s defining moments. Over 37 appearances, he left an indelible mark on the rivalry.
4. Karim Benzema – 16 goals
Karim Benzema's intelligence and composure earned him praise beyond his goal count, yet his 16 Clasico strikes are impossible to overlook. He was particularly dominant after Ronaldo’s departure, including a stunning 2023 hat-trick at Camp Nou. Benzema quietly became one of the rivalry’s most consistent performers.
Read also: How the 2025/26 Premier League table would look without VAR errors
3. Cristiano Ronaldo – 18 goals
Cristiano Ronaldo overcame early struggles in El Clasico to become one of its biggest stars. From decisive Copa del Rey headers to dramatic goals at Camp Nou, he left no doubt about his big-game credentials. His duels with Messi defined a generation of this rivalry.
2. Alfredo Di Stefano – 18 goals
Alfredo Di Stefano wasn’t just a scorer—he was a symbol of Real Madrid’s rise to power. After a bitter transfer tug-of-war with Barcelona, he immediately delivered with a brace in a 5-0 win. His 18 goals laid the foundation for Real’s Clasico dominance during the 50s and 60s.
1. Lionel Messi – 26 goals
Lionel Messi sits alone at the top, with 26 El Clasico goals spanning iconic moments and career milestones. Whether scoring a hat-trick at 19 or silencing the Bernabeu with a last-minute winner in 2017, he owned this rivalry. No player has shaped El Clasico history quite like him.
Read also: The 14 Greatest Red Bull F1 Drivers of All Time - Ranked from Lowest to Highest
Read also: Who could replace Arne Slot at Liverpool? 8 potential candidates ranked from outsider to favourite
