African football has seen its fair share of goal-scoring legends, players who have thrilled fans with their talent and made their nations proud on the international stage.
In this article, we rank the top 10 African players with the most international goals, celebrating their incredible achievements.
1. Godfred Chitalu – 79 Goals
Zambian legend Godfred Chitalu remains Africa’s highest scorer at the international level with an astonishing 79 goals. Chitalu was known for his prolific scoring ability, netting goals consistently for the Zambian national team over a decade. His nickname, “Ucar,” was a testament to his unrelenting pace and endurance on the field. He represented Zambia in several African Cup of Nations tournaments, leaving a legacy that endures to this day.
2. Kinnah Phiri (Malawi) – 71 Goals
Hailing from Malawi, Kinnah Phiri was a striking force during his playing days. With 71 goals for his country, Phiri dominated African football throughout the 1970s. His goal-scoring prowess made him a household name in African football history. Though Malawi didn’t enjoy as much global recognition as other African nations, Phiri’s talent stood out on the international stage.
3. Hossam Hassan (Egypt) – 68 Goals
Egyptian icon Hossam Hassan is celebrated not only for his incredible goal tally of 68 goals but also for being a part of Egypt’s football dominance on the continent. Hassan’s leadership as captain helped guide Egypt to three Africa Cup of Nations titles. His precision in front of goal and his dedication on the field cemented his place as one of Egypt’s greatest ever players.
4. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) – 65 Goals
Ivory Coast’s Didier Drogba is a household name in world football. With 65 international goals, Drogba led his country through multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and helped Ivory Coast qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2006. Known for his physicality, leadership, and deadly finishing, Drogba’s international success mirrored his accomplishments at the club level, particularly with Chelsea.
5. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – 57 Goals
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Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah continues to make waves, both in the English Premier League and for his national team. With 57 international goals, Salah has been instrumental in Egypt’s modern football success. His blistering pace and finishing have made him a global football icon. Salah, still active, has the potential to climb higher in the ranks as he continues to represent his country.
6. Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – 56 Goals
Cameroonian legend Samuel Eto’o was renowned for his sharp instincts in front of goal, scoring 56 times for his national team. Eto’o led Cameroon to two Africa Cup of Nations titles and an Olympic gold medal in 2000. His international career was decorated with important goals that often came at crucial moments for the Indomitable Lions.
7. Asamoah Gyan (Ghana) – 51 Goals
Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan holds the record for the most goals by an African player at the FIFA World Cup and has netted 51 times for his national team. Gyan’s agility, technique, and penchant for scoring under pressure made him a standout player during his prime. His achievements on the world stage have solidified his place in African football history.
8. Ben Badi (Ivory Coast) – 49 Goals
Ben Badi of Ivory Coast was another goal-scoring machine, contributing 49 goals to his national team’s cause. Though not as internationally renowned as some of his contemporaries, Badi’s influence in Ivorian football cannot be understated, as he was pivotal in his nation’s football development during his era.
9. Edward Acquah (Ghana) – 45 Goals
Edward Acquah, a legend in Ghanaian football, scored 45 goals for the Black Stars during the 1950s and 60s. He played a significant role in Ghana’s early football success, contributing to their first African Cup of Nations win in 1963. Acquah’s legacy endures as one of the pioneers of goal-scoring for the Black Stars.
10. Alex Chola (Zambia) – 43 Goals
Zambian football legend Alex Chola rounds off the top 10 with 43 international goals. Chola’s skill and consistency for the Zambian national team earned him recognition as one of the greatest African players of his generation. His ability to score from almost any position on the field made him a constant threat to opponents.
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