Discover the leading goal scorers in men's World Cup history and how they made their mark.
The FIFA World Cup is the apex of international football, a stage where legends are born and records are etched. Among the many feats achieved at the tournament, scoring goals on the biggest stage is one of the most celebrated. Over the years, a handful of players have engraved their names in history by becoming prolific scorers across multiple World Cups.
Here, GOAL takes a deep dive into the top all-time goal scorers in FIFA World Cup history, their legendary status, and what made them unforgettable.
GettyMiroslav Klose | Germany | 16 goalsTournaments: 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014Matches Played: 24Goals per Game: 0.67
Miroslav Klose holds the record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing Ronaldo's previous record during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. A classic poacher with exceptional positioning, Klose found the net in four consecutive World Cups, ultimately winning the tournament with Germany in 2014. Notably, Klose broke Ronaldo's record during Germany's memorable 7–1 victory over Brazil in 2014.
AdvertisementGettyRonaldo Nazario | Brazil | 15 goalsTournaments: 1998, 2002, 2006Matches Played: 19Goals per Game: 0.79
was known for his explosive pace and clinical finishing, and he was instrumental in Brazil's fifth title win, scoring eight goals. His return from injury during the tournament is considered one of the most iconic comebacks in football history. He also won the Golden Boot at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Getty ImagesGerd Muller | West Germany | 14 goalsTournaments: 1970, 1974Matches Played: 13Goals per Game: 1.08
Gerd Muller, often known as "The Bomber", was an incredibly lethal striker, with an extraordinary goals-per-game ratio.
Muller was the top scorer in the 1970 World Cup and played a key role in West Germany's victory in the 1974 edition, which they won on home soil. Notably, he scored 10 goals in just six matches during the 1970 tournament alone.
Just Fontaine | France | 13 goalsTournaments: 1958Matches Played: 6Goals per Game: 2.17
Dominating the 1958 World Cup, Just Fontaine etched his name into football history by scoring an astounding 13 goals in a single tournament. This remarkable feat remains unsurpassed, holding the record for the most goals ever scored in a single World Cup and standing as a testament to his unparalleled skill and prolificacy on the sport's grandest stage.
