Top 10 African Footballers With the Most International Goals of All Time

With football being the most popular sport in Africa, the continent has been graced by some of the most prolific goal-scorers in the history of the game.

Not only have some of these players become national heroes for their nations because of their clinical nature, they have also cemented their status on the global stage.

takes a look at  the top 10 African footballers with the most International goals of all time.

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Top 10 African Footballers With the Most International Goals of All Time

10. Alex Chola (Zambia) – 43 Goals

The first of two players of the list, Alex Chola scored 43 goals for the national team.

Known for his creativity and clinical nature, Chola was a key figure in Zambian football during the 1980s. His contributions to the national team and club career for Mufulira Blackpool and before becoming Dynamos coach and winning the Coach of the Year award in 1992. 

Chola died in a plane crash off the coast of Gabon on 27 April 1993.

9. Roger Milla (Cameroon) – 43 Goals

is a name that resonates with many football fans worldwide, considering his iconic corner flag celebration during the effectively made players start expressing themselves more often upon finding the back of the net.

The Cameroon great scored 43 goals for the

His longevity and ability to perform at the highest level, even in his 40s, remain a testament to his greatness.

8. Abdoulaye Traoré (Ivory Coast) – 50 Goals

Abdoulaye Traore, more known as “Ben Badi” was a prolific goalscorer for the amassing 50 international goals for the Elephants.

Ben Badi played a crucial role in the Elephant’s Success during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

 His technical skills and composure in front of goal made him a fan favorite.

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7. Asamoah Gyan (Ghana) – 51 Goals

Ghana’s is the highest-scoring African international among active players.

Having scored 51 goals for the , Gyan has been a consistent performer for his nation.

His memorable performances at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, especially the former version in South Africa, solidified his place as one of Africa’s finest strikers.

6. Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – 56 Goals

is considered by many to be Africa’s greatest player of all time, having won four player of the year titles.

He scored 56 goals for Cameroon, and his sharp instincts and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him a standout player.

Eto’o led Cameroon to two Africa Cup of Nations titles, as well as an Olympic gold medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. 

His contributions to the Indomitable Lions’ success are etched in African football history.

5. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – 57 Goals

Liverpool icon continues to leave fans amazed with his incredible performances the Older he gets.

Having netted 57 international goals and counting, Salah has been a key figure in Egypt’s modern football success. 

His blistering pace, and ability to cut inside from the right wing on his stronger left foot  have made him a global sensation. As an active player, Salah has the potential to climb higher on this list.

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4. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) – 65 Goals

legend scored 65 goals for the Ivory Coast. Known for his physicality, team-play leadership, and lethal finishing, Drogba was instrumental in leading his nation to its first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2006. 

His contributions extended beyond the pitch, as he played a significant role in uniting his country during times of political unrest.

3. Hossam Hassan (Egypt) – 68 Goals

Another Egyptian on the list, Hossam Hassan is a name synonymous with Egyptian football. 

During his spel for the, he scored 68 goal, and played a pivotal role in the country’s dominance in African football.

 As a captain, he led his team to three Africa Cup of Nations titles, cementing his status as a national hero. 

2. Kinnah Phiri (Malawi) – 71 Goals

Malawi’s Kinnah Phiri was a dominant force in African football during the 1970s. With 71 international goals, Phiri showcased his exceptional talent and goal-scoring prowess. 

Despite Malawi’s limited success on the global stage, Phiri’s individual brilliance elevated the nation’s footballing reputation. His ability to find the back of the net consistently earned him a place among Africa’s greatest.

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1. Godfrey Chitalu (Zambia) – 79 Goals

Godfrey Chitalu 

Affectionately known as "Ucar," Godfrey Chitalu  remains Africa’s all-time leading international goal-scorer. Representing Zambia, Chitalu netted an astonishing 79 goals in 108 appearances.

 His relentless pace, sharp instincts, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders. Chitalu’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Zambian football history, and his contributions to the national team during the 1970s remain unparalleled.

The achievements of these footballers go beyond their goal tallies. They have inspired generations of players and fans, showcasing the immense talent that Africa has to offer. 

Their contributions to their respective national teams have brought pride and joy to their nations, and their legacies continue to influence the next wave of African football stars.

As African football continues to grow, the impact of these legends will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.