Did you know Indian footballer Sunil Chhetri, UAE’s Ali Mabkhout feature on world’s top scorer list after Ronaldo, Messi?
When thinking of football greats and their records, two very prominent names come to mind – Ronaldo and Messi. So, it comes as no surprise to know that they hold the records for the highest number of international goals scored among active footballers.
However, believe it or not, the next two positions on the top scoring list are held by none other than the captain of the Indian national team Sunil Chhetri and UAE’s own star forward Ali Mabkhout, according to the official Olympics website.
Take a look at the rankings below:
| Rank | Name | Goals | Matches |
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | 123 | 200 |
| 2 | Lionel Messi | 103 | 175 |
| 3 | Sunil Chhetri | 92 | 142 |
| 4 | Ali Mabkhout | 81 | 109 |
| 5 | Robert Lewandowski | 79 | 142 |
Sunil Chhetri
Earlier this week, the Indian football team beat Kuwait to bag the South Asian Football Federation cup. After India equalised with Kuwait, Chhetri led the team to a resounding success with 5-4 on penalties.
The star footballer also made headlines earlier this week for his generosity. After winning the SAFF cup for the second year consecutively, CChhetri was was seen taking the cup and handing it over to his teammates and before walking away – letting them celebrate the success.
Chhetri’s ranking on the global list is even more impressive considering cricket-crazy India’s still-nascent football scene. However, interest is certainly growing and this was evident at the SAFF final, which saw a tear-jerking moment as over 20,000 fans in the Bengaluru stadium sang ‘Vande Mataram’, cheering the Indian team.
Several videos of the scene have gone viral, many of them showing the Indian team singing along with the crowd.
Ali Mabkhout
The UAE’s top goal-scorer, Ali Mabkhout, plays centre-forward for the national team.
Last year, the reliable footballer displayed his talent on the global stage while playing against Australia. The UAE national team could not beat the Aussies in the World Cup playoffs, despite constant efforts. However, Mabkhout was in the limelight throughout for his brilliant play.
The forward is a global sensation and has been playing for the Abu Dhabi club Al Jazira for over a decade.
