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In the world of international football, goals are the currency of success, and 2023 has seen some remarkable goal-scoring feats.
This article puts a spotlight on the top ten players who have dazzled on the international stage, scoring the most goals for their countries this year.
From seasoned veterans rewriting the record books to emerging talents announcing their arrival on the global scene, these players have captivated fans and led their national teams with outstanding performances.
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17:10 - 28.09.2024
Cole Palmer and 9 other players with the fastest hat tricks in Premier League history
Cole Palmer joined the elites of the fastest Hattrick in the Premier League, after his 10th-minute minutes hattrick against Brighton.
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Top 10 countries with the most African Cup of Nations titles in 2024
The AFCON remains a vital part of the sporting calendar, not just in Africa but globally, as it continues to enhance the profile of African football.
We take a closer look at these exceptional goal-scorers, whose skills, precision, and knack for finding the back of the net have set them apart in 2023's international football landscape.
1. Romelu Lukaku – 15 Goals
Lukaku, the Roma striker, made a significant impact in 2023. He set a new record by scoring 14 goals during Belgium's Euro 2024 qualification, showcasing his exceptional talent and confirming his status as one of the top international strikers.
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2. Cristiano Ronaldo – 10 Goals
Ronaldo continued to prove his enduring class in 2023. Scoring 10 goals in Euro 2024 qualifiers, he extended his record as international football's all-time greatest goalscorer, demonstrating his incredible ability to find the net at the highest level.
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3. Kylian Mbappe – 10 Goals
Mbappe, after a heart-breaking World Cup final in 2022, responded with 10 goals in 2023. His impressive tally, including nine in Euro 2024 qualifying, saw him rise to third in France's all-time top scorer list.
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4. Patson Daka – 9 Goals
Daka, the top-scoring African footballer in 2023, scored nine goals in eight games for Zambia. Despite limited opportunities at Leicester City, his international form has been red-hot, signaling his potential at AFCON 2023.
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5. Harry Kane – 9 Goals
Kane, the Bundesliga's potential record-breaker, matched his club form at the international level with nine goals in 10 games. His consistency and scoring prowess continue to be vital for England.
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6. Lionel Messi – 8 Goals
Messi enjoyed a victorious 2023 with Argentina, playing a key role in their successful international run. Scoring eight goals, including a memorable free-kick against Ecuador, he remained pivotal for his national team.
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7. Jesus Ferreira – 8 Goals
Ferreira, the FC Dallas striker, boasted an impressive international record for the USA with 15 goals in 23 appearances. His seven goals in the CONCACAF Gold Cup highlight his goal-scoring ability.
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8. Ayase Ueda – 7 Goals
Ueda, Japan's rising star, scored seven goals in seven games in 2023. Making his mark in both the Belgian Pro League and on the international stage, he's a player to watch in the coming years.
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9. Scott McTominay – 7 Goals
McTominay thrived for Scotland in Euro 2024 qualifying, scoring seven goals. His versatility and unexpected goal-scoring form have been crucial for Scotland's successful campaign.
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10. Rasmus Hojlund – 7 Goals
Hojlund, the young Manchester United forward, showed his talent on the international stage with Denmark. Scoring seven goals in Euro 2024 qualifying, he's shown why he's considered a top prospect.
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