Top European Goalscorers: Legends of the Euros
The games for this year’s European Championship might be grabbing headlines, but have you ever wondered who has cemented their place as a top Euro scorer throughout history? Let’s delve into the archives of Euro football to find the legendary top goalscorers who have left their mark on the tournament.
Euro Kings: Top Scorers in European Championship History
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 14 Goals
Cristiano Ronaldo reigns supreme as the all-time top goalscorer in the European Championship. Across five tournaments (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020), he’s amassed a staggering 14 goals. He led Portugal to victory in 2016, solidifying his legendary status. Ronaldo consistently features among the leading scorers, even finishing joint-top scorer in 2012 and 2020.
- Michel Platini (France) – 9 Goals
Michel Platini holds the record for most goals in a single tournament, with nine in 1984. He spearheaded France’s triumph that year, scoring in every match, including back-to-back hat-tricks in the group stage. Platini’s exceptional performance cemented him as a Euro scoring legend.
- Alan Shearer (England) – 7 Goals
England might still be chasing their first major title since 1966, but Alan Shearer’s scoring prowess in the Euros is well-remembered. He bagged a Golden Boot with five goals in Euro ’96, showcasing his exceptional talent. Across three tournaments (1992, 1996, 2000), Shearer notched a total of seven goals, solidifying his place among the top Euro scorers.
- Antoine Griezmann (France) – 7 Goals
Antoine Griezmann led France to the Euro 2016 final, scoring six times and earning the tournament’s best player award. He has tallied seven goals across the 2016 and 2020 tournaments, proving his place among the elite Euro goalscorers.
- Ruud van Nistelrooy (Netherlands) – 6 Goals
A powerful forward known for his consistency, Ruud van Nistelrooy scored six goals in just two tournaments (2004 and 2008), etching his name among the top Euro scorers.
Conclusion
This list of top European Championship goalscorers goes beyond individual achievements. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry woven by these legends who have illuminated the Euros with their brilliance.
