Lionel Messi stands tall at the top of Argentina’s all time scoring list, leaving every other forward in the rearview. Who follows him, and how did the line of greats shape the national team’s history?
Argentina has a rich legacy of world class forwards. Names like Daniel Passarella, Leopoldo Luque, Mario Kempes, and Diego Maradona are part of the living memory of the national side. The era is also marked by a figure who defined a generation: Gabriel Batistuta, a striker whose goals are spoken of with reverence. Yet the latest generation has produced players who have carved their own chapters while carrying the weight of tradition on their shoulders.
In recent years the squad has seen a bright line of scorers. Messi is the unquestioned leader, and Ángel Di María remains active and high on the list, while Kun Agüero had to step away from the sport due to a heart condition. Gonzalo Higuaín completed his Argentina career in 2019 and opted to retire in October 2022. The current players continue to chase glory while honoring the long line of greats who came before them.
What national team has earned the most official titles in the world?
The following is a look at the players who have tallied the most goals for Argentina from their first international appearance through the modern era, culminating in the 2022 World Cup final against France in Qatar. The list celebrates the enduring rhythm of a squad that constantly renews itself without losing its core identity.
10. LEOPOLDO LUQUE: 22 GOALS (1975-1981)
9. DANIEL PASSARELLA: 22 GOALS (1978-1986)
8. LUIS ARTIME: 24 GOALS (1961-1967)
7. ÁNGEL DI MARÍA: 28 GOALS (2009-present)
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6. GONZALO HIGUAIN: 32 GOALS (2009-2019)
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5. DIEGO MARADONA: 34 GOALS (1977-1994)
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4. HERNAN CRESPO: 35 GOALS (1995-2006)
3. SERGIO AGÜERO: 41 GOALS (2006-2021)
2. GABRIEL OMAR BATISTUTA: 54 GOALS (1991-2002)
1. LIONEL MESSI: 99 GOALS (2005- PRESENT)
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Notes: The record reflects the official tally for the national team through the latest competitions. The list is a living record as current players may continue to add to their totals in future matches.