Who Scored the Most Goals in a Soccer Game?
, by Adam Zawati, 2 min reading time
Explore the wildest goal-scoring feats in soccer history—from a bizarre 149–0 protest match to individual scoring giants like Archie Thompson and Stefan Dembicki.
Who Scored the Most Goals in a Soccer Game?
Soccer has seen some jaw-dropping goal tallies over the years, both by individual players and entire teams. From record-setting blowouts to legendary personal performances, these games continue to amaze fans and aspiring athletes alike. Here's a breakdown of the wildest scoring feats in the sport's history.
Most Goals Scored by a Team in a Single Match
AS Adema 149–0 SO l’Emyrne (2002)
The most lopsided scoreline in soccer history came in 2002, when Madagascar's AS Adema defeated SO l’Emyrne 149–0. This wasn't due to pure dominance—it was a protest. SO l’Emyrne intentionally scored own goals to protest a referee decision in a previous match.
Arbroath 36–0 Bon Accord (1885)
Before AS Adema's protest, the record belonged to Scottish side Arbroath, who defeated Bon Accord 36–0 in a 19th-century Scottish Cup match. This remains the highest legitimate scoreline in a competitive game.
Most Goals by a Player in One Match
Stefan Dembicki – 16 Goals (1942)
In a 1942 Coupe de France match, Stefan Dembicki scored 16 goals for RC Lens in a 32–0 win over Auby-Asturies. This is the highest verified individual goal tally in professional soccer.
Yanick Djouzi Manzizila – 21 Goals (2014)
In Sweden's 9th tier, Yanick Djouzi Manzizila scored 21 goals in a single match for Congo United. While unofficial in professional terms, it's a mind-blowing feat.
Passang Tshering – 17 Goals (2007)
In Bhutan's national league, Passang Tshering netted 17 times in a single match—another example of extreme mismatches in lower-tier competitions.
International Records
Archie Thompson – 13 Goals (2001)
In a 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Archie Thompson scored 13 goals in Australia’s 31–0 rout of American Samoa. It remains the most goals scored by a player in a full international match.
Oleg Salenko – 5 World Cup Goals (1994)
Oleg Salenko scored five goals in a single FIFA World Cup match for Russia against Cameroon in 1994. This remains a record in men’s World Cup history.
Why These Records Still Mesmerize
-
Some were set in mismatched or lopsided contests.
-
Others were anomalies due to protest or poor competition.
-
Differences between professional, amateur, and international levels make direct comparisons tricky.
Still, these feats are part of soccer lore and serve as inspiration for young players aiming to sharpen their attacking instincts.
Final Thoughts
From historic protests to legendary personal efforts, the most goals scored in a soccer game show the highs and absurdities of the sport. Whether you're coaching or parenting an aspiring striker, these records offer the perfect fuel to dream big and shoot often.
Blog posts
-
, by Adam Zawati What Are the Best Soccer Goals for Backyards?
-
, by Adam Zawati Who Scored the Most Goals in a Soccer Game?
-
, by Adam Zawati Who Has the Most Goals in Soccer?
