In football history, few moments capture the magic of the game like a perfectly executed free-kick. From curve to power, placement to precision, the ability to score from a dead-ball situation is a rare and celebrated skill. In this countdown, we highlight the top 10 players with the most free-kick goals ever, including legends from across different generations. These players have mastered the art of the set-piece, etching their names into football folklore.
With incredible technique and consistency, these icons have raised the standard for what it means to be a free-kick specialist in world football. Let’s dive into the list of players who have scored the most free-kick goals.
10. Rogerio Ceni
Free-Kick Goals: 61
Years Active: 1990–2015
Position: Goalkeeper
Rogerio Ceni was not your average goalkeeper. Throughout his career, he stunned football fans by scoring an incredible 61 free-kick goals, making him one of the highest-scoring goalkeepers ever. His set-piece prowess was exceptional, and he regularly stepped up to take crucial free-kicks and penalties for São Paulo FC, his lifelong club. Ceni’s free-kick accuracy and calm under pressure cemented his status as a legend in football history.
9. Diego Maradona
Free-Kick Goals: 62
Years Active: 1976–1994
Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward
Diego Maradona’s flair and genius extended to free-kicks as well. With 62 free-kick goals, Maradona was a master at bending the ball with pinpoint accuracy, often surprising goalkeepers with his creativity. His ability to score from set-pieces was an integral part of his overall football brilliance that helped Argentina win the 1986 World Cup and secure success at club level.
8. Zico
Free-Kick Goals: 62
Years Active: 1971–1994
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Zico, a Brazilian maestro, matched Maradona’s tally of 62 free-kick goals with his sublime technique. Renowned as one of the greatest playmakers, Zico’s free-kicks were powerful and well-placed, often curling past defenders and goalkeepers with ease. His contributions at Flamengo and the Brazilian national team highlight his free-kick excellence, making him an iconic figure in set-piece history.
7. Cristiano Ronaldo
Free-Kick Goals: 64
Years Active: 2002–Present
Position: Forward
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most prolific goal scorers in football history, has scored 64 free-kick goals and is still active. His trademark knuckleball free-kick technique, combined with immense power and accuracy, has often left goalkeepers helpless. Ronaldo’s dedication to free-kick training and clutch performances ensure he remains a significant figure in the Most Free-Kick Goals conversation.
Also Read: Top 10 Highest Scoring Matches in UEFA Champions League History
6. David Beckham
Free-Kick Goals: 65
Years Active: 1992–2013
Position: Midfielder
David Beckham was a free-kick specialist who popularized the art of curling the ball over and around the defensive wall. With 65 free-kick goals, his technique and consistency helped him deliver crucial goals throughout his career. Beckham’s accuracy and composure on set-pieces made him a feared dead-ball taker and inspired future generations of free-kick takers.
5. Lionel Messi
Free-Kick Goals: 66
Years Active: 2003–Present
Position: Forward
Lionel Messi, arguably the best player of his generation, has scored 66 free-kick goals, showcasing his incredible accuracy and calmness in high-pressure situations. His free-kick goals are often distinguished by their subtle curve and perfect placement, making it difficult for goalkeepers to save. Messi’s consistent threat from free-kicks adds an extra dimension to his already legendary career.
4. Victor Legrotaglie
Free-Kick Goals: 66
Years Active: 1953–1975
Position: Midfielder
Victor Legrotaglie, a lesser-known but incredibly skilled Argentine footballer, scored 66 free-kick goals in his career. His ability to combine power and precision made him a feared dead-ball specialist in his era. Legrotaglie’s contributions remain a significant part of Argentina’s rich football history, especially in the realm of free-kick excellence.
3. Ronaldinho
Free-Kick Goals: 66
Years Active: 1998–2015
Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward
Ronaldinho brought joy and artistry to football, and his free-kick goals were no exception. Scoring 66 times from free-kicks, his technique was a blend of power and creativity, often leaving goalkeepers baffled. Ronaldinho’s signature free-kicks combined trickery with pinpoint accuracy, contributing to his reputation as one of the greatest free-kick takers in football history.
2. Pele
Free-Kick Goals: 70
Years Active: 1956–1977
Position: Forward
Pele, the iconic Brazilian forward, scored 70 free-kick goals during his illustrious career. Known as the “King of Football,” Pele’s free-kicks were a blend of raw power and exquisite precision. His ability to score from free-kicks helped Brazil win multiple World Cups and left a lasting legacy on the art of dead-ball situations.
1. Juninho Pernambucano
Free-Kick Goals: 77
Years Active: 1993–2013
Position: Midfielder
Juninho Pernambucano is considered the greatest free-kick taker of all time, holding the record for the Most Free-Kick Goals scored with 77 throughout his career. His mastery over free-kicks combined perfect technique, exceptional curl, and precise power, making him nearly unstoppable from set-pieces. Juninho’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring footballers worldwide.
FAQ
Q1: Who holds the record for the most free-kick goals scored?
A1: Juninho Pernambucano holds the record with 77-most free-kick goals.
Q2: How many free-kick goals has Cristiano Ronaldo scored?
A2: Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 64 free-kick goals and is still active.
Q3: Which active player has the most free-kick goals?
A3: Lionel Messi leads active players with 66-most free-kick goals.
Q4: Are goalkeepers included in the most free-kick goals list?
A4: Yes, Rogerio Ceni, a goalkeeper, scored 61 free-kick goals.