Among the many talents that have graced the game throughout its history, a significant majority have been right-footed. Whether it was Johan Cruyff’s pioneering skills, Pele’s relentless goalscoring, or the all-rounded abilities of Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini, these right-footed players have contributed in many ways, leaving their indelible mark as legends of the game. Here is a ranking of the 10 most right footed goals players in football history that Wintips has compiled. The names that follow make it clear that the players who qualify for this list are also some of the greatest footballers of all time.
Top 10 most right footed goals all time
10. Lev Yashin - Most right footed goals
Career span: 1950–1970
Lev Yashin, the legendary goalkeeper of world football, did not rely heavily on his right foot to achieve great success in his career. As the primary defender of the goal, most of his skills focused on blocking dangerous shots and commanding the defense, rather than using his feet to create scoring opportunities. However, when it comes to right-footed players, Yashin certainly deserves to be on this list. His feet, particularly his right foot, occasionally became an unexpected weapon, making miraculous saves and preventing shots that seemed destined to score.
Yashin is not only known as the best goalkeeper in football history but also as the only player in this position to have received the prestigious Ballon d'Or award. His two-decade career left a monumental legacy, cementing Yashin's image as a legend essential to any discussion of the greatest players of all time.
9. Marco Van Basten - Most right footed goals in footbal history
Career duration: 1982–1992
When Arnold Muhren sent a long pass from the left, the ball seemed too high and wide for his target in the penalty area. However, Marco Van Basten transformed the impossible into a magical moment. With astonishing finesse and precision, the Dutchman unleashed a perfect right-footed volley from an impossibly tight angle, leaving the keeper helpless.
Scoring such a spectacular goal is an achievement in itself, but doing so in a Euro final is nothing short of iconic. The goal ended the Soviet Union's hopes, as the Netherlands won 2-0 in the Euro 1988 final, bringing their country its first continental title. Hailed as one of the greatest goals in the history of the tournament, it cemented Van Basten's class, a three-time Ballon d'Or winner and a shining symbol of Dutch football.
8. Michel Platini
Career Period: 1972–1987
Michel Platini, one of the greatest players in football history, had everything a star could wish for: spectacular goals, pinpoint assists, mesmerizing dribbles, and the ability to execute set pieces with laser precision. It is no surprise that Platini was named World Player of the Year three times in a row, a testament to his extraordinary skill and influence on the game.
Although he was right-footed, the French legend was not afraid to use his left foot, demonstrating his all-around ability. Along with his incredible leadership skills and unwavering discipline, Platini became an icon for both Juventus and the French national team. Affectionately known as "Le Roi" (The King) by his fans, he not only left a mark on the football community but also etched his name in history with countless titles and illustrious records. Platini's legacy, both for club and country, remains a shining beacon in the world of football.
7. Ronaldo
Career Period: 1993–2011
Ronaldo Nazario, also known as "O Phenomenon," was a pure magician with his right foot and was adored by the football world for his brilliance. Constant injury concerns could only do so much to this man, who would miraculously come back from even the most unlikely situations.
Most notably, Ronaldo played very little in the build-up to the 2002 World Cup after suffering a serious knee injury in 2000. However, the former Real Madrid legend returned unfazed for Brazil, at the height of his powers, delivering one of the greatest performances by a player the world has ever seen in the tournament.
He led his country to a fifth World Cup title with an impressive eight goals, including two in the final, and won numerous individual awards in the process, including a famous second Ballon d'Or. Best of all, his heroics were symbolized by his iconic hairstyle.
6. Franz Beckenbauer
Career: 1964–1983
Franz Beckenbauer, nicknamed "Der Kaiser" (The Emperor), was a defender by trade but a one-man army on the pitch. He seemed to be able to do everything the game demanded of him, regardless of the time or position on the pitch. Beckenbauer was not only excellent at tackling and stopping opposition attacks but also at passing with incredible accuracy from any distance. In particular, he often dribbled across the pitch with speed and confidence, leaving opponents in awe.
Beckenbauer was not just a defender; he was the embodiment of football perfection, a player who could change the course of a match with a single move. His all-round ability is a constant source of inspiration for generations of modern defenders. In addition to his extraordinary talent, Beckenbauer also boasts an impressive collection of titles: three European Cups, many national championships, and countless individual awards. His legacy affirms his position as one of the greatest players in football history.
5. Alfredo Di Stefano
Career: 1945–1966
Alfredo Di Stefano may not be a name that is always mentioned in the final chapters of football history books, but his place in world football is undeniable. The Argentine possessed extraordinary characteristics, to the point that he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. Di Stefano is the only player in history to be awarded the Super Ballon d'Or – a special award that celebrates excellence beyond time.
During his prime years at Real Madrid, Di Stéfano contributed to one of the greatest dynasties in football history. He helped the team win five consecutive European Cups, an unprecedented feat. More importantly, Di Stéfano scored in each final, proving he was the decisive factor in Real Madrid's total domination of the continent. However, goalscoring was just one aspect of his greatness. His peers and contemporaries hailed Di Stéfano as "the most complete player" ever for his ability to excel in every aspect of the game.
4. Johan Cruyff
Career span: 1964–1984
Johan Cruyff is one of the greatest icons of world football and shaped and revolutionized the game with his philosophy of “Total Football.” The creative style he pioneered was not only entertaining but also laid the groundwork for the modern style of play that still thrives today. Cruyff was not only a brilliant strategist but also a true artist on the pitch, with a talent that mesmerized audiences. His outstanding talent made him the centerpiece of teams that played free-flowing, emotional football.
However, Cruyff was never caught up in showiness or tricks aimed at seeking attention. He always combined art and efficiency harmoniously, demonstrating the spirit of an elite technician. His football philosophy was encapsulated in the famous quote: "Technique is not the ability to juggle the ball 1,000 times. Anyone can do that with practice, but that's for the circus. Technique is passing the ball with one touch, at the right speed, to the right foot of a teammate." These words not only reflect his sharp thinking but also demonstrate his timeless vision, an eternal legacy in the hearts of fans.
3. Zinedine Zidane
Career: 1989–2006
Although Zinedine Zidane was right-footed, this did not limit his finishing ability. On the contrary, the Frenchman could boast a wide range of exquisite goals with both feet, demonstrating his all-round ability. One of the greatest moments in Champions League history was the stunning volley he scored with his left foot in the 2002 final against Bayer Leverkusen at the edge of the penalty area, a move that was beyond reproach.
Zidane's right foot was no slouch when it counted, though. His light touch, technique, and flair allowed him to fool defenders with ease. Given just a little space, Zidane could unleash a powerful shot on goal or deliver a precise pass to a teammate. With an elegant, tough, and efficient style, Zidane was the embodiment of perfection, bringing mesmerizing and inspiring moves to the pitch.
2. Pele
Career: 1956–1977
For many football historians, Pele is a name that comes up frequently. Having mastered the international stage in the 1950s and 1960s, the Brazilian created an era of his own with his goalscoring exploits. With an incredible record of three World Cups and a world record of 1,279 goals in 1,363 matches (including friendlies), the Brazilian is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of all time.
The only trophy he missed out on was the Ballon d'Or, which at the time was only awarded to those who played in Europe. However, the history of the award was revised in 2016, with a series of 'real' winners designated for each year that continental restrictions were in place, and Pele became the recipient of seven awards throughout his illustrious career.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Career duration: 2002–present
The long-running rivalry between two titans, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, became a cornerstone of modern football, and in such debates, the Argentine holds the edge thanks to his Ballon d'Or record, but don't let that detract from the prominence of the Portuguese.
While Pele has led the way in history with his unbeaten goalscoring record, it is Ronaldo who tops the list for the most official goals in senior competitions. Likewise, the Madeira-born player holds several other notable records, including most international goals and most goals in Champions League history.
Having demonstrated utter dominance in English, Spanish, and Italian football, while still displaying admirable levels of hard work and inspiration, Ronaldo is truly a legend in his own right. He is perhaps the greatest right-footed player to ever play the game.
Conclusion
In the history of football, most right footed goals have made a lasting impression. From the brilliance of Johan Cruyff and Pele to the exquisite moves of Zinedine Zidane, they have shaped the golden eras of football. Cristiano Ronaldo, holding the record for most right-footed goals, tops the list thanks to his persistence and superb scoring ability. He has not only overcome the age barrier but has also set many impressive records, further affirming his position as one of the greatest players of all time.
See more: 10 players most left footed goals in football history
