Milla's record still out of reach for Messi and Ronaldo
Roger Milla remains the oldest goal scorer in World Cup history. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have not beaten the Cameroonian legend's feat.
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continuing to break various records, Roger Milla's record as the oldest goal scorer in World Cup history remains unbroken. In the 2026 tournament, Ronaldo scored against Croatia in the round of 16 at the age of 41 years and 147 days, becoming the second-oldest scorer in World Cup history. The Portuguese star also became the first player to score in six different World Cup final tournaments.
However, Cameroonian icon Milla still holds the top spot. He scored against Russia in 1994 at the age of 42 years and 39 days. Cameroon lost 1-6 and were eliminated in the group stage, but Milla's goal stands the test of time. He gained worldwide fame four years earlier in 1990, scoring four goals at age 38 and helping Cameroon become the first African team to reach the quarterfinals. His legendary corner-flag dance became one of football's most iconic celebrations.
Lionel Messi moved up to fourth place on the all-time list after scoring against Egypt at 39 years and 13 days. He surpassed several legends but still trails Milla. Also entering the top ten were Croatia's Ivan Perisic (37 years, 150 days) and Austria's Marko Arnautovic (37 years, 69 days).
Ronaldo announced after Portugal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup that he will not play in the next tournament. This means Milla is likely to hold his record for a long time, unless Messi or someone else decides to continue until 2030, when the World Cup will also be held in Portugal and Argentina.
