Some footballers achieve their biggest dreams early in their careers.
The World Cup is the biggest stage for football players to showcase their skills and talents. It’s a tournament that is watched by millions of people around the world, and every player dreams of scoring a goal on this stage. In this article, we will take a look at the top 3 youngest goalscorers in World Cup history.
3- Gavi (Spain) -18 years, 110 days
At number three is Gavi, the Spanish sensation who made history at the 2022 World Cup. The Barcelona star was just 18 years and 110 days old when he scored a goal against Costa Rica in Spain‘s first group-stage match. Gavi’s goal helped La Roja secure a 7-0 victory and make a perfect start to the tournament. Gavi’s future in football looks bright, and he has already drawn comparisons to some of Spain’s greatest midfielders.
2- Manuel Rosas (Mexico) – 18 years, 93 days
Manuel Rosas, a Mexican striker, is second on the list. He was just 18 years and 90 days old when he scored the first own goal in World Cup history in El Tri’s match against Chile. Three days later, he scored twice for Mexico in their 6-3 defeat against Argentina to cement his place in the tournament’s history. Despite his young age, Rosas had already established himself as one of Mexico’s most promising players.
1- Pelé (Brazil) -17 years, 239 days
Taking the top spot is none other than Pelé, the Brazilian legend who is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time. Pelé was just 17 years and 239 days old when he made his World Cup debut in 1958. In Brazil’s opening match against Sweden, Pelé scored a goal and helped his team win 5-2. He went on to score six more goals in the tournament, including 2 in the final against Sweden, and Brazil won their first World Cup title. Pelé’s performance at the 1958 World Cup announced his arrival on the world stage, and he went on to win two more World Cups with Brazil.