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The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious tournament in international football, showcasing the best players from around the world. One of the most exciting records in World Cup history is the most goals scored by a single player in a single match. This record highlights extraordinary individual performances that have left a lasting impact on football history.
The Record for Most Goals in a Single FIFA World Cup Match
The record for the most goals scored by a player in a single FIFA World Cup match is held by Oleg Salenko of Russia. He scored five goals in a match against Cameroon during the 1994 World Cup held in the United States. This remarkable achievement took place on June 28, 1994, and remains unmatched to this day.
Details of the Record-Setting Match
In the 1994 match, Russia defeated Cameroon with a final score of 6-1. Oleg Salenko’s five goals came within just 35 minutes, showcasing his incredible scoring ability. His performance not only set the record but also helped Russia advance to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Other Notable Performances
- Gary Lineker (England) scored 5 goals against Poland in the 1986 World Cup.
- Florian Albert (Hungary) scored 5 goals in the 1966 World Cup.
- Just Fontaine (France) scored 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup, the most goals in a single tournament, but not in a single match.
While many players have scored multiple goals in World Cup matches, Salenko’s five-goal feat remains the highest in a single game. This record exemplifies the extraordinary talent and moments of brilliance that make the World Cup so thrilling for fans worldwide.