In a sport that thrives on drama and moments of magic, nothing flips the script faster than a goal scored within seconds of kickoff. The fastest goals in football history are not just quirks of the game; they are records born out of razor-sharp reflexes, tactical masterstrokes, and sheer audacity. These goals are the epitome of explosive starts, often catching even the most seasoned defences flat-footed. Whether in domestic leagues or grand international arenas, a rapid goal has the power to set the tone or shock the world.
Here’s a comprehensive, in-depth look at the top 10 fastest goals ever scored in football, including the stories behind them.
10. Jesus Navas - 13 Seconds (2013)
Match: Spain vs Italy
Competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Semi-final
In a high-stakes match, Jesus Navas finished off a slick Spanish move within 13 seconds, catching Italy flat-footed. Spain’s lightning transitions and Navas’s speed were on full display as they dismantled a strong Italian defence with ruthless efficiency. Navas’s goal exemplified the speed and execution of Spain’s golden generation at their peak. It set the record for the fastest goal in FIFA Confederations Cup history, striking fear into opponents from the opening seconds.
9. Roy Makaay - 10.12 Seconds (2007)
Match: Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid
Competition: UEFA Champions League
Dutch striker Roy Makaay scored the fastest goal in UEFA Champions League history when he capitalised on a mistake by Roberto Carlos. Bayern pressed high from the start, forcing the turnover, and Makaay calmly buried the ball into the net after 10.12 seconds. Makaay’s goal was a textbook example of high pressing and clinical finishing at the elite level. It holds the record for the fastest goal ever scored in UEFA Champions League history.
8. Ledley King - 9.82 Seconds (2000)
Match: Tottenham Hotspur vs Bradford City
Competition: English Premier League
Defender Ledley King scored a thunderbolt from outside the box within 9.82 seconds, a record that stood for 19 years in the Premier League. Known for his composure, King’s rare forward run caught everyone by surprise, and his goal still ranks among the league's most iconic moments. King’s strike redefined expectations from defenders by showcasing unexpected attacking brilliance. For nearly two decades, it stood as the fastest goal in Premier League history.
7. Davide Gualtieri - 8.3 Seconds (1993)
Match: San Marino vs England
Competition: FIFA World Cup Qualifier
On paper, San Marino vs England was a mismatch. But Davide Gualtieri, a computer technician by day, shocked the world by scoring just 8.3 seconds after kick-off. Stuart Pearce's back-pass was intercepted by Gualtieri, who calmly slotted it past David Seaman. Although England eventually won 7-1, the damage to their pride had already been done. Gualtieri’s strike became a global symbol of the underdog spirit in football. It holds the record for the fastest goal in FIFA World Cup qualifying history.
6. Shane Long - 7.69 Seconds (2019)
Match: Southampton vs Watford
Competition: English Premier League
Irish striker Shane Long broke King’s record with a stunning strike after just 7.69 seconds. He charged down a defender's attempted clearance, regained control, and deftly chipped the ball over the keeper. It’s currently the fastest Premier League goal ever. Long's quick reaction and pressing intensity produced the fastest goal ever recorded in Premier League history. His goal is a masterclass in capitalising on defensive errors with ruthless efficiency.
5. Damien Mori - 3.69 Seconds (1995)
Match: Adelaide City vs Sydney United
Competition: Australian National Soccer League
Australian striker Damien Mori sprinted through the centre immediately after kickoff, received a forward pass, and rifled the ball past the keeper all in 3.69 seconds. His goal remained the fastest in professional football for years and is still revered in Australian football history. Mori’s goal highlighted the attacking flair and fast-paced strategy of 1990s Australian football. It remained the fastest goal in professional-level football for years, setting a benchmark in the NSL.
4. Ricardo Oliveira - 2.8 Seconds (1998)
Match: Rio Branco vs Soriano
Competition: Campeonato Capixaba (Brazil)
Before he became a well-known figure in Brazil’s national team, Ricardo Oliveira showcased his attacking flair with a goal scored within 2.8 seconds of kick-off. Oliveira capitalised on a premeditated plan to shoot directly from midfield, catching the keeper off balance. Although it's rarely mentioned in mainstream lists, official Brazilian records back its timing. Oliveira’s early-career strike showed his sharp eye for goal and fearless decision-making. The goal is considered a defining moment that foreshadowed his successful international career.
3. Nawaf Al-Abed - 2.4 Seconds (2009)
Match: Al-Hilal vs Al-Shoalah
Competition: Saudi U-23 League
Official Status: Disputed (U-23 level)
In 2009, Saudi winger Nawaf Al-Abed made headlines worldwide when he scored just 2.4 seconds after kickoff. Upon the referee's whistle, Al-Abed launched a direct shot from the halfway line that stunned the goalkeeper and netted instantly. Although it occurred in a U-23 league match and is therefore not recognised by FIFA as the official fastest, its precision and audacity earned it viral fame and cemented its place in football folklore. Despite being unofficial, it is widely regarded as the fastest goal ever scored in football history.
2. Gavin Stokes - 2.1 Seconds (2017)
Match: Maryhill FC vs Clydebank
Competition: Scottish Junior FA Cup
Playing in a non-league Scottish Junior fixture, Gavin Stokes took the kick-off himself and smashed a lobbed shot directly from the centre circle. The ball looped over the unprepared goalkeeper and landed in the net just 2.1 seconds later. Despite the lower-tier setting, the goal quickly went viral and was hailed as one of the most breathtaking starts ever recorded. Stokes's goal was a clear display of instinct and flawless striking technique. Its viral fame proves that unforgettable football moments can emerge from even the smallest competitions.
1. Nicklas Bendtner - 1.8 Seconds (2007, Unofficial)
Match: Arsenal Reserves vs Tottenham Reserves
While technically scored in a reserve team match, Nicklas Bendtner's headed goal 1.8 seconds after kick-off is one of the fastest ever seen in a competitive environment. The Danish striker rushed into the box, met a cross with perfect timing, and scored instantly. Bendtner’s lightning header showcased how an alert substitute can instantly change a game’s momentum. Though unofficial, it remains one of the most striking examples of immediate impact off the bench.
Honorable Mentions
- Hakan Şükür - 11 Seconds (Turkey vs South Korea, 2002 World Cup)
- Alan Shearer - 10.4 Seconds (Newcastle vs Man City, 2003)
- Kylian Mbappe - 8 Seconds (Training, PSG 2022 – unofficial)
Also Read: Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in the World 2025
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
