“The best scorers over 35 years old in the history of European competitions.”

Olivier Giroud’s age seems to be just a detail for the veteran forward, who continues to shine on the pitch, proving that age is just a number. This week, the Frenchman was instrumental in Lille’s victory over Crvena zvezda, scoring the opening goal that helped to overturn the first-leg deficit and secure a place in the Round of 16 of the Europa League.

Giroud, who is about to celebrate his 40th birthday, not only continues to compete at the highest level but is also leaving his mark on the history of European football. Since turning 35, he has already scored 11 goals in prestigious European competitions, a feat achieved by only seven players before him. Among these legendary names are icons such as Alfredo Di Stefano, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Ferenc Puskas.

The statistics speak for themselves: Di Stefano scored 13 goals, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Ferenc Puskas added 14 and 18, respectively. Among those who are still active, Giroud is not alone. Robert Lewandowski and Edin Dzeko are the other two who have also made history, each with 16 goals in European competitions since turning 35. Lewandowski has already scored twice in the current edition of the Champions League, while Dzeko, following his transfer from Fiorentina to Schalke, is currently out of UEFA competitions at this time.

But the standout record is that of Artiz Aduriz, the former forward of Athletic Bilbao, who became a legend by scoring 19 goals in European competitions after turning 35. Aduriz was the top scorer in the Europa League in the 2017-18 season, at the age of 37, with 11 goals.

These numbers not only highlight the durability and quality of players like Giroud, but also provoke reflection on what it truly means to age in the world of football. While many players see their careers decline after 30, Giroud and his peers prove that, with the right mindset and an unwavering passion for the game, it is possible to defy expectations and continue to shine on the biggest stages.

Giroud, with his experience and skill, not only establishes himself as one of the most prolific older scorers in the history of European competitions, but also as an inspiring example for all athletes who aspire to make their mark, regardless of age. The saga of this French forward seems far from over, and football fans are eager to see how far he can go.