Scottish Footballer Maria McAneny Claims Guinness World Record for Fastest Goal

A Record-Shattering Strike in Four Seconds

According to Главком: Scottish footballer Maria McAneny has secured a place in the Guinness World Records for scoring the fastest goal in women's football history, finding the net a mere 4.1 seconds after kick-off. The 21-year-old Celtic player set this remarkable record in late 2025 during a Scottish Women's Premier League match against Hibernian, which Celtic went on to win 2–1. This achievement highlights the incredible pace and skill now present in the women's game.

The previous record of 11 seconds, held by Northern Ireland's Simone Magill since 2016, was decisively broken. The official Guinness World Records certificate was presented at Celtic's Barrowfield training ground, where editor-in-chief Craig Glenday hailed McAneni as a 'local hero whose success sends a powerful message to all young female players about the boundless opportunities in women's sport.'

'Local hero whose success sends a powerful message to all young female players about the boundless opportunities in women's sport.' - Craig Glenday

International Debut and Goal

Adding to her landmark year, Maria McAneny made her senior debut for the Scotland national team in November 2025 against Ukraine, a match where she also scored. The fixture ended in a 1–1 draw, marking another significant milestone for the young athlete. Her rapid rise from domestic record-breaker to international scorer is an inspiring trajectory for aspiring footballers.

McAneny's accomplishment represents a pivotal moment for women's football, underscoring the sport's growing dynamism and the professional opportunities available. Records like this have the power to motivate a new generation of girls to take up the sport, proving that women's football produces its own global heroes and iconic achievements. Such examples are crucial for driving further investment and support for the women's game worldwide.