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Canada's Sinclair becomes international soccer's all-time top scorer

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Christine Sinclair stands alone.

The Canadian legend became international soccer's all-time leading scorer Wednesday, netting a brace in the opening half of an Olympic qualifier against St. Kitts and Nevis to give her 185 goals for her country. Sinclair's second strike of the contest saw her surpass retired American forward Abby Wambach as the sport's most prolific international player.

Sinclair, 36, equaled Wambach's record of 184 goals when she calmly converted a penalty - which she won after being bundled over in the area - in the seventh minute of action.

She didn't wait long to make history, establishing the new benchmark in the 23rd minute by slotting the ball into the bottom corner from close range to finish off a slick Canadian passing move. Sinclair was promptly mobbed by her teammates on the field, with celebrations extending to the bench.

"It's not something I really think about," Sinclair, in typically reserved fashion, told reporters after Canada's 11-0 win. "I'm just me. I'm private, I'm quiet. I'll speak up when I need to ... Hopefully I'm an example for others, especially like young kids. Show them what's possible when you dream those crazy dreams and put in the work.

"But most of all, I just try to be a good Canadian day after day," she added.

The iconic captain's longevity is arguably more impressive than her scoring prowess; Sinclair scored her first international goal in 2000 and hasn't looked back since.

Wednesday's game at H-E-B Park in Edinburg, Texas, was Sinclair's 290th for Canada. Wambach, by comparison, compiled her 184 goals for the United States in 255 matches. The American, who retired in 2015, was quick to congratulate Sinclair on her accomplishment.

"Christine: History is made. Your victory is our victory. We celebrate with you," Wambach wrote on Twitter.

Others joined Wambach in heaping praise on Sinclair, including USWNT legend Mia Hamm, who held the record prior to her compatriot. Another American, Kristine Lilly, along with German Birgit Prinz round out the top five international scorers in soccer history.

Of Sinclair's 185 tallies, 10 have come on the World Cup stage, while she's scored 31 in Olympic competition - including qualifying - according to TSN.

Competition Goals Scored
Algarve Cup / other tournaments 80
Friendlies 40
Olympics (including qualifying) 31
CONCACAF Gold Cup 24
World Cup 10

"What an experience to be on the field with Sinc in this moment," midfielder Sophie Schmidt said after Wednesday's historic match. "I'm so proud of her. I think all of Canada is so proud of her."

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