The UEFA Champions League has seen countless iconic moments, with penalty goals often proving decisive. Topping the all-time list are football legends who’ve kept their nerve from the spot. Cristiano Ronaldo leads the chart, followed closely by Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski. Their clinical finishing under pressure cements their status among the competition’s greatest scorers.
3. Lionel Messi – 18 Penalties
Most of Lionel Messi’s penalty goals in the Champions League came while wearing a Barcelona shirt, with a few added during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. Though Messi is widely considered one of football’s greatest, penalty kicks have long been viewed as a rare flaw in his otherwise impeccable game — a subtle reminder of his humanity.
Despite scoring a significant number of penalties over the years, Messi has also missed several crucial ones in high-pressure moments. Still, thanks to his remarkable longevity at the top level, he’s managed to convert 18 spot kicks in the competition.
2. Robert Lewandowski – 19 Penalties
Robert Lewandowski moved level with Cristiano Ronaldo atop the Champions League all-time penalty scorers list after bagging two spot kicks in Barcelona’s thrilling 5–4 win over Benfica.
That dramatic nine-goal encounter saw the Polish striker surpass Lionel Messi’s tally of 18 penalties in the tournament. Lewandowski’s two clinical finishes from the spot played a vital role in steering the Catalan giants to a memorable victory and marked another chapter in his storied career.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 19 Penalties
Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t just a global icon he’s also one of the finest penalty-takers the game has ever seen. Known for his composure and precision in high-stakes moments, Ronaldo has built a reputation for consistently delivering from the spot.
With 19 successful penalties in the Champions League to his name, Ronaldo stands at the top of the list. His record highlights not only his technical ability but also his nerve under pressure. However, with Lewandowski drawing level, Ronaldo’s position could soon be challenged.
