The UEFA Champions League has been home to numerous unforgettable moments, with penalty goals often playing a crucial role. At the top of the all-time list are football legends who have remained composed under pressure. Cristiano Ronaldo sits at the top, closely followed by Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski. Their precise finishing from the spot solidifies their place among the competition’s greatest goal scorers.
Lionel Messi – 18 Penalties
Lionel Messi netted the majority of his Champions League penalties during his iconic spell with Barcelona, with a few more added during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. Though often hailed as one of the greatest to ever play the game, penalties have occasionally been seen as a slight chink in Messi’s otherwise flawless armor a quiet reminder of his mortality on the pitch.
While he has scored a considerable number of spot-kicks over the years, Messi has also missed some key ones in crucial situations. Nonetheless, his longevity and consistency at the highest level have helped him rack up 18 penalty goals in the competition.
Robert Lewandowski – 19 Penalties
Robert Lewandowski climbed to joint-first on the Champions League all-time penalty scorers list after slotting home two spot-kicks in Barcelona’s thrilling 5–4 win over Benfica.
That goal-fest saw the Polish striker overtake Lionel Messi’s tally of 18, with his two expertly taken penalties proving decisive in securing a dramatic victory for the Catalan side. The performance added yet another highlight to Lewandowski’s illustrious career.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 19 Penalties
Cristiano Ronaldo is not only a footballing legend but also one of the most reliable penalty takers the sport has seen. Renowned for his cool-headedness and clinical execution, Ronaldo has built a reputation for thriving under pressure.
With 19 successful penalties in the Champions League, he currently shares the top spot. His record is a testament to both his technical prowess and mental resilience — though with Lewandowski now level, the race for sole possession of the top spot is heating up.
