The UEFA Champions League is the ultimate club competition in world football, where only the best perform at the highest level. Over the decades, many greats have made their mark, but only a select few have consistently found the net and topped the charts. In this article, we spotlight the top 5 UEFA Champions League top scorers of all time — players whose names are etched in European football history.
5. Raúl González
Raúl was once the all-time leading scorer in the UEFA Champions League, and he remains one of its legendary figures. With 71 goals for Real Madrid and Schalke 04, Raúl set the benchmark in the early 2000s. His intelligence, timing, and positional sense allowed him to score against the best defenses in Europe. Though he has since been overtaken, Raúl’s contribution to the UCL’s rich history is still widely respected.
4. Karim Benzema
Former Real Madrid and Lyon striker Karim Benzema ranks fourth among the top scorers with 90 goals. Known for his calm finishing, link-up play, and ability to perform under pressure, Benzema played a vital role in Real Madrid’s UCL dominance in the late 2010s and early 2020s. His most memorable run came in the 2021–22 season, when he delivered clutch goals against PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester City. Benzema aged like fine wine, improving even in his 30s.
Also read: Top 5 player with the most appearances in the Champions League final
3. Robert Lewandowski
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski is third on the list of UEFA Champions League top scorers. With 105 goals, his reputation as one of the most lethal finishers is well deserved. Lewandowski’s most prolific spell came with Bayern Munich, where he won the 2020 title and consistently led the line with sharp movement and clinical strikes. He also scored in his earlier years with Borussia Dortmund and more recently with Barcelona.
2. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi follows closely behind with 129 goals, and is second among the top scorers ,most of which came during his golden years at Barcelona. His ability to dribble through tight spaces, pick out passes, and deliver jaw-dropping finishes made him a constant threat in Europe. Messi also added goals with Paris Saint-Germain before returning to Inter Miami. His legacy in the UEFA Champions League is filled with stunning solo goals, free-kick masterpieces, and key performances in finals and semifinals.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo leads the UEFA Champions League top scorers list with 140 goals. Known for his unmatched athleticism, clutch finishing, and dominance in big games, Ronaldo was instrumental in Real Madrid’s five UCL titles during his time there. His record includes numerous hat-tricks and vital knockout goals. Ronaldo’s consistency at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus places him as arguably the greatest in the competition’s history.
| Rank | Player | Goals | Clubs Represented |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | 140 | Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus |
| 2 | Lionel Messi | 129 | Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain |
| 3 | Robert Lewandowski | 105 | Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Barcelona |
| 4 | Karim Benzema | 90 | Lyon, Real Madrid |
| 5 | Raúl González | 71 | Real Madrid, Schalke 04 |
These UEFA Champions League top scorers have displayed remarkable consistency and elite-level performance across multiple seasons. They have not only scored goals but also inspired millions and lifted titles, defining what it means to be world-class on the biggest club stage.
As new stars emerge and chase records, these five legends set the standard for greatness in European football.
FAQs
1. Who are the top two all-time top scorers in the UEFA Champions League?
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi holds the record with 140 goals and 129 goals respectively.
2. How many players have scored over 100 goals in the Champions League?
Three players: Cristiano Ronaldo (140), Lionel Messi (129), and Robert Lewandowski (105).
3. Is Lionel Messi still adding to his UCL goal tally?
No, as of 2025, Messi plays for Inter Miami in the MLS and is not competing in the UEFA Champions League.