USMNT Hopeful Ties Cristiano Ronaldo's Clutch Champions League Goal Record
Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero shared an impressive record alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, the top scorer in the Champions League. Now, Ricardo Pepi, a hopeful for the United States men's national team (USMNT), has joined this exclusive group.
On Tuesday evening, Pepi scored his third decisive stoppage-time goal in Europe's premier club competition, securing a 1–1 draw for PSV Eindhoven in the 93rd minute against Olympiacos.
Pepi's Clutch Performances
- Pepi’s first Champions League goal came in November 2023, a 92nd-minute winner against Sevilla after coming on just 10 minutes earlier, completing a remarkable comeback from a two-goal deficit.
- Last season, PSV trailed 2–0 to Shakhtar Donetsk before Malik Tillman scored twice late in regular time. Pepi then scored the winning goal at 95 minutes.
Historical Significance
Pepi holds the record for the most second-half stoppage-time goals (three) that directly influenced the result in the 33-year history of the Champions League’s modern format, according to Opta.
Sergio Agüero, a Manchester City icon, also shares this remarkable record of clutch late goals.
Summary
Ricardo Pepi has cemented his status as a late-game hero by matching legendary clutch scoring feats in the Champions League, joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Agüero in holding this rare record.
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