Who Ranks Among the Champions League Semi-Final Legends?

As the Champions League final draws near, football enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation, particularly following Inter Milan's thrilling progress into the Munich showdown. With a breathtaking aggregate win of 7-6 over Barcelona, the semi-finals have provided some unforgettable moments. Specifically, after a nail-biting 3-3 draw in Catalonia, Davide Frattesi’s late extra-time winner secured Inter’s place in the final.

On the other hand, Paris Saint-Germain is poised to reach their second Champions League final as they welcome Arsenal for the second leg of their tie, holding a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first match. The French giants, previous runners-up against Bayern Munich in 2020, are eager to fulfil their dream of clinching the prestigious title, a quest that has become more than just a campaign; it is an enduring aspiration.

Yet, amidst the excitement surrounding the upcoming final, a compelling narrative emerges regarding the players who have made their mark in semi-final history. The question arises: which legends hold the record for the most goals scored during the Champions League semi-finals?

Unsurprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo stands tall as the record goalscorer during this crucial stage. With an astonishing 140 goals in Champions League history, the Portuguese sensation has found the back of the net 13 times in just 21 semi-final appearances for both Manchester United and Real Madrid. Statistically speaking, he reigns supreme, a testament to his ability to deliver under pressure.

Karim Benzema ranks just behind, having played the joint-third most semi-final matches (18) and netting an impressive eight goals. His track record places him as a reliable asset during knockout phases, marking him as a key player to watch in future competitions.

In third place, Robert Lewandowski has scored seven goals, with a staggering four of those coming in a single match for Borussia Dortmund against Real Madrid in 2013 — a game that continues to resonate with football fans for its sheer drama and skill. Lionil Messi, often compared to Ronaldo in the debate over the greatest player, has also shown his prowess by scoring six goals in semi-finals for Barcelona, securing him the fourth position on this list. Joining him at fifth place are Jari Litmanen and Alessandro Del Piero, each with five goals.

These statistics not only illustrate individual brilliance but also underscore the ever-rising stakes of Champions League matches, where legends are made and stories unfold. As we await the final, one cannot help but ponder: which of today's stars will rise to prominence in future semi-finals and perhaps tip the scales of history once again?

What are your thoughts on these standout players? Do you think any current stars will surpass these records in the years to come? Join the discussion in the comments below—your insights are welcome as we celebrate these Champions League legends!

• Champions League
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Karim Benzema