It is said that Cristiano only scores from penalty kicks, but the player who equaled his record for penalty kicks

Robert Lewandowski has been one of the most prolific strikers in European football over the past decade, consistently delivering goals for his club and country. This season, the Polish forward added another remarkable milestone to his career by scoring his 19th penalty goal in the UEFA Champions League, matching the record held by none other than Cristiano Ronaldo. Lewandowski's penalty against Benfica in the 7th matchday of the 2024/2025 Champions League phase not only secured a crucial victory for Barcelona but also placed him on par with one of the greatest players in the history of the competition.

Lewandowski’s Champions League Journey

Robert Lewandowski’s journey in the Champions League has been marked by incredible consistency. Having played for Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich before joining Barcelona, Lewandowski has been a key figure in every Champions League campaign he’s participated in. Known for his clinical finishing and sharp instincts in front of goal, Lewandowski has proven time and again that he can score in a variety of ways. However, one area in which he has excelled is his ability to convert from the penalty spot.

Lewandowski’s 19th penalty goal came in a match against Benfica, where Barcelona managed to secure a 2-1 win. His successful spot-kick in this high-stakes game was crucial for Barcelona's aspirations in the competition and demonstrated Lewandowski’s composure in pressure situations. Scoring from the penalty spot is often a delicate matter, with goalkeepers knowing the player’s tendencies and the pressure mounting with each passing minute of a knockout game. However, Lewandowski has thrived in these moments, showcasing his expertise from the spot.

This penalty goal saw him match Cristiano Ronaldo’s tally of 19 Champions League penalties. For Lewandowski, this is a testament to his consistency and his ability to deliver in the most important European competition. It is a reminder of just how many times Lewandowski has been entrusted with penalties and how many times he has successfully executed them.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Champions League Penalty Record

Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has left an indelible mark on the Champions League. Throughout his career, Ronaldo has broken numerous records in Europe’s premier club competition, and one of those records is his tally of 19 penalty goals, a feat he achieved during his time with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

Ronaldo’s reputation as a penalty taker is well established. His powerful and accurate strikes from the spot have become a hallmark of his game. Whether it was during his early days in Manchester or his later years in Madrid, Ronaldo has maintained an impressive conversion rate from the penalty spot. His 19th penalty came after years of consistently scoring from 12 yards, and the record was seen as a symbol of his ability to remain composed under pressure, often converting in crucial moments of Champions League matches.

Ronaldo’s penalty record is particularly impressive considering the number of high-pressure situations in which he has found himself. From late goals in knockout rounds to converting in penalty shootouts, Ronaldo has shown the mental fortitude needed to excel in these situations. His ability to step up time and time again has contributed significantly to his team's success in the Champions League, including five titles across his illustrious career.

Lewandowski vs. Ronaldo: A Comparative Look

When comparing Lewandowski and Ronaldo, the similarities between their penalty-taking records are striking. Both players have an incredible level of composure when stepping up to take a penalty, a skill that has set them apart from other top strikers. Lewandowski, like Ronaldo, is known for his calm demeanor and technique from the spot. He typically strikes with precision, aiming for the corners, and his ability to read the goalkeeper's movements has made him a formidable presence in the penalty area.

However, it is important to note that Lewandowski’s career trajectory in the Champions League is still ongoing. While Ronaldo has had the luxury of a lengthy career at the top of European football, Lewandowski is still in the process of cementing his legacy in the competition. His achievement of matching Ronaldo’s penalty record at this stage of his career is a testament to his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.

Ronaldo’s five Champions League titles, as well as his long-standing dominance in the competition, place him in a category all his own. He has played in more than 180 Champions League matches and has been a regular fixture in knockout stages for nearly two decades. Lewandowski, on the other hand, has only been a regular in the competition since 2010, having played for Bayern Munich and now Barcelona. His record of 19 penalties scored in fewer matches is indicative of his efficiency and ability to make the most of opportunities when they arise.

The Importance of Penalties in High-Level Football

Penalties, often viewed as one of the most straightforward methods of scoring, hold significant weight in the context of high-stakes matches, particularly in the Champions League. In knockout games, penalty goals can be the difference between progressing to the next round or facing elimination. For strikers like Lewandowski and Ronaldo, who thrive in these moments, penalties become a key weapon in their arsenal.

In a tournament like the Champions League, where margins are razor-thin, having a reliable penalty taker is crucial. Both Lewandowski and Ronaldo have shown that they can be counted on when the pressure is at its highest. This ability to deliver from the penalty spot has helped both players maintain their positions as two of the most prolific goal-scorers in Champions League history.

Conclusion

Lewandowski’s recent achievement of scoring his 19th penalty goal in the Champions League and matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s record is a remarkable milestone in the Polish striker’s career. While both players have approached penalty-taking from different phases of their careers, their records highlight their ability to perform under pressure and to consistently deliver for their teams when it matters most.

With Lewandowski still active in the Champions League and continuing to play at a high level for Barcelona, there is a possibility that he could surpass Ronaldo’s record in the coming years. However, even as he matches this legendary milestone, Lewandowski has proven that he belongs among the elite players in the history of the competition.