The UEFA Champions League has produced some of the most iconic moments in football history, none more so than in the final itself.
Here, we rank the best-ever Champions League final goals from five to one, celebrating the players and their unforgettable contributions to the beautiful game.
5. Hernan Crespo, AC Milan (2005)
Crespo’s Clinical Finish
The 2005 final in Istanbul is famous for Liverpool’s remarkable comeback, but Hernan Crespo’s contributions for AC Milan were equally memorable.
Crespo scored twice in five minutes, but his second goal stood out. Kaka’s sublime through ball set Crespo free, and his exquisite finish capped a breathtaking move.
Despite Milan's eventual loss, Crespo's goal remains one of the finest examples of counter-attacking football in a Champions League final.
4. Mario Mandzukic, Juventus (2017)
Mandzukic’s Acrobatic Marvel
Juventus and Real Madrid clashed in the 2017 final in Cardiff, and Mario Mandzukic scored one of the most acrobatic goals in Champions League history.
His overhead kick to equalize was a moment of sheer brilliance and technical perfection.
Despite Juventus eventually losing 4-1, Mandzukic’s goal was a shining moment of individual skill and athleticism that captured the imagination of football fans worldwide.
3. Diego Milito, Inter Milan (2010)
Milito’s Double Delight
In 2010, Inter Milan faced Bayern Munich in the Champions League final at Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.
Diego Milito was the hero of the night, scoring twice to secure Inter’s third European Cup and Jose Mourinho’s second. His second goal was a masterclass in attacking prowess, as he bamboozled the Bayern defence before calmly slotting the ball past Hans-Jorg Butt.
This goal epitomised Milito's poise and precision, cementing his place in Champions League lore.
2. Gareth Bale, Real Madrid (2018)
Bale’s Breathtaking Bicycle Kick
The 2018 final between Real Madrid and Liverpool featured one of the most remarkable goals ever seen in a Champions League final.
With the score tied at 1-1, Gareth Bale entered the pitch and, within two minutes, produced an extraordinary bicycle kick to give Madrid the lead.
The Welshman's acrobatic effort was a perfect combination of power, precision, and timing, leading Real Madrid to their third consecutive Champions League title and etching Bale’s name in history.
1. Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid (2002)
Zidane’s Timeless Volley
The pinnacle of Champions League final goals belongs to Zinedine Zidane for his stunning volley in 2002.
During Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Glasgow, Zidane's left-footed volley from the edge of the box off a Roberto Carlos cross is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals ever scored in the competition.
The Frenchman's technique, balance, and precision were immaculate, and his goal not only secured Real Madrid's ninth European title but also solidified Zidane’s legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.
FAQ
How were the goals ranked? The goals were ranked based on their impact, technical difficulty, historical significance, and the context in which they were scored. Factors such as the skill involved in scoring the goal, the match's importance, and the lasting legacy of the goal were all considered.
Who scored the best-ever Champions League final goal? According to our ranking, the best-ever Champions League final goal was scored by Zinedine Zidane for Real Madrid in the 2002 final against Bayer Leverkusen. His left-footed volley from the edge of the box is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in the competition's history.
Why is Zinedine Zidane’s goal ranked number one? Zidane’s goal is ranked number one because of its exceptional technical difficulty, beauty, and the significant impact it had on securing Real Madrid's ninth European title. The goal is a timeless piece of football art and is celebrated for its perfection and importance.
What makes Gareth Bale’s goal in 2018 so special? Gareth Bale’s bicycle kick in the 2018 final against Liverpool is special because of its acrobatic brilliance and the context in which it was scored. Coming on as a substitute, Bale produced a moment of magic to give Real Madrid the lead, and his goal played a crucial role in securing their third consecutive Champions League title.
How did Mario Mandzukic’s goal rank so high despite Juventus losing the match? Mario Mandzukic’s goal in the 2017 final is ranked high due to its incredible technical execution. His overhead kick was a moment of individual brilliance that temporarily equalized the match, showcasing his skill and athleticism even though Juventus eventually lost to Real Madrid.
Why is Hernan Crespo’s goal from 2005 remembered despite AC Milan's loss? Hernan Crespo’s goal is remembered for its exquisite finish and the brilliance of the assist from Kaka. Despite AC Milan’s loss in one of the most famous comebacks in Champions League history, Crespo’s goal stands out for its quality and the beauty of the play leading up to it.
What made Diego Milito’s performance in the 2010 final so notable? Diego Milito’s performance in the 2010 final is notable because he scored both goals in Inter Milan’s 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich. His second goal, in particular, showcased his composure and skill, securing Inter’s third European Cup and marking a memorable night for the club and Milito himself.
Are there other memorable goals not included in this top-five ranking? Yes, there are many other memorable goals scored in Champions League finals that are not included in this top-five ranking. Goals by players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, Lionel Messi, and Sergio Ramos are also celebrated for their significance and impact in their respective finals.
