USMNT Hopeful Ricardo Pepi Joins Elite Champions League Scorers
Ricardo Pepi, a promising forward for the United States men's national team (USMNT), has matched an impressive record in the UEFA Champions League. On Tuesday evening, Pepi scored a dramatic 93rd-minute goal to secure a 1–1 draw for PSV Eindhoven against Olympiacos.
Clutch Champions League Goal Record
Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero previously shared this remarkable feat alongside the top scorer of the tournament, Cristiano Ronaldo. Pepi's ability to score crucial late goals has placed him in this exclusive group.
Pepi's Key Late Goals
- His first Champions League goal was a 92nd-minute winner versus Sevilla in November 2023, shortly after coming on as a substitute when PSV overturned a two-goal deficit.
- Last season, PSV was trailing 2–0 to Shakhtar Donetsk when Malik Tillman scored twice in the last two minutes of regular time, followed by Pepi's winning goal in the 95th minute.
In the 33-year history of the Champions League in its modern format, no player has scored more than three second-half stoppage-time goals that changed the result, according to Opta.
Legacy of Late Winners
Pepi’s knack for dramatic goals draws parallels to the clutch performances of Ronaldo and Agüero, further establishing his reputation on Europe’s biggest stage.
Author’s summary: Ricardo Pepi has joined Ronaldo and Agüero as record holders for decisive late Champions League goals, highlighting his emerging impact in top European football.