USMNT Hopeful Ricardo Pepi Equals Cristiano Ronaldo’s Late-Game Record
Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero once shared an equally remarkable record, yet the top spot among clutch Champions League scorers remains occupied by Cristiano Ronaldo, the competition’s most prolific player. Now, another name joins this elite group — Ricardo Pepi, a rising talent for the United States men's national team (USMNT).
On Tuesday evening, Pepi scored his third decisive stoppage-time goal in the Champions League, securing a 1–1 draw for PSV Eindhoven against Olympiacos. The goal came in the 93rd minute, highlighting his growing reputation for delivering when it matters most.
“Pepi has a habit for pulling the rabbit out of the hat on big European nights.”
The American forward’s first-ever Champions League goal came in November 2023, when he struck a 92nd-minute winner versus Sevilla. Despite being on the field for only ten minutes, Pepi managed to complete a thrilling comeback after PSV had trailed by two goals.
In another remarkable performance last season, PSV faced a 2–0 deficit against Shakhtar Donetsk during the league phase. Malik Tillman leveled the score with two late goals before Pepi sealed victory with a 95th-minute strike.
According to Opta, in the 33-year history of the modern Champions League, no other player has scored more than Pepi’s three stoppage-time goals that directly changed the outcome of matches.
Author’s Summary
Ricardo Pepi’s ability to score decisive Champions League goals places him in legendary company alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Agüero, underscoring his rapid rise in European football.