15 best penalty takers in football history

November 18, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Penalty kicks can define careers and decide championships. From legendary forwards to a goal-scoring goalkeeper, these 15 players stood out for their nerves of steel and deadly precision from 12 yards. Ranked by their success rate (minimum 50 penalties), here are football’s finest from the spot — starting from number 15.

15. Erling Haaland (Norway – 83%)

Photo: Jose Breton- Pics Action / Shutterstock.com

A physical powerhouse with a goal instinct like no other, Erling Haaland has already cemented his reputation as a lethal striker. With 52 successful penalties out of 62 attempts, the Manchester City star shows no signs of slowing down.

14. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal – 83%)

Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible tally of 179 converted penalties from 214 speaks volumes about his longevity and mentality. Even with 35 misses, the sheer volume of goals keeps him among the most reliable spot-kick takers in history.

13. Steven Gerrard (England – 85%)

The former Liverpool captain scored 46 of his 55 penalties, often stepping up in high-pressure moments. Though five of his nine career misses came later in his career, his overall record remains excellent.

12. Frank Lampard (England – 85%)

Chelsea’s all-time top scorer didn’t just shine from open play — Lampard scored 61 penalties from 72 attempts. His ability to remain composed, even in deeply emotional moments like the 2008 Champions League semi-final, sets him apart.

11. Harry Kane (England – 88%)

England’s top scorer has netted 96 of his 108 penalties, reflecting his coolness under pressure. Kane is known for his consistency and mental strength, despite one high-profile miss at the 2022 World Cup.

10. Bruno Fernandes (Portugal – 88%)

Since arriving at Manchester United, Fernandes has made penalty-taking his trademark, converting 62 of 70 career spot-kicks. His skipping run-up may be unorthodox, but his results are undeniable.

9. Robert Lewandowski (Poland – 89%)

The Polish legend has scored 88 out of 99 penalties, showcasing his clinical nature for both club and country. From second-division Polish football to Champions League semi-finals, Lewandowski rarely falters.

8. Rogerio Ceni (Brazil – 90%)

As a goalkeeper, Rogerio Ceni’s record is extraordinary — 47 goals from 52 penalties. A true icon for Sao Paulo, Ceni’s legacy includes more goals than many strikers will ever manage.

7. Mario Balotelli (Italy – 91%)

Unpredictable on the pitch, Balotelli was almost automatic from the penalty spot, converting 48 out of 53. His casual, stuttered approach fooled keepers and showcased his unique flair.

6. Alan Shearer (England – 92%)

The Premier League’s all-time top scorer wasn’t just prolific in open play — Shearer scored 72 of his 78 penalties. Fittingly, his final career goal was a thumping penalty in a derby win.

5. Marco van Basten (Netherlands – 93%)

Before injuries cut his career short, Van Basten scored 51 of 55 spot-kicks. His 93% success rate reflects the clinical edge that made him one of the greatest strikers of his era.

4. Rickie Lambert (England – 94%)

Lambert’s penalty record is the stuff of legends — especially at Southampton, where he scored every one he took. Overall, he converted 51 out of 54 penalties, proving his reliability across the leagues.

3. Hugo Sánchez (Mexico – 94%)

Hugo Sanchez — By Bogaerts, Rob / Anefo - Nationaal Archief, CC BY-SA 3.0 nl, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=106188062

The Mexican icon scored 74 of 79 penalties, many using his signature stutter-step to confuse goalkeepers. His penalty style was as effective as it was iconic, especially during his Real Madrid days.

2. Ronald Koeman (Netherlands – 94%)

A defender by trade, Koeman's goal tally is jaw-dropping, and 97 of those came from penalties. Known for both power and finesse, his record includes a streak of 25 consecutive La Liga conversions.

1. Cuauhtémoc Blanco (Mexico – 97%)

Blanco tops the list with an unbelievable 71 goals from 73 penalties. From the 2010 World Cup to Liga MX, his composure and eye for placement made him virtually unstoppable from the spot.