harry Kane, Sergio Aguero, mohamed Salah

The 20 players with the most match-winning goals in Premier League history – Ranked

October 20, 2025 Oliver Obel

In the history of the Premier League, some players have stood out not just for scoring goals, but for scoring the ones that truly matter — the goals that decide matches. These clutch moments define legacies, lift trophies, and create legends. Here are the top 20 players with the most match-winning goals in Premier League history, starting from number 20 and working our way to the top.

20. Sadio Mané – 37 Match-Winning Goals

Sadio Mané was a decisive force during his time at Liverpool F.C.. His pace, movement and finishing made him a nightmare for defenders. Many of his 37 match-winning strikes came in crucial title races and high-stakes fixtures.

19. Robbie Fowler – 37 Match-Winning Goals

Robbie Fowler was a natural finisher whose goalscoring instinct earned him legendary status at Liverpool. Known as “God” by the fans, Fowler consistently delivered when the game hung in the balance. His left foot was often the difference in tight contests.

18. Jamie Vardy – 38 Match-Winning Goals

Jamie Vardy rose from non-league football to become a Premier League champion with Leicester City F.C.. His blistering pace and lethal finishing made him a constant threat. Many of his goals came in iconic moments, including Leicester’s stunning 2015–16 title run.

17. Raheem Sterling – 39 Match-Winning Goals

Raheem Sterling became known for his intelligent movement and decisive runs into the box. His goals were vital during the dominant years of Manchester City F.C. under Pep Guardiola. Sterling’s knack for late winners turned him into a match-winner.

16. Cristiano Ronaldo – 39 Match-Winning Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo lit up the Premier League with moments of pure brilliance. Whether it was his first spell with Manchester United F.C. or his dramatic return years later, Ronaldo always delivered in decisive games. His clutch goals often secured vital points and unforgettable wins.

15. Les Ferdinand – 39 Match-Winning Goals

Les Ferdinand was a powerhouse striker in the 1990s. His aerial dominance and clinical finishing made him a reliable goalscorer for multiple clubs. His match-winning goals were key to his reputation as one of the league’s most consistent forwards.

14. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink – 39 Match-Winning Goals

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink brought power and precision to the Premier League. He was known for his thunderous shots and his ability to score in high-pressure situations. His match-winning goals made him a fan favourite at several clubs, including Chelsea F.C..

13. Emile Heskey – 39 Match-Winning Goals

Emile Heskey might not have been the flashiest striker, but his contribution was crucial. His strength and hold-up play allowed him to create and finish decisive chances. His match-winning strikes were often underrated but extremely valuable.

12. Jermain Defoe – 41 Match-Winning Goals

Jermain Defoe was one of the Premier League’s most natural goalscorers. His quick feet and lethal finishing helped him secure wins for every team he played for. Defoe’s 41 match-winning goals underline his reliability in front of goal.

11. Robin van Persie – 42 Match-Winning Goals

Robin van Persie was a technical genius with a deadly left foot. Whether at Arsenal F.C. or Manchester United, he scored goals that changed the course of matches. His ability to deliver in key moments made him one of the league’s most feared forwards.

10. Ryan Giggs – 42 Match-Winning Goals

Ryan Giggs was a symbol of consistency and longevity. Playing his entire career at Manchester United, he often stepped up when it mattered most. His match-winning goals came through bursts of skill, intelligence and composure.

9. Dwight Yorke – 45 Match-Winning Goals

Dwight Yorke was a key figure during Manchester United’s glory years. His link-up play and finishing were world-class. Many of his match-winning goals came in one of the club’s most successful periods.

8. Andy Cole – 46 Match-Winning Goals

Andy Cole’s partnership with Yorke was legendary, but his individual record was equally impressive. A natural finisher, he could decide games in an instant. His 46 match-winning goals reflect his crucial role in his teams’ success.

7. Sergio Agüero – 50 Match-Winning Goals

Sergio Agüero is synonymous with unforgettable Premier League moments. His last-minute goals, including the iconic 2012 title winner, defined a generation for Manchester City. His ability to score under pressure was unmatched.

6. Mohamed Salah – 56 Match-Winning Goals

Mohamed Salah has been a relentless force since arriving at Liverpool. His speed, sharpness and goal-scoring instincts have turned tight games in his team’s favour. He remains one of the most decisive players in modern Premier League history.

5. Thierry Henry – 59 Match-Winning Goals

Thierry Henry brought elegance and ruthlessness to the league. At Arsenal F.C., he scored goals that lifted entire teams and electrified crowds. His match-winning strikes were often moments of pure brilliance.

3. Frank Lampard – 61 Match-Winning Goals

Frank Lampard was not just a midfielder but a goal machine. His timing and technique made him a constant threat from midfield. His 61 match-winning goals reflect his consistency and leadership at Chelsea F.C..

3. Harry Kane – 61 Match-Winning Goals

Harry Kane’s record speaks for itself. A complete striker, his ability to score decisive goals has made him one of the Premier League’s most dangerous forwards. His match-winning goals came against the best, often when it mattered most.

2. Wayne Rooney – 66 Match-Winning Goals

Wayne Rooney was the heartbeat of Manchester United for years. His fierce determination and big-game mentality made him a constant threat. His 66 match-winning goals highlight how often he carried his team over the line.

1. Alan Shearer – 68 Match-Winning Goals

Alan Shearer remains the ultimate match-winner in Premier League history. A born goalscorer, he combined power, precision and leadership to decide countless games. His 68 match-winning goals stand as a record that embodies his legendary status.