The UEFA Champions League is a stage reserved for the very best in world football — but sometimes, it’s the youngest stars who steal the spotlight. Over the years, several teenagers have made history by scoring before even turning 18. Here’s a look at the 10 youngest goalscorers in the competition’s history.
10. Breel Embolo – 17 years, 263 days
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The powerful Swiss striker netted for FC Basel against Ludogorets in 2014. Known for his physical presence and energy, this early goal marked the start of a career that would take him to the Bundesliga and the Swiss national team.
9. Martin Klein – 17 years, 240 days
Photo: national-football-teams.com
A rather unique entry as a defender, Klein scored for Sparta Prague against Panathinaikos in 2002. His goal was a rare moment of attacking brilliance from a player known more for his defensive duties.
Before he became a Premier League legend, Fàbregas opened his Champions League account with Arsenal against Rosenborg in 2004. His vision and intelligence were already far beyond his years.
7. Bojan Krkić – 17 years, 217 days
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The Barcelona forward scored against Schalke 04 in 2008 and was once considered a future global star. While his career didn’t match the early hype, Bojan still left his mark on European football.
6. Mateo Kovačić – 17 years, 215 days
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Long before his Champions League triumphs with Real Madrid and Chelsea, Kovačić found the net for Dinamo Zagreb against Lyon in 2011. It was an early sign of his class in midfield.
5. Peter Ofori-Quaye – 17 years, 194 days
Photo: ghanasoccernet.com
The Ghanaian striker made history for Olympiacos in 1997 by scoring against Rosenborg. He held the record as the youngest goalscorer in the competition for more than 20 years.
4. Antonio Nusa – 17 years, 149 days
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The Norwegian winger made headlines when he scored for Club Brugge against Porto in 2022. His pace and directness earned him recognition as one of Scandinavia’s brightest talents.
3. George Ilenikhena – 17 years, 119 days
Photo: asmonaco.com
A rising star from Royal Antwerp, Ilenikhena scored against Barcelona in December 2023. His composure in front of goal at such a young age signaled the arrival of a major talent in Belgian football.
2. Lamine Yamal – 17 years, 68 days
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Barcelona’s latest sensation, Yamal scored his first Champions League goal against Monaco in 2024. In 2025, he became the youngest ever to score in a semi-final, confirming his place among Europe’s elite wonderkids.
1. Ansu Fati – 17 years, 40 days
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Still holding the record as the youngest ever goalscorer in the Champions League, Ansu Fati struck against Inter Milan in 2019. The Barcelona winger showed incredible composure and became an instant sensation at Camp Nou.
Oliver Obel – Sports Content Creator & Football Specialist
I’m a passionate Sports Content Creator with a strong focus on football. I write for LenteDesportiva, where I produce high-quality content that informs, entertains, and connects with football fans around the world.
My work revolves around player rankings, transfer analysis, and in-depth features that explore the modern game. I combine a sharp editorial instinct with a deep understanding of football’s evolution, always aiming to deliver content that captures both insight and emotion.
