The UEFA Champions League has provided football fans with countless memorable moments and epic encounters throughout its storied history. From last-gasp comebacks to gravity-defying headers, here are some of the most entertaining Champions League final moments in history,
Lionel Messi's gravity-defying header (2009)
In the 2009 final between Barcelona and Manchester United, Lionel Messi scored a stunning header that defied gravity. Rising above United defender Patrice Evra, Messi hung in the air before nodding the ball past goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.
Sergio Ramos' injury-time equalizer (2014)
In the 2014 final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, Sergio Ramos scored a dramatic injury-time equalizer to force extra time. Real Madrid went on to win 4-1, securing their tenth European Cup.
Steven Gerrard's long-range strike (2005)
In the Miracle of Istanbul final, Steven Gerrard scored a stunning header to kickstart Liverpool's comeback. His goal, which flew into the far side of the net, gave Liverpool hope and set the stage for their historic victory.
Cristiano Ronaldo's overhead kick (2018)
In the 2018 final between Real Madrid and Liverpool, Cristiano Ronaldo scored one of the greatest goals in Champions League history. His overhead kick, which flew into the top corner of the net, left Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius with no chance.
Didier Drogba's penalty shootout heroics (2012)
In the 2012 final between Chelsea and Bayern Munich, Didier Drogba scored a late equalizer in the 87th minute to force extra time, before scoring the winning penalty in the shootout. His heroics helped secure Chelsea's first ever Champions League title.
Barcelona's 4-0 win over AC Milan (1994)
Milan boss Fabio Capello described this as "perfection" after his side completed the most emphatic final win in UEFA Champions League history. Johan Cruyff's Barcelona looked like favorites on paper ahead of the decider in Athens but were outplayed on the day, with Daniele Massaro striking twice before the interval and Dejan Savićević and Marcel Desailly adding further goals.
