Mbappé raises the stakes: Cristiano’s record no longer untouchable

Kylian Mbappé is just three goals away from breaking one of the most legendary records in Champions League history, and he’s doing it in a season that already feels historic. After scoring against Bayern Munich, the Real Madrid forward reached 14 goals in this campaign, matching his personal best and moving dangerously close to Cristiano Ronaldo’s mark.

The all-time record still belongs to the Portuguese icon, who scored 17 goals in the 2013/14 season, a number long considered nearly impossible to reach. But Mbappé’s current form is forcing everyone to rethink that narrative.

The French star is not only leading the scoring charts but doing so at an incredible rate: 14 goals in just 10 matches, putting direct pressure on one of the most iconic records in the tournament.

The mission: a hat-trick for history

The math is simple, but the challenge is massive. Mbappé needs at least a hat-trick in the next match to match Cristiano Ronaldo’s record, and possibly surpass it if Real Madrid manages to advance.

However, the context makes things much harder. Standing in his way is a strong and disciplined Bayern Munich, led by a Manuel Neuer who was outstanding in the first leg. On top of that, the German side holds the advantage, increasing the pressure on Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo: the ultimate Champions League benchmark

Talking about this record means talking about Cristiano Ronaldo, the player who redefined dominance in the Champions League. Not only does he hold the 17-goal record in a single season, but he also ranks second and third all-time with 16 and 15 goals respectively.

The Portuguese star didn’t just excel in numbers, but in consistency. He reached 14 or more goals in multiple seasons, something no other player has replicated at that level.

Beyond this record, his legacy in the competition is unmatched: all-time top scorer, multiple titles, and decisive performances in knockout stages. Breaking any of his records means entering the conversation among the greatest players of all time.

Failure or greatness? Munich will decide everything

The scenario is as dramatic as it is fascinating. Mbappé could deliver one of the greatest individual seasons in Champions League history… or fall just short of glory.

Even if he doesn’t break the record, his numbers already place him among the elite. However, the competitive context changes everything: being eliminated by Bayern would not only limit his chances to score more goals but also raise questions about the true impact of his campaign.

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