The UEFA Champions League is the pinnacle of club football, bringing together the best teams from across Europe. Over the years, English players have played crucial roles in defining the history of the competition. But have you ever wondered—who is the first English player to score in the Champions League final in football history?

In this article, we will explore the answer, provide historical context, and delve into the impact of English players in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.

A Brief History of the Champions League

Before we reveal the first English player to score in a Champions League final, it is important to understand the tournament’s origins.

The UEFA Champions League, originally called the European Cup, was founded in 1955. It was rebranded in 1992, making it more commercially viable and globally recognized. English teams have had a significant presence in the competition, producing legendary performances and unforgettable moments.

Who Is the First English Player to Score in the Champions League Final?

The first English player to score in a Champions League final in football history was Teddy Sheringham. The former Manchester United forward scored in the 1999 UEFA Champions League final against Bayern Munich.

The Historic 1999 UEFA Champions League Final

On May 26, 1999, Manchester United faced Bayern Munich at the Camp Nou in Barcelona. It was the climax of an incredible season for Sir Alex Ferguson’s team, as they were on the verge of completing a historic treble—winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.

The Match: Drama, Tension, and an Unforgettable Comeback

Bayern Munich took an early lead in the 6th minute when Mario Basler’s free-kick found the net, putting the German side ahead. United struggled to break down Bayern’s disciplined defense, and as the match entered injury time, it seemed like the trophy was slipping away.

However, Teddy Sheringham changed history. In the 91st minute, he scored the equalizer with a well-placed shot after a corner from David Beckham was flicked on by Ryan Giggs.

Just two minutes later, Ole Gunnar Solskjær completed the comeback by scoring the winning goal. United won 2-1, sealing their historic treble and making the night one of the most iconic moments in football history.

Why Was Sheringham’s Goal So Significant?

• First English Player to Score in a Champions League Final – No other Englishman had achieved this feat in the competition’s modern era before him.
• Key Role in the Greatest Comeback – His goal sparked the comeback that secured Manchester United’s treble.
• Cemented His Legacy – Sheringham became a Manchester United legend for his contribution to that unforgettable night.

Teddy Sheringham

English Players Who Scored in Champions League Finals After Sheringham

Since Sheringham’s historic goal, several English players have followed in his footsteps by scoring in Champions League finals. Here are some of the notable names:

1. Steven Gerrard (2005 – Liverpool vs. AC Milan)

• In the famous Istanbul final, Liverpool were 3-0 down at halftime against AC Milan.
• Gerrard started Liverpool’s comeback by scoring a header early in the second half.
• Liverpool won on penalties after a 3-3 draw, securing one of the greatest comebacks in football history.

2. Frank Lampard (2008 – Chelsea vs. Manchester United)

• Lampard scored Chelsea’s equalizer in the 2008 final against Manchester United.
• The match ended 1-1 after extra time, but United won the penalty shootout 6-5 in Moscow.

3. Wayne Rooney (2011 – Manchester United vs. Barcelona)

• Rooney scored a brilliant goal in the 2011 final against Barcelona.
• Despite his efforts, United lost 3-1 to a dominant Barcelona side led by Lionel Messi.

4. Trent Alexander-Arnold & Other Liverpool Scorers (2019 – Liverpool vs. Tottenham)

• Liverpool won 2-0 against Tottenham, with Trent Alexander-Arnold playing a key role in the buildup to goals by Mohamed Salah and Divock Origi.
• Even though no English player scored in the final, it was a historic win for Liverpool’s English contingent.

5. Mason Mount (2021 – Chelsea vs. Manchester City)

• Mount provided the crucial assist for Kai Havertz’s winning goal as Chelsea defeated Manchester City 1-0.
• Though he didn’t score, his contribution was vital in Chelsea’s second Champions League triumph.

The Impact of English Players in Champions League History

English players have played crucial roles in the history of the UEFA Champions League. From Sheringham’s legendary goal in 1999 to modern stars like Mason Mount and Trent Alexander-Arnold, their influence has grown over the years.

Why Do English Players Shine in the Champions League?

1. Premier League’s High Intensity – The English Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in the world. This prepares English players for the fast-paced and high-pressure environment of the Champions League.

2. World-Class Coaching – English clubs attract some of the best managers, such as Pep Guardiola, Jürgen Klopp, and Sir Alex Ferguson, who help develop homegrown talent.

3. Investment in Youth Academies – Clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool have world-class academies that produce top English talent.

4. Experience in High-Stakes Matches – Playing in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Premier League title races ensures that English players are used to handling pressure.

Conclusion

So, who is the first English player to score in the Champions League final in football history? The answer is Teddy Sheringham, whose goal in the 1999 final for Manchester United against Bayern Munich remains one of the most important moments in football history.

Since then, several English players have made their mark on the Champions League final, continuing the legacy of English excellence in European football.

As the competition continues to evolve, there’s no doubt that future English stars will rise to the occasion and create more unforgettable moments on football’s biggest club stage.