Cristiano Ronaldo's Champions League record is tied! Raphinha's late strike for Barcelona in Inter classic equals European goal involvement history

Raphinha etched his name into the Champions League history books after equalling Ronaldo’s long-standing record for the most goal involvements in a single campaign. The Brazilian struck late in a pulsating 4-3 loss to Inter, bringing his tally to a staggering 21 goal contributions in the 2024–25 tournament.

Ronaldo had set the benchmark during Real Madrid’s victorious run in 2013–14, registering 17 goals and four assists over the course of the competition. That campaign concluded with a decisive penalty from the Portuguese icon in the final against Atlético Madrid, securing a 4-1 triumph in extra time and delivering Real’s coveted “La Decima.” Now, over a decade later, Raphinha has matched that iconic figure with a dazzling blend of goals and assists that have driven Barcelona’s charge through Europe this season. However, his late effort was not enough to fire Barcelona over the line as Inter emerged 4-3 winners, thanks to an extra-time goal from Davide Frattesi.

Under new boss Hansi Flick, Raphinha has flourished in a revitalised Barca setup. He’s amassed 13 goals and eight assists across 12 Champions League appearances this term. Thanks to UEFA’s revamped Champions League structure introduced this season, Raphinha and his team-mates played two additional fixtures in the group stage. Overall, across all competitions, he has 31 goals and 25 assists in 52 appearances.

Raphinha will be back in action for another titanic clash this weekend as they are set to face arch-rivals Real Madrid in a crucial La Liga fixture. With domestic points at a premium and the title race still open, the pressure will be on both sides.