Max Dowman etched his name into the record books once again as Arsenal secured a 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
The England youth international is enjoying a breakthrough campaign, already racking up nine senior appearances in all competitions as he continues to earn the trust of his manager.
Dowman, aged just 16 years and 97 days, became the youngest player ever to feature in a Champions League knockout match, after he replaced Noni Madueke late on in the second half.
After making his senior bow in a pre-season clash with AC Milan at 15, Dowman went on to make Premier League history with his debut against Leeds United during the 2024/25 season.
At 15 years and 235 days, he became the second-youngest player to appear in the competition, behind teammate Ethan Nwaneri.
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Dowman became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history after his late solo strike sealed a 2-0 win over Everton at Emirates Stadium last month.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have been handed a boost ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg.
Kai Havertz's goal proved decisive in Lisbon, as the German international fired home a 91st-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli's assist to hand Arsenal a narrow lead.
Sporting did threaten, particularly in the final third, but David Raya stood firm producing five saves, including a superb fingertip stop to deny Araujo.
Kai Havertz on David Raya:
“Unbelievable. I think still underestimated in the world of football but for me, the last two seasons, the best keeper in the world. He's outstanding, he's saved us so many times and we're very glad to have him." pic.twitter.com/am7hhAePv5
— Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley) April 7, 2026
Crucially, Sporting will be without striker Luis Suarez for the second leg at the Emirates after his suspension.
The forward was signed last summer to replace Viktor Gyokeres and has been a standout performer with 33 goals and seven assists in 43 appearances.
He has also impressed in Europe, contributing five goals and two assists, including a brace in a shock 2-1 victory over holders Paris Saint-Germain.
His absence is a blow for the Portuguese side, with Fotis Ioannidis also sidelined through injury, responsibility is likely to fall on academy graduate Rafael Nel.
The 21-year-old has limited top-level experience, making just five appearances this season and scoring twice.
Arsenal fixture schedule: Next five games
Arsenal vs. Bournemouth | Premier League | Saturday, April 11
Arsenal vs. Sporting CP | Champions League quarterfinal, second leg | Wednesday, April 15
Man City vs. Arsenal | Premier League | Sunday, April 19
Arsenal vs. Newcastle | Premier League | Saturday, April 25
Arsenal vs. Fulham | Premier League | Saturday, May 02