The Spanaird continues to redefine what’s possible for a 17-year-old on the biggest stage
Associate Editor
1 MIN READ
Yamal is one of the hottest products to emerge from Barcelona
Yamal is one of the hottest products to emerge from Barcelona
AFP
Lamine Yamal continues to redefine what’s possible for a 17-year-old on the biggest stage of European football.
In Barcelona’s Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash against Benfica, the teenage prodigy delivered another performance for the ages, becoming the youngest player ever to score and assist in the same Champions League match at just 17 years and 241 days old.
The Spain international showcased his extraordinary talent early in the game by setting up Raphinha’s opener with a dazzling run. Yamal weaved through defenders with ease before delivering a precise pass that left his teammate with a simple finish.
Moments later, he stole the spotlight once again, scoring a sensational goal to restore Barcelona’s lead after Nicolás Otamendi had equalised.
Starting his run near the corner flag, Yamal evaded his marker and unleashed a curling strike from outside the box that nestled perfectly into the far corner, leaving Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin with no chance. The goal was reminiscent of his strike against France in the Euro 2024 semifinals.
Barcelona’s 3-1 victory on the night, and 4-1 on aggregate, secured their place in the quarter-finals, with Yamal’s brilliance at the heart of their success. His third Champions League goal of the season adds to an already staggering tally of 12 goals and 17 assists across all competitions, leaving him just one goal involvement shy of a 30 G+A campaign.
With a historic season unfolding, Yamal could soon surpass Julian Draxler’s record for the most Champions League knockout appearances before turning 18.
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