Senegalese defender Youssoupha Mbodji shines with brace on Champions League debut 

Youssoupha Mbodji made a stunning first impression in the Champions League as the young Senegalese defender marked his full debut for Slavia Prague with two goals against Bodø/Glimt.

Signed on 20 August from FC Vysočina Jihlava for around €1.2m, the 21-year-old had only featured briefly in the Czech league before being thrust into the European spotlight.

Handed a start by coach Jindřich Trpišovský, Mbodji seized the opportunity, thrilling home fans at Fortuna Arena despite Slavia being held to a 2-2 draw.

Mbodji, who came through the PSG Academy in Senegal before spells at ASC Doolé and ASC Aspa, stepped into the number 12 shirt once worn by compatriot Abdallah Sima.

The left-back was tasked with filling the void left by El Hadji Malick Diouf, who departed for West Ham this summer.

On his Champions League bow, he showed he may be more than capable of succeeding him.

His evening, however, did not begin smoothly.

An early slip almost gifted Bodø/Glimt forward Håkon Evjen a chance, and shortly after Mbodji conceded a penalty, only for Slavia goalkeeper Jindřich Staňek to make the save.

But the young full-back responded in emphatic style.

Positioned at the far post, Mbodji converted a cross from Lukáš Provod to give Slavia the lead.

In the 74th minute, he doubled his tally, once again arriving in the right place to put his side 2-0 ahead.

Though Bodø/Glimt struck twice late on to snatch a point, the night firmly belonged to the Senegalese debutant.

Trpišovský praised the decision to start Mbodji, explaining: Several factors contributed to his choice. We studied that the opponent’s right side offers the best scoring chances. He scored twice and has excellent attacking quality. We wanted a left-footed player on the left side.

The coach admitted his defender made mistakes but hailed his mentality and progress.

It was brave to start him, but we see it every day. He started with a mistake, but he confirmed his qualities. His performance was absolutely phenomenal, if I remember his level a month ago. A great performance, considering what he brings to his position.

Staňek, who denied the penalty that might have soured Mbodji’s night, echoed the praise.

Congratulations on his performance. We gave him the task of often being present at the far post, he was there twice and scored twice. I’m happy he played, I have confidence in him and I like his game. Now he has to keep working, because he has enormous potential.

For Mbodji, it was a dream debut on Europe’s grandest stage.

The challenge now will be to cement his place in Slavia’s starting XI and prove that this extraordinary first step is only the beginning.