Mezian Mesloub sets Portugal Under-21 record at just 16

Mezian Mesloub has become the youngest player ever to start a match for Portugal Under-21s, making history at the age of 16 years, eight months and 22 days.

The Racing Club de Lens winger started Portugal’s 4-0 victory over Gibraltar on Wednesday, setting a new record for the country’s Under-21 side, according to Mediasportif.

The landmark appearance adds to an impressive start to the season for Mesloub, whose rapid progress at club level has brought him increasing attention in France and Portugal.

Rapid rise at Racing Club de Lens

Mesloub has emerged as one of the early breakthroughs of the Ligue 1 campaign, despite Racing Club de Lens having won only one of their first five league matches.

The club have nevertheless recorded notable results, beating Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the Trophee des champions before defeating Slavia Prague 2-1 in the Champions League.

That European fixture proved to be an important moment in Mesloub’s development. Introduced as a substitute, the teenager immediately impressed with his confidence, technical ability and willingness to take on opponents.

He also provided the assist for Florian Thauvin, a contribution that helped draw further attention to the young winger. Since then, Mesloub has continued to move through the stages of his career at remarkable speed.

Following another substitute appearance against Le Mans, he was handed his first start for Lens against AS Monaco before the international break. Although Lens lost 2-1, the selection underlined the trust placed in the 16-year-old.

Historic international debut

Mesloub’s performances at club level quickly attracted the attention of Portuguese football officials. The Portuguese Football Federation responded by selecting him for the Under-21 squad, giving the winger the chance to make history at an unusually young age.

Named in the starting line-up against Gibraltar, Mesloub surpassed every previous player to have begun a match for Portugal Under-21s. His age at kick-off 16 years, eight months and 22 days made him the youngest starter in the team’s history.

The Lens player was applauded by the Portuguese crowd when he was substituted. His energetic display, confident approach and willingness to take possession were recognised during an appearance that had already secured a place in the record books.

Mesloub, who is of Algerian origin, has now made an impression in Ligue 1, the Champions League and with Portugal Under-21s before turning 17. His record as the youngest-ever Portugal Under-21 player may prove to be the first of several milestones in what has been a rapid rise.

Racing Club de Lens will next face Lyon in the sixth round of the French championship.