Aden McCarthy scores first Champions League goal as Sabah FK lose to Borussia Dortmund

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy scored his maiden UEFA Champions League goal, but Sabah FK were beaten 2-1 by Borussia Dortmund in Baku on Tuesday night.

The 22-year-old centre-back drew Azerbaijani champions Sabah FK level six minutes before half-time, rising above the Dortmund defence to head in from a free-kick.

It was McCarthy’s first goal in the competition on only his third appearance, marking a significant moment in his progress since leaving Naturena.

Borussia Dortmund restored their lead in the second half through Serhou Guirassy, whose goal secured victory for the German club. McCarthy nevertheless remained influential at the other end, producing a crucial goal-line clearance to prevent Guirassy from completing a hat-trick.

The performance underlined how quickly McCarthy has developed since moving from Soweto to Azerbaijan. The defender, whose father is former Bafana Bafana player Fabian McCarthy, has established himself as a key member of the Sabah FK team.

McCarthy has played in every domestic match for the club this season, helping them remain top of the table while adapting to the greater pace and physical demands of European football.

His goal against Borussia Dortmund followed an impressive clean-sheet display against Slavia Prague earlier in the tournament. Facing a side who have previously reached the UEFA Champions League final, McCarthy again showed he could compete against high-level opposition.

Although Sabah FK could not hold on for a point, the defender’s contribution provided another important marker in his career. His performances in Azerbaijan and in Europe are likely to attract the attention of Bafana Bafana selectors.