English-Nigerian youngster Tyrique George calls first Champions League goal ‘a dream come true’

Chelsea’s Tyrique George described his first UEFA Champions League goal as a dream come true after netting in the Blues’ emphatic 5-1 win over Ajax at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

The 18-year-old, who has Ghanaian and Nigerian heritage, came off the bench to score his first goal in Europe’s elite competition, sealing a memorable night for Chelsea’s young side.

It was another glimpse of the attacking freedom that manager Enzo Maresca has encouraged in his squad this season.

“It was a really good night,” George said after the game.

“I’m really happy to score my first Champions League goal and it was a great win. We played well, we had fun out there as well.

“It’s the Champions League, so we had fun — it’s good.”

The academy graduate said his moment came instinctively.

“I was just itching to get on and try and score. That’s what I did, so I’m happy,” he said. “I kind of just saw the ball lying there, so I thought let me get onto it and just hit it — and it went in.”

George, who has been with Chelsea since the age of eight, said scoring in Europe’s top competition fulfilled a lifelong ambition.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “I’ve wanted it ever since I was eight years old — to score in the Champions League. It’s what dreams are made of.”

The winger’s goal capped a strong team performance for Maresca’s side, who now top their Champions League group after back-to-back wins.

George’s emergence adds to the growing list of Cobham Academy graduates making their mark at senior level for the club.