Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal added another milestone to his rapidly growing résumé by becoming just the second player under the age of 18 to start a UEFA Champions League semi-final, joining former German international Julian Draxler in an exclusive group.
Yamal, who has roots in both Morocco and Equatorial Guinea, started for Barcelona against Inter Milan at just 17 years and 291 days old during Wednesday night’s thrilling 3-3 first-leg draw at the Estadi Olímpic.
Until now, only Draxler had achieved a similar feat — turning out for Schalke 04 in a semi-final clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford in May 2011.
Barcelona’s teenage sensation didn’t just make history with his selection — he also left a significant mark on the match.
With the Catalans trailing 2-0 early in the first half after goals from Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries for Inter Milan, Yamal sparked his side’s revival with a stunning solo effort.
Skipping past multiple defenders, the winger bent a shot into the far corner via the inside of the post, bringing Barcelona back into the contest and becoming the youngest player to score in a Champions League semi-final in the process.
His goal helped level the score by halftime, with Ferran Torres also getting on the scoresheet.
Yamal’s display was marked by fearless dribbling, intelligent movement, and a near second goal that was denied only by the crossbar.
The draw leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the second leg at San Siro, with Yamal set to play a key role once again as Barcelona chase a place in the Champions League final.
