Despite scoring a stunning goal, the young Spanish striker could not help Barcelona secure a victory.
Monaco capitalized on their numerical advantage to claim a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the opening match of the 2024-25 Champions League.
Barcelona was reduced to 10 men from the 10th minute when Eric Garcia received a red card for pulling down Takumi Minamino after a misplaced pass from goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Monaco took just six minutes to exploit this advantage, as Maghnes Akliouche received the ball on the right flank, cut into Barcelona’s penalty area, and delivered a beautiful low shot into the bottom corner of the net.
In their moment of despair, Barcelona unexpectedly found hope through a brilliant play from Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old star showcased his ability to create chances with a precise shot just outside the 16-yard box, becoming the second youngest goalscorer in the tournament after teammate Ansu Fati.
Fati achieved this feat at just 17 years and 40 days old, while Yamal scored at 17 years and 68 days.
However, the numerical disadvantage hindered Barcelona’s ability to control the game. After numerous attacking attempts, Monaco eventually restored their lead when 18-year-old George Ilenikhena broke free and scored on his first appearance in the tournament.
Highlights
Red Card for Eric Garcia
Barcelona was reduced to 10 men in the 10th minute when Garcia was sent off for a foul on Minamino as the forward was charging into the penalty area.
A misplaced pass from Ter Stegen put the Spanish player in trouble, leading to Garcia’s red card for fouling Minamino.
Goal by Maghnes Akliouche against Barcelona (16th minute, Monaco 1-0 Barcelona)
The numerical advantage allowed AS Monaco to easily execute their game plan. Akliouche struck a stunning shot into the bottom corner after penetrating Barcelona’s penalty area.
Goal by Lamine Yamal against Monaco (28th minute, Monaco 1-1 Barcelona)
Barcelona surprisingly equalized in the 28th minute, marking the first goal for the talented teenager Yamal in the Champions League.
The forward found space just outside Monaco’s penalty area before unleashing a precise low shot.
Goal by George Ilenikhena against Barcelona (71st minute, Monaco 2-1 Barcelona)
Monaco took the lead against Barcelona, marking a memorable moment for 18-year-old Ilenikhena, who broke through to score his first goal on his Champions League debut.
Player of the Match: Vanderson
Vanderson was on Barcelona’s radar during the last summer transfer window, and he once again proved his worth by contributing two assists in a brilliant overall performance in the Champions League.
Additionally, this right-back won two aerial duels and completed 31 accurate passes.
Statistics
Ball possession: Monaco 52%-48% Barcelona
Shots: Monaco 15-4 Barcelona
Shots on target: Monaco 8-1 Barcelona
Corners: Monaco 10-0 Barcelona
Fouls: Monaco 14-14 Barcelona
What’s Next?
Barcelona will aim for their sixth consecutive win when they return to La Liga, where they will face Villarreal away this weekend; their next European match will be against Young Boys in early October.
Meanwhile, Monaco will take on Le Havre in Ligue 1, and Les Monegasques will continue their Champions League campaign with an away trip to Dinamo Zagreb on October 2.