George Ilenikhena Scores on Champions League Debut as Monaco Stuns 10-Man Barcelona
Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena made an instant impact on his Champions League debut, scoring the decisive goal in Monaco’s 2-1 victory over 10-man Barcelona. The 18-year-old substitute latched onto a long ball from Vanderson in the 71st minute, racing past the Barcelona defense and blasting his shot beyond goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Early Red Card and Akliouche’s Opening Goal
Barcelona’s Eric Garcia was shown a straight red card just 10 minutes into the game after bringing down Takumi Minamino, following a poor pass out from Ter Stegen. Monaco capitalized on their advantage shortly after, with Maghnes Akliouche calmly slotting the ball past a helpless Ter Stegen to give Monaco the lead.
Barcelona’s Equalizer and Ilenikhena’s Winner
Despite being down to 10 men, Barcelona found an equalizer through their own teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal. The young forward scored his first Champions League goal with a low shot into the bottom corner after cutting inside from a long ball.
However, Ilenikhena’s powerful strike in the 71st minute secured the win for Monaco. The goal marked the Nigerian striker’s first since joining Monaco from Royal Antwerp during the summer transfer window.
Missed Opportunities for Monaco
Monaco had chances to extend their lead, with Vanderson’s strike being pushed past the post and Minamino’s effort deflecting onto the crossbar. Late in the game, Monaco’s Folarin Balogun was awarded a penalty, but it was overturned by VAR after it was ruled that he went down too easily under a challenge from Inigo Martinez.
