Nigerian teenager George Ilenikhena stole the show, scoring the winning goal in the 71st minute, helping Monaco to a 2-1 victory over Barcelona on Thursday evening.
Hansi Flick’s perfect start as Barcelona manager came to an abrupt end in the Champions League as his team suffered defeat for the first time this season.
George Ilenikhena hands Monaco crucial win
The decisive strike came after Barcelona had been reduced to ten men following Eric Garcia’s red card earlier in the match.
Monaco had opened the scoring through Akliouche, but Lamine Yamal quickly equalized for Barcelona just before halftime. However, Ilenikhena’s goal proved to be the difference, handing Monaco a valuable victory in the competition.
Watch goal as posted by Goal Xtra on X:
George Ilenikhena has given the lead to Monaco against Barcelona!https://t.co/NaLgm0MSMh
— Goals Xtra (@GoalsXtra) September 19, 2024
Ilenikhena continued his impressive record against Barcelona, scoring his second goal in three matches against the Catalan giants, having scored against the Spanish giants during his first UEFA Champions League season with Royal Antwerp.
The Nigerian sensation scored a late winner as the Belgian side emerged 3-2 winners over the Spanish powerhouse in the Champions League the previous season.
Ilenikhena moved to Monaco this summer from Royal Antwerp for €18.75 million and has made five appearances for the Lig. 1 side.
He scored his first goal for Monaco on Thursday night in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, in other news, a Chelsea legend commended Ballon d’Or contender Ademola Lookman for his smart decision to pick the Super eagles of Nigeria.
