Barcelona sensation on the verge of equalling special Champions League record held by Kylian Mbappe | OneFootball

Barcelona head into their decisive Champions League clash against Newcastle United with everything on the line, with Lamine Yamal perfectly positioned to take centre stage.

The 1-1 draw in the first leg has left no room for complacency, which is why at Spotify Camp Nou, the expectations will be very high. 

In that context, Yamal’s freshness could prove decisive. Having been carefully managed in recent matches, the teenager arrives physically sharp and mentally ready for one of the biggest nights of his season.

But beyond the collective objective of qualification, there is also a personal storyline building around him.

What’s the story?

If he finds the net against Newcastle, Yamal will draw level with, or even surpass, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe’s record for most Champions League goals scored before turning 19. 

Yamal’s goal at St. James’ Park took his tally to nine in the competition. That puts him just one behind Mbappe’s mark of 10 goals before the age of 19.

Lamine Yamal is chasing Mbappe’s record. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The timeline works in his favour too, as Yamal will not turn 19 until July, meaning he still has multiple opportunities to surpass that total if Barcelona progress further in the tournament. 

Historically, the list he is chasing is elite. Mbappe leads with 10 goals, followed closely by Yamal on nine. Further down, legends like Raul and Bojan Krkic trail behind.

Already a record holder

As of today, Yamal currently holds the record for the most Champions League goals scored by a player under 18, having scored five goals in 23 matches.

On the other hand, Yamal has already surpassed his goal tally from the previous campaign, registering over 20 goals with months still left to play. 

To put it in perspective, last season, the Barcelona number 10 finished the season with 18 goals, and this season, there are still a considerable number of matches left to play.