Sports News of Friday, 7 March 2025

Source: www.mynigeria.com

UCL: Barcelona youngster Cubarsi follows Babayaro's unwanted record

Barcelona youngster Pau Cubarsi became the second youngest player to be sent off in the UEFA Champions League after receiving a straight red card against Benfica on Wednesday, March 5.

The Spanish defender was dismissed in the 22nd minute for stopping a clear goal-scoring opportunity by fouling Vangelis Pavlidis.

The 18-year-old is now only behind former Super Eagles international Celestine Babayaro, who remains the youngest ever player to be sent off in the prestigious competition.

Babayaro was sent off in a Champions League clash for Anderlecht against AC Milan in 1994 at the age of 16 years and 86 days.

The Nigerian international was shown a red card for a foul on Milan's Roberto Donadoni in the first half.

Despite Cubarsi's sending off, the Catalan giants went on to secure a crucial 1-0 victory away at Benfica.

WDN