Historic Victory for Lamine Jamal in European Cup Qualifier

Moroccan-born Barcelona star Lamine Jamal made history for Spain when he scored in a seven-legged 7-1 victory over his Georgian counterpart on Friday in a 2024 European Cup qualifier.

Jamal’s Achievement Overshadows Alvaro Morata’s Brilliance

Jamal’s achievement eclipsed the brilliance of Atlético Madrid striker Alvaro Morata, who scored three goals (22, 40, and 66) after becoming the youngest player in history to defend Spain’s colors at 16 years and 57 days. He also became the youngest goalscorer in the team’s history, ending the scoring feast in the 74th minute after a pass from Neko Williams. Williams came on as a substitute for the injured Marco Asensio, who scored the sixth goal (68).

Jamal’s Impact as a Substitute

Jamal replaced Dani Olmo, who was injured 6 minutes after scoring the third goal (38) after Georgian defender Solomon Kverkvilia accidentally scored against his team (27).

Georgia’s Saving Goal

Georgia scored a saving goal thanks to Watford’s substitute Giorgi Chakvetadze (49).

Spain’s Standings in Group A

Spain went up to 6 points in three matches, 6 points behind Scotland, the leaders of Group A with a total score of 12 points in 4 matches.

Georgia’s Performance in the Qualifiers

On the other hand, Georgia suffered their second defeat after their first 0-2 loss to Scotland. They marked their 2-0 victory over Cyprus after drawing 1-1 with Norway.

Jamal’s Post-Match Interview

“I am very pleased with my debut and my goal,” Jamal told the Spanish channel TDB after the match. He continued, “It’s a dream, I’m living the dream now. I am very happy and have to thank my teammates and coach for the trust he has placed in me and thank everyone who has helped me along the way.”

Jamal’s Records

Jamal broke the previous record for the youngest player to wear a Spain jersey held by fellow Barcelona player Gavi. He started against Georgia in 2021 at 17 years and 62 days old. Jamal also held the record for the youngest scorer when he scored a goal against the Czech Republic in the European Premier League in June 2022 at the age of 17 years and 304 days.

Jamal’s Youngest Player Record for Barcelona

Jamal became the youngest player ever to play for Barcelona, taking part in the Spanish league last April when he came on as a substitute at the age of 15 years and nine months for the Spanish champions against Real Betis.

Jamal’s National Team Decision

Jamal has sparked a lot of competition between the two kingdoms of Morocco, where his father’s roots come from, and Spain, where he was born in Barcelona. However, the player, who also holds Equatorial Guinean citizenship through his mother, decided to join the Spain national team.

Source: Agencies