UEFA Euro Qualifiers: Zlatan Ibrahimovic scales new heights but fails to rescue Sweden

UEFA Euro Qualifiers: Romelu Lukaku emerged as star of night as Sweden hosted Belgium on Matchday 1 of ongoing UEFA Euro Qualifiers. While Lukaku starred with a stunning hat trick, Swedish football great Zlatan Ibrahimovic me helines for scripting a massive record despite ending up on losing side. Lukaku’s goals helped Belgium earn ir first points in UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying round, which was ir first international match since ir disappointing exit from FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Meanwhile, at of 41 years old, Ibrahimovic came off bench as a 73rd-minute substitute and became second oldest player ever to take part in a European qualifier. While it initially seemed like AC Milan superstar was oldest man to do so, it later emerged that Gibraltar striker Lee Casciaro claimed record during match against Greece on Friday. While Swedish star was born on  October 3, 1981, Casciaro was born four days prior on September 29, 1981.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic on a record-breaking streak

At of 41 years, 5 months, and 21 days, Swedish star is still ahe of former Italian goalkeeper Di Zolff, who previously held record. Zolff played against Sweden on May 29, 1983, at of 41. This comes almost a week after Zlatan scripted a major record while representing his club in Serie A.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic achieves major milestone in Serie A

He scored against Udinese in Italian top-tier league and became oldest player to score a goal in Serie A history. In meantime, earlier this week Ibrahimovic revealed his plans about his future in international football. He reportedly insisted that he wants to play at EURO 2024 finals, which will be played in Germany next year.

UEFA Euro 2024: Sweden to face Azrbaijan in next game after Belgium loss

If Sweden vance into UEFA Euro finals, Zlatan will play tournament as a 43-year-old and become oldest player ever to participate in it. However, team has w started ir Qualifiers campaign on a disappointing te by losing to Belgium. Sweden face Azerbaijan in ir next match on Saturday, March 28.