Published 10:45 IST, September 7th 2020
Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati becomes youngest player to score for Spain at the age of 17
Barcelona teen sensation Ansu Fati becomes the youngest player to score for the Spanish national team after his strike vs Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League.
Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati broke through into the first team last season and has often paired alongside Lionel Messi at Camp Nou. Following a string of impressive performances whenever given an opportunity at Barcelona, the 17-year-old received the national team call up under Luis Enrique. Indeed, Ansu Fati did not disappoint the manager, after he netted a goal in the UEFA Nations League in his first start for Spain.
Ansu Fati becomes the youngest player to score for Spain
Luis Enrique entrusted Ansu Fati with the task on the left-wing in his first official start with the national team. The Barcelona youngster began the game on a high as he won a penalty within 100 seconds of the game. Spain and Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos duly converted from the spot to bag an early lead against Ukraine.
Ansu Fati went on to make history, courtesy of his curling strike in the 32nd minute to make it 3-0. Sergio Ramos had already scored the second goal of the night in the 29th minute. Ansu Fati's goal meant that he now holds the record of being the youngest-ever to score for Spain, achieving the milestone at an age of 17 years and 311 days.
Ansu Fati's impressive form with Barcelona
The Barcelona youngster came close to doubling his tally from a fine header. But his shot was well blocked by Ukraine goalkeeper Andriy Pyatov. Ansu Fati had made his international debut in Spain's 1-1 draw against Germany earlier last week. Having made his senior team debut with Barcelona last season, the striker has displayed promising signs as he aims to become the next fan-favourite at Camp Nou. He netted seven goals in 24 LaLiga appearances last term, while also bagging his maiden Champions League goal against Serie A giants Inter Milan in the group stage.
Sergio Ramos becomes highest-scoring international defender
Besides Ansu Fati, Spain captain Sergio Ramos also registered some impeccable records with the national team. With his opener against Ukraine, Ramos equalled former Argentina defender Daniel Passarella, with 22 international goals. The 2010 World Cup winner went on to overtake the Argentine legend with his second of the night. Interestingly, he is now tied with Spain and Real Madrid legend Alfredo di Stefano, who netted 23 goals during his time with Spain.
Image courtesy: Barcelona official Twitter handle
Updated 10:45 IST, September 7th 2020