Mohammed Salisu shone on his Champions League debut as Monaco secured a 2-1 victory over 10-man Barcelona on Thursday night.
The Ghana defender delivered an outstanding performance at the Stade Louis II, contributing with four clearances, two interceptions, two tackles, and a commanding presence in aerial duels, winning five.
He also came close to scoring, capping off a remarkable debut in the elite competition.
Speaking to Flashscore ahead of the game, Salisu expressed his anticipation, saying, "Yeah, I think this will be my debut in the Champions League, and it's an important game for the team and for me as well, so we need to focus on the game."
His focused display was rewarded with a memorable victory for Monaco.
Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena scored the decisive goal, marking his Champions League debut with a well-taken strike in the 71st minute.
Monaco took advantage of an early red card for Barcelona’s Eric Garcia, and despite a brief equalizer from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Ilenikhena's goal sealed the upset win.