Two USMNT players make history with Barcelona in Champions League
Sergiño Dest scored his first goal with Barcelona, while Konrad de la Fuente made his debut in the team’s 4-0 victory against Dynamo Kyiv.
Barcelona have clinched the the top spot in group G after defeating Dynamo Kiev 4-0 on matchday 4 of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night, where two United States internationals made history in the Blaugrana shirt.
With several players unavailable through injury, coach Ronald Koeman put his confidence in USMNT players Sergiño Dest and Konrad de la Fuente for the important European fixture.
Dest scores debut for Barcelona
The second half started scoreless, but in the 53nd minute Dest recieved the ball from teammate Martin Braithwaite inside the box and didn’t miss his opportunity to find the back of the net -- making him the first-ever American to score for Barcelona.
Barcelona have so far played four matches in the Champions League and Dest has started in three of those games. The only game he didn’t play in was against Juventus on matchday 2, as Koeman decided to leave him on the bench.
“Good evening Barça fans. I am really happy to score my first UEFA Champions League goal and in such an important game like this. Hopefully many more to come, good evening,” Dest said after the game.
Konrad makes debut for Barcelona
Konrad de la Fuente was promoted to the first team this year and had played his first minutes during a pre-season match. But the Miami-born player made his competitive debut with Barcelona when he came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute in place of Trincao. The striker became the second American in history to play for Barcelona, with Dest, of course, being the first.
“I am very happy with my debut and for the win. I would keep working hard and bringing my best to the team. Lets go Barça!,” said de la Fuente after the game.