Brenden Aaronson ties Messi’s Champions League record
The USA midfielder played the entire 90 minutes in RB Salzburg’s 1-1 draw against FC Bayern Munich in the first leg of the last 16.
RB Salzburg were so close to putting Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich on the ropes in the first leg of the Champions League last 16. The home side took the lead at the Red Bull Arena the 21st minute thanks to a great assist from Brenden Aaronson and an even better finish from Chukwubuike Adamu.
It seemed that the Austrian side were going to pull off a surprise victory but a late goal from Kingsley Coman was enough for FC Bayern Munich to level the score ahead of the second leg, which will be played on 8 March at Allianz Arena.
Aaronson’s record in the UCL
Brenden Aaronson became the youngest player to create five chances in a UEFA Champions League knockout match since 20-year-old Lionel Messi achieved the feat with FC Barcelona against Celtic in 2008. The United States men’s national team midfielder has become a key player for Salzburg since arriving a year-and-a-half ago.
The 21-year-old has played in all seven Champions League games for Salzburg this season and was substituted just once during the group stage. Aaronson has played 625 minutes, out of 630 possible, and has provided one assist.