Julián Álvarez breaks Messi’s Champions League record

Julián Álvarez is enjoying an excellent run with Atlético de Madrid, the side he represented in Wednesday’s first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, a match in which he carried the Colchoneros.

The Argentine World Cup winner converted the penalty that earned Atlético a draw, a goal that keeps their hopes alive ahead of next week’s second leg in London. It also marked a historic milestone for the former Manchester City forward.

Álvarez’s strike against the Gunners was his 25th Champions League goal, a tally that places him among the most distinguished South American players in the competition.

Beyond the goal, he delivered a complete performance. He was one of Atlético’s standout players, finishing with six shots, six duels won, two successful one-on-ones, and two efforts on target, in addition to the equaliser.

With this milestone, Álvarez surpassed a record previously held by Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami forward had been the South American player to reach 25 Champions League goals in the fewest matches, doing so in 42 appearances for Barcelona.

Álvarez has now bettered that mark, reaching 25 goals in just 41 games.

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