Nigerian teenage sensation scores winning goal as Antwerp shock sloppy Barcelona

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 01:11 - 14 December 2023

Royal Antwerp salvaged some pride on their way out of the UEFA Champions League by overcoming a much-changed Barcelona side 3-2.

17-year-old forward George Ilenikhena scored the winner as underdogs Royal Antwerp defeated Barcelona 3-2.

WHAT A GAME! 🤯

LEAVING THE UCL IN STYLE... 😎🔴⚪

🔴 3-2 🔵 (FT)#UCL #AntwerpBarça pic.twitter.com/OusSZVzR6v
— Royal Antwerp FC (@official_rafc) December 13, 2023

Full Time #AntwerpBarça pic.twitter.com/uxmL1OBsUG
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 13, 2023

How it happened

The home team capitalized on an early mistake, as Arthur Vermeeren capitalized on a miscontrol by Oriol Romeu to score.

Despite Barcelona leveling with a goal from Ferran Torres, Antwerp regained the lead through Vincent Janssen after a turnover.

Sergi Roberto's red card was downgraded to yellow after VAR review.

Barcelona equalized in stoppage time, but Antwerp launched a counterattack, and George Ilenikhena sealed the win, marking a fifth straight victory for Antwerp at Bosuilstadion.