Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu made an unforgettable Champions League debut, playing a pivotal role in AS Monaco’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona on Thursday night at Stade Louis II. This marks Monaco’s triumphant return to Europe’s elite competition after a five-year absence.
Monaco took advantage of an early red card for Barcelona, setting the tone for a tense but thrilling encounter. The 25-year-old Salisu, who recently recovered from injury, delivered a standout performance, showcasing his defensive prowess against Barcelona’s formidable attack.
Despite the pressure, Salisu excelled on the pitch, winning the most duels (7) and completing a game-high eight long passes. He further led in defensive metrics, recording four clearances and two key interceptions, making him the standout defender of the match.
Salisu’s performance was crucial in keeping Barcelona at bay, as Monaco held on to their 2-1 lead and secured a vital opening win in the 2024/25 Champions League group stage.
With this impressive debut, Salisu has not only solidified his place in Monaco’s defense but also proven that he can thrive on Europe’s biggest stage.