Igor Thiago scored twice as Brentford continued their unexpected European charge with a 3-0 victory over Sunderland on Tuesday. The Brazilian striker's double took his Premier League tally to 16 goals, setting a new record for a Brazilian in a single season in the competition.
Thiago, 24, surpassed the previous bests set by Roberto Firmino, Gabriel Martinelli and Matheus Cunha. His first half strike came after Vitaly Janelt dispossessed Nordi Mukiele and played a perfect through-ball, allowing Thiago to round goalkeeper Robin Roefs and slot home.
Sunderland had a golden chance to equalise in the 57th minute when Kristoffer Ajer fouled Brian Brobbey in the box, but Enzo Le Fee's Panenka penalty was easily caught by Caoimhin Kelleher. Moments later, Thiago grabbed his second — and record-breaking goal — after Mathias Jensen's cross was headed across goal by Kevin Schade.
Yehor Yarmoliuk added a third with 17 minutes left, lashing home to seal a fourth win in five matches for Brentford. The Bees, tipped for relegation at the season's start, now sit fifth in the table, keeping their European dream alive.
