Brian Madjo, Aston Villa's 17-year-old striker, scored on his competitive debut against Paris Saint-Germain in the Uefa Super Cup, becoming the youngest player to score in the annual match. The 6ft 4in forward, born in London and capped for Luxembourg, had been cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport earlier this month to play for Villa after a dispute over his transfer from Metz.
Debut Performance
Madjo came on as a substitute and scored within 45 minutes, despite missing three earlier chances. His goal came from a tight angle on the left, a volley that he roofed into the net. He also physically dominated PSG defender Willian Pacho, the Ecuador international and two-time European champion.
The teenager had already impressed in pre-season friendlies, scoring four goals against Walsall, Real Sociedad, and Indonesia All Stars. His clearance from CAS was necessary because Villa and Fifa disagreed on whether his January move from Metz for £10m was a domestic or international transfer, which affected his eligibility as a minor.
International Future
Madjo's international future remains uncertain. He was born in Enfield but raised in Luxembourg when his Cameroonian parents moved there. He has played only friendlies for Luxembourg, and England could still approach him. Cameroon, his parents' home country, may also be interested.
Madjo is among a wave of young talents in English football, including Arsenal's Max Dowman (16), Manchester United's JJ Gabriel (15), Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha (17), and Manchester City's Ryan McAidoo (18). His Super Cup teammate George Hemmings (19) also featured.
Quote of the Day
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