Madrid
Julian Alvarez etched his name into UEFA Champions League history after becoming the fastest Argentine player to score 25 goals in the competition, surpassing legendary forward Lionel Messi.
The Atletico Madrid striker achieved the milestone during his side’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal F.C. in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal in Madrid.
Alvarez calmly converted a second-half penalty to keep Atletico Madrid’s hopes of winning a fourth Champions League title alive. With the goal, the Argentine forward reached 25 goals in just 41 Champions League appearances, overtaking Messi, who needed 42 matches to achieve the same landmark. Former Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero sits third among Argentines, having reached the milestone in 48 games.
Despite the impressive achievement, Alvarez still trails the competition’s all-time leading scorers. Cristiano Ronaldo tops the Champions League scoring charts with 141 goals, followed by Messi with 129 and Robert Lewandowski with 109.
The semifinal clash at Madrid’s home ground produced an intense and closely fought contest. Arsenal took the lead shortly before halftime when Viktor Gyökeres converted a penalty in the 44th minute after being fouled inside the box.
The Gunners had earlier threatened through Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke and Piero Hincapie, while Alvarez tested goalkeeper David Raya with a brilliant individual effort in the opening stages.
Atletico Madrid responded strongly after the break under manager Diego Simeone. Alvarez equalised from the penalty spot following a handball by Ben White, reigniting the home side’s hopes.
The Spanish club continued pressing for a winner, with Antoine Griezmann striking the crossbar and Ademola Lookman forcing several saves from Raya.
The decisive second leg will now be played in London on May 6, with the winner advancing to the final against either Bayern Munich or defending champions Paris Saint-Germain F.C.