Just 30 seconds into Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final, Marcus Thuram made his mark, scoring the fastest-ever goal in a semi-final tie to give Inter the lead over Barcelona.
The French forward flicked Denzel Dumfries’ low cross past a helpless Wojciech Szczesny, leaving Barcelona’s defense in shock. Thuram’s goal, which came within the opening minute, set a new record for the fastest goal ever scored in a Champions League semi-final.
Heading into the first leg, Thuram’s fitness had been in doubt. Inter had struggled in his absence, suffering three consecutive goalless defeats that severely hampered their treble hopes, including a loss to AC Milan in the Coppa Italia and setbacks in Serie A to Napoli. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his injury, Thuram made an immediate impact, proving why Inter had been desperate to rush him back.
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While his goal was a lightning start to the game, it fell short of the Champions League’s overall fastest goal record. That distinction remains with Roy Makaay, who scored for Bayern Munich after just 10.12 seconds against Real Madrid in 2007.
Despite the quick opener, the game evolved into a thrilling 3-3 draw, with Thuram’s early strike the first of six goals in a breathless encounter in Barcelona.