Royal Antwerp pulled off a stunning upset with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Barcelona at home on Wednesday, marking their first-ever win in the Champions League. Despite the win, Antwerp’s triumph in Group H wasn’t enough to keep them in the competition, but it did prevent them from finishing the group stage without any points.
The match began with a quick start from Antwerp, as teenager Arthur Vermeeren put the home team ahead just 90 seconds into the game. Barcelona, fielding a side with several regular starters rested, found an equalizer through Ferran Torres 10 minutes before the halftime break.
Vincent Janssen restored Antwerp’s lead early in the second half, setting the stage for a tense finish. As the match headed into stoppage time, Barcelona’s 17-year-old Marc Guiu scored what seemed like a decisive equalizer, dampening the spirits of the Antwerp fans.
However, in a remarkable twist, Antwerp immediately responded from the kick-off. George Ilenikhena, another teenage substitute, surged downfield and scored the winning goal, igniting wild celebrations at the Royal Antwerp stadium.
Despite their historic win, Antwerp concluded their Champions League debut at the bottom of the group standings. Meanwhile, Barcelona, already assured of advancing to the knockout stages, confirmed their position as group winners, thanks to Porto’s 5-3 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the other Group H fixture.
The match showcased the unpredictability and excitement of European football, with Royal Antwerp’s young talents rising to the occasion against one of the continent’s most storied clubs. For Barcelona, the result was a reminder of the challenges that can arise even against ostensibly weaker opponents, particularly in the Champions League’s demanding environment.
