At just 21, Jude Bellingham has added another milestone to his burgeoning football legacy, equaling Lionel Messis record for Champions League goal assist by players 21 years of age and younger. The Real Madrid midfielder achieved the remarkable result under his team’s pressure 5-1 win over Salzburgshowcasing his brilliance with two assists that further cemented his reputation as one of football’s brightest talents.
In a performance that underlined his decisive role for Real MadridBellingham had two assists, both more Rodrygoin the first 40 minutes of the match at the Santiago Bernabeu. While the first was a well-timed through ball, it was the second assist that stole the show – a stunning backheel that cut through Salzburg’s defence, allowing Rodrygo to slot the ball into the far corner in the 34th minute.
This display brought the Bellinghams Champions League goal assist to 24 (11 goals and 13 assists)which matches Lionel Messi’s total (17 goals and 7 assists) achieved in his first year at Barcelona. “Jude Bellingham has now been involved in as many Champions League goals as Lionel Messi before turning 22,” noted Eight.
Only Haaland and Mbappe have more
While Bellingham’s performance is extraordinary, he still lags behind Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe on the all-time list of under-22 Champions League contributors. The Frenchman leads the rankings with an astonishing 37 goals, highlighting his rapid rise at Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain.
Meanwhile, City’s most prized asset follows with 26 contributions, having dominated Europe’s elite competition during his time with Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund. Bellingham’s current total of 24 puts him in third place, tied with Messi, but with six months to go until his 22nd birthday, the England star has plenty of time to surpass Haaland and potentially close in on Mbappe.
Important victory for Real Madrid
Bellingham’s contribution has been crucial in Real Madrid’s quest for qualification to Champions League knockout stages. The win over Salzburg lifted Madrid to 16th in the table, leaving them just one point off the top eight. With a must-win game against Brest looming, the team is well positioned to advance, aided by Bellingham’s consistent brilliance.
Madrid’s improved form has coincided with Bellingham’s rise, as the England international has become the heart of the team’s midfield. Since joining from Borussia Dortmund last summer, he has adapted seamlessly to life in Spain, delivering key performances in both domestic and European competitions.
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