Champions League: Youssoupha Mbodji scores twice but Slavia Prague collapse late

Senegalese defender Youssoupha Mbodji had a very eventful UEFA Champions League debut on Wednesday as Czech giants Slavia Prague surrendered a two-goal lead to draw Norway’s Bodø/Glimt.

Mbodji, who only made his debut for Slavia four days ago with a brief cameo, was given the start and incredibly scored a brace but his team failed to finish the job at home in their league phase opener. The 21-year-old arrived at the far post to finish for the opening goal in the 23rd minute.

A promising but mixed Champions League debut

It was not all great for the Senegalese talent, who did commit a foul in the penalty area early in the second half but was saved when goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek denied the ensuing spot kick. When Mbodji scored his second goal in a similar manner to his first in the 74th minute by finishing another cross from the right wing with his head, it appeared that Slavia had secured three points.

But the Norwegian visitors fought back and answered less than five minutes after Mbodji’s second goal. A 90th minute equalizer resulted in the two teams each taking a point from the fixture, a massive disappointment for Slavia.

Who is Youssoupha Mbodji?

Mbodji, who has not played for any Senegalese youth national teams, arrived from obscure second tier Czech club Jihlava less than a month ago after impressing in limited minutes. Wednesday gave the young defender, capable of playing on the left or in center, a unique opportunity and he will be a player to watch in the Champions League’s league phase against the continent’s elite clubs.

Slavia continue their Champions League journey on September 30 when they travel to face Italian giants Inter Milan.