Nigerian-born George Ilenikhena’s emphatic strike was the decisive moment as his team secured a 2-1 victory over a 10-man Barcelona in a dramatic encounter. The match took a sudden turn when Barcelona’s Eric Garcia was sent off in the 10th minute, leaving the visitors with a numerical disadvantage. Just six minutes later, Monaco took full advantage, netting the opener with a composed finish that put them in the lead.

Despite being a man down, Barcelona showed their resilience and equalized in the 28th minute with a well-worked goal that momentarily silenced the home crowd. The game hung in the balance as both teams battled for dominance.

In the 71st minute, Ilenikhena delivered the match-winning moment. Receiving a perfectly timed pass, he sprinted past the remaining Barcelona defenders with blistering pace, driving into the box before unleashing an unstoppable shot that left the goalkeeper helpless. His goal sent the home crowd into raptures and sealed the victory for his side.

Barcelona, despite their efforts, couldn’t find another equalizer, and Ilenikhena’s brilliant display was enough to hand the home team all three points.