Christian Kofane makes history for Bayer Leverkusen and Cameroon in the Champions League

He became the second youngest player from Cameroon and the German club to start a match in the knockout stages.

Christian Kofane is in the starting line-up for Bayer Leverkusen, who face Arsenal on Wednesday 11 March in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16. The Cameroonian, who is already making a name for himself with his German club, has just made history for both the club and his country.

By starting this match against the Gunners, Kofane has made his mark in the history books. At 19 years and 228 days, the Cameroonian has become the second youngest player to start a Champions League knockout match for Bayer Leverkusen. He is ranked behind Kai Havertz, who made his debut against Atlético Madrid in 2017 when he was only 17 years and 255 days old.

For his country, Cameroon, Christian Kofane also became the second youngest player to start a knockout match. Former Cameroonian international Joël Matip holds the record at 19 years and 191 days.