Spain midfielder Gavi has become the youngest player to score at the World Cup since Brazil legend Pele in 1958. The Barcelona prodigy scored during Spain’s 7-0 thumping of Costa Rica in their opening Group E game.
At 18 years and 110 days old, this makes Gavi the third-youngest goalscorer in World Cup history. In addition, Gavi also became the youngest-ever player to represent Spain at an international tournament.
“I never dreamed to be here at this age,” Gavi stated following Spain’s victory. “I’m so happy to be here. This is only one step. I need to keep going.”
Pele continues to hold the all-time youngest goalscorer record, having scored at the 1958 World Cup final as Brazil defeated Sweden. He was just 17 years, 249 days old at the time.
Following Pele is Mexico’s Manuel Rosas, who scored at the age of 18 years and 93 days during the first-ever World Cup tournament in 1930.
In addition to making history, Gavi also received FIFA’s player of the match award in recognition of his contribution to Spain’s emphatic win.
