Young Stars Estêvão and Lamine Yamal Clash in Chelsea vs. Barcelona

SÃO PAULO, Brazil (AP) — The highly anticipated match between Chelsea and Barcelona in the Champions League features two rising stars, Estêvão and Lamine Yamal. The match is set to kick off today at 5 p.m. (Brasília time) in London.

Estêvão, 18, has scored two goals for Chelsea in the tournament, while Yamal, 18, has the same total but also contributed with one assist, bringing his tally to three total goal involvements for Barcelona. Yamal has slightly played more minutes in the competition, with 255 minutes compared to Estêvão’s 225.

Both players have had different paths leading to this moment. Estêvão joined Chelsea this season after making a name with Palmeiras, while Yamal is in his third season with Barcelona and has become a key figure under coach Hansi Flick, wearing the team’s iconic number 10 jersey.

Yamal’s statistics for the current season boast six goals and seven assists across 12 matches. In contrast, Estêvão has played 16 games for Chelsea, scoring four goals and providing one assist, but he fights for a regular starting position under coach Enzo Maresca.

Maresca commented on the pressure surrounding Estêvão as comparisons to Yamal grow in the media. “It’s a pleasure for football lovers to see Estêvão, just like Lamine Yamal. He needs to focus on improving himself daily rather than comparing with others,” he stated.

Despite the hype, Estêvão almost joined Barcelona previously, as the club showed interest before choosing Yamal instead. The match today marks a significant moment for both young talents, showcasing their potential on a major European stage.