Luiz makes champions league history as Pafos rally to hold Monaco

Cypriot champions Pafos fought back twice to earn a 2-2 draw against Monaco, with veteran defender David Luiz becoming the second-oldest goalscorer in Champions League history, Sport360NG reports.

Monaco struck first when Takumi Minamino finished neatly from Maghnes Akliouche’s precise pass. Pafos responded quickly, with Anderson Silva rattling the crossbar from distance as they pushed for an equaliser.

Luiz, 38, delivered the breakthrough, powering in a superb header from Mislav Oršić’s corner, his first Champions League goal since 2017 during his spell at Chelsea.

Monaco regained the lead when Folarin Balogun capitalised on a misplaced pass from goalkeeper Neofytos Michael. But Pafos refused to fold. In the closing minutes, Ivan Šunjić’s strike crashed off the bar and ricocheted in off Monaco defender Mohammed Salisu, securing a deserved point for the hosts.

Both teams now sit on identical records, one win, three draws and one defeat from their opening five group matches.

Paul Pogba, who recently returned to action following a long layoff due to a doping ban and fitness issues, remained on the bench for Monaco.