Raul Albiol surpasses Xavi and sets a new record

Villarreal lost the semi-final first leg in the Champions League at Liverpool FC, but for defender Raul Albiol there was at least an individual reason for celebration. The central defender set a new record.

There was nothing for the yellow submarine on Anfield Road on Wednesday. After goals from Jordan Henderson and Sadio Mane, Liverpool won the game 2-0.

Villarreal hardly ever posed a goal threat, but at least they conceded only two goals. A small spark of hope for the big sensation and entry into the final of the Champions League remains. Also because in Gerard Moreno and Yeremy two important offensive forces are expected back in the second leg.

In the second duel with the Reds, Raul Albiol should hold the defense together again. The world and European champion then goes into the game with a freshly set record. As of Wednesday, aged 36 years and 235 days, he became the oldest Spanish player to appear in a premier league semi-final.

So far, Xavi Hernandez has held the record. He was 35 years and 107 days old in the semi-final against Bayern Munich on the way to the 2015 Champions League title. Xavi ended his active career in 2019. He has been the head coach of FC Barcelona since November 2021