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Xavi Espart comes of age against Paris Saint-Germain
Xavi Espart comes of age against Paris Saint-Germain

The generation of 2007 continue to shine, the latest example being Xavi Espart's standout performance despite the defeat in Parc des Princes against Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain. In defence he kept a player of the talent Khvicha Kvaratskhelia quiet for the majority of the time the Georgian was on the field, and going forward he scored the first goal of his career in European competition for the first team. 

From the Youth League to the Champions League

Almost a year to the day, Xavi Espart scored to make it 2-1 in a game for the Barça U19s against Paris Saint-Germain U19s in the UEFA Youth League. A year later he repeated the feat, but this time in the UEFA Champions League. Even though the goals in the Parc des Princes could not help the blaugranes to victory, it will be a moment that the 19 year old will never forget. 

Goal to round things off

In the most demanding fixture in European Football, away to the winners of the last two editions of the Champions League, Xavi Espart showed he belonged on such a stage with his performance against PSG. In the 55th he rounded off his day with a perfectly taken goal, making an excellent forward run from right back to collect Fermín López's pass before surging into the box to beat keeper Safonov with low shot just inside the near post to make it 1-1. 

The goal was merely the tip of the iceberg in a display that also showcased Xavi Espart's defensive skills: eight recoveries, two defensive clearances as well as his goal. Stats to back up an all round attacking and defensive performance. 

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