David Luiz Makes Champions League History at 38

At the age of 38, David Luiz marked a significant milestone by scoring his first Champions League goal in over eight years during a match on Wednesday.

The Brazilian defender, currently playing for Pafos and recognized for his distinctive curly hair, displayed impressive athleticism as he elevated himself at a corner kick to deliver a powerful header into the top corner of the AS Monaco net. This goal equalized the match at 1-1 in the 18th minute.

At 38 years and 218 days old, Luiz now stands as the second-oldest scorer in Champions League history, surpassed only by Portuguese defender Pepê, who was 40 years and 290 days when he scored for FC Porto against Shakhtar Donetsk in December 2023.

Luiz last found the back of the net in this prestigious tournament in October 2017, while playing in his second stint with Chelsea, during a thrilling 3-3 draw against Roma at Stamford Bridge.

He played a vital role in Chelsea’s Champions League title-winning campaign in 2012 and later competed in the tournament with Paris Saint-Germain. Luiz made his Champions League debut with Benfica in 2007.

After spending four seasons in Brazil, David Luiz returned to Europe in August to join Cypriot champion Pafos, marking the club’s debut in this prominent competition.