Michael Noonan Sets New European Football Record

Irish teenager Michael Noonan has etched his name in European football history. At just 16 years and 197 days old, Noonan became the youngest player ever to score in any European competition when he found the net for Shamrock Rovers.

Noonan’s goal came in a crucial UEFA Conference League playoff match against Molde FK in Norway. The young striker, wearing number 31, scored the decisive goal in the 57th minute, securing a 1-0 away victory for the Irish side.

This remarkable achievement surpasses the previous record held by Belgian star Romelu Lukaku, who scored in European competition at 16 years and 218 days old. Noonan’s goal makes him the youngest scorer not only in the Conference League but across all UEFA club competitions.

Here’s how Noonan’s record compares to the youngest scorers in other European competitions:

• UEFA Champions League: Ansu Fati (17 years, 40 days)
• UEFA Europa League: Romelu Lukaku (16 years, 218 days)
• UEFA Conference League: Michael Noonan (16 years, 197 days)

Noonan’s precocious talent has not only helped his team gain an advantage in their European tie but has also placed him in the spotlight of European football. It will be fascinating to see how this young Irish prospect develops in the coming years.