Ghana international Mohammed Salisu has expressed delight after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal, a crucial strike that helped AS Monaco secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw away to Dinamo Zagreb.
The Black Stars defender found the net as Monaco mounted a spirited comeback in Croatia, earning a valuable point that keeps their hopes alive in the competition. Salisu’s assured performance at the back and his decisive contribution in attack also earned him a spot in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Week.
Reacting after the match, Salisu took to Instagram to acknowledge the collective effort of his teammates. “Great effort from the lads yesterday. Let’s keep pushing. First Champions League goal,” he wrote.
Dinamo Zagreb took control of the contest just before halftime when Peter Sucic opened the scoring, finishing off a well-worked move initiated by Martin Baturina. The Croatian side doubled their lead in the 66th minute, placing Monaco under significant pressure and seemingly on course for victory.
However, Monaco responded with renewed urgency. Salisu pulled one back for the visitors with a powerful and well-timed header from a precise cross delivered by Maghnes Akliouche, marking his maiden goal in Europe’s elite club competition. The goal sparked Monaco’s resurgence, and their persistence paid off late in the game when Denis Zakaria calmly converted a penalty in the final minute to restore parity.
The draw marked Salisu’s second appearance in the Champions League, having made his debut earlier in the campaign during Monaco’s victory over Barcelona. Since the start of the 2024/25 season, the Ghanaian defender has been one of Monaco’s standout performers, playing a key role in both domestic and European fixtures.
Salisu’s impressive club form has not gone unnoticed, with the defender expected to be named in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification doubleheader against Sudan.
As he continues to shine at club level, Black Stars fans will be hopeful that Salisu can replicate his performances on the international stage.
