Raheem Sterling has carved his name into the history books with an incredible Champions League record, surpassing a Chelsea legend in the process.
While Arsenal secured their spot in the quarter-finals with ease, Sterling’s milestone stole the spotlight, Footballrover reports.
But what exactly did he achieve, and where does he now rank among England’s all-time UCL greats?
Raheem Sterling’s historic Champions League record
Sterling became the first English player to register a direct goal contribution for four different clubs in the UEFA Champions League, setting a new benchmark in Europe’s elite competition.
His assist against PSV Eindhoven helped Arsenal take control of the match on Wednesday night at the Emirates.
In the all-time UCL goal involvement chart for English players, Sterling now boasts 46 combined goals and assists, overtaking Frank Lampard (44).
The only names ahead of him are Wayne Rooney (47), Harry Kane (50), and David Beckham (52), leaving him within touching distance of the top three.
Arsenal advance despite PSV’s fightback
Arsenal’s quarter-final place was never in doubt after their dominant first-leg performance, but they still aimed to impress in the return fixture.
Oleksandr Zinchenko got them off to a perfect start by smashing home from Sterling’s assist.
PSV responded through Ivan Perišić’s brilliant strike, but Arsenal regained control as Declan Rice headed in Sterling’s pinpoint cross.
Despite a late equaliser from Couhaib Driouech, the Gunners comfortably progressed with a 9-3 aggregate win.
Sterling nearly added a goal of his own, but PSV goalkeeper Walter Benítez denied him twice.
Though Arsenal missed out on a sixth straight UCL victory, they now prepare for a high-stakes clash against Real Madrid after they defeated Atlético Madrid on penalties.
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