World Cup 2022: Gavi Equals Pele’s Record in Spain's tie Against Morocco

• Barcelona midfielder Gavi started for Spain against Morocco in the round of 16 clash at the World Cup
• The 28-year-old is now the youngest player to start a knockout game at the men's World Cup
• Doing this, Gavi has now equalled the record Brazilian football legend Pele set at the 1958 World Cup

Spain international Gavi on Tuesday afternoon, 6 December, became the youngest player to start a knockout game at the men’s World Cup since Pele in 1958.

The Barcelona youngster achieved this success while featuring for Spain against Morocco in the round of 16 clash at the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The 18-year-old was superb for Spain in the first half of the encounter roving around the midfield even though he was unable to score any goal.

During his active playing time, Pele was one of the greatest footballers on earth winning the World Cup titles with Brazil.

Belgium's World Cup 2022 squad: Who was left out of the Belgium World Cup squad?

Football

First half result

Spain and Morocco played out a goalless draw in the first half as the two sides proved themselves in what was a challenging battle.

Gavi has been playing for the Spanish national team since 2021 and has so far featured in 16 games netting three goals.

Gavi faces early retirement

Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Barcelona and Spain star Gavi could be faced with the tough predicament - choosing between his highly promising career or love.

A member of Spain's Royal Family, Princess Leonor is said to have a huge crush on Gavi. The princess recently received a signed shirt from the midfielder.

Her father, King Felipe VI was in Doha, Qatar to watch Spain's opening game against Costa Rica. After the game, he told Gavi that his daughter 'loved him' and in turn, Gavi responded by sending her a signed shirt.

South Korea's World Cup squad 2022: Who's in and who's out?

Football

It is said that Princess Leonor is smitten by the 18-year-old. Football Espana reports that her school folder is filled with pictures of the Barcelona star.

Princess Leonor is formally known as the Princess of Asturias and is the heiress to the throne, given that she is the firstborn of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.