Forwards
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There were world-class and experienced strikers such as Karim Benzema, Robert Lewandowski and Luis Suarez in the quarter-finals but none of them made the cut. Instead, it is two youngsters who make the cut following their exploits over two legs.
Juventus’ Paulo Dybala destroyed Barcelona’s defence in the first leg with two well-taken goals with a composure that belies his 23-year-old self. Though the Catalan club’s defence is nothing to write home about, his awareness of where the goal was in tight spaces and his accuracy with his shots to beat the goalkeeper proved Dybala is the real deal and one to look out for in the future.
The Argentine forward is reportedly a primary target for most of Europe’s elite but he quashed all rumours by signing a contract extension to stay with the Old Lady until 2022.
Partnering him is one player who could soon make a move, though. Kylian Mbappe is only 18 years old and he is already one of the top scoring French players in Champions League knockout history.
Two goals in the first leg followed by a third in the second leg (scored as early as the third minute) saw his wide range of skills on display – be it his blistering pace or his lethal accuracy and composure. His performances have truly made Monaco the dark horses for the Champions League title this season.
