Mezian Mesloub sets Portugal Under-21 record at just 16

Mezian Mesloub has become the youngest player to start a match for Portugal Under-21s after making his debut at the age of 16 years, eight months and 22 days.

The Racing Club de Lens winger started Wednesday’s meeting with Gibraltar, helping Portugal to a 4-0 victory and securing his place in the history of the Portuguese youth national teams.

Mesloub’s record is the latest milestone in a remarkable start to the season for the teenager, whose performances for Lens have quickly attracted attention in France and Portugal.

Rapid rise with Lens

Mesloub has emerged as one of the early revelations of the Ligue 1 campaign despite Lens winning only one of their first five league matches.

The club have produced some notable results during that period. Lens defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the Trophee des champions before beating Slavia Prague 2-1 in the Champions League.

The European victory proved particularly significant for Mesloub. Introduced as a substitute, he immediately impressed with his confidence and technical ability. His display included an assist for Florian Thauvin, bringing the young winger firmly into the spotlight.

Since then, the 16-year-old has progressed through the Lens first team at striking speed.

Following another substitute appearance against Le Mans, Mesloub was handed his first start against AS Monaco before the international break. Lens were beaten 2-1, but the decision to select him from the beginning underlined the trust placed in the teenager.

His performances also caught the attention of Portugal’s football authorities. The Portuguese Football Federation moved quickly to include him in the Under-21 squad, giving him the opportunity to make history almost immediately.

Historic debut

Mesloub’s first start for Portugal Under-21s came against Gibraltar, where he became the youngest player ever to start for the team.

At 16 years, eight months and 22 days, he surpassed every previous player to have represented Portugal at Under-21 level in a starting line-up.

The Lens player was applauded by the Portuguese crowd when he was substituted. His lively movement, inventive play and willingness to take on opponents had made an impression during a landmark first appearance.

Mesloub, who is of Algerian origin, has now made an impact in Ligue 1, the Champions League and with Portugal Under-21s, all before turning 17.

Lens are due to face Lyon in their sixth match of the French championship.