April 19, 2021...History Made as York United Striker Scores in the Champions League (from York United FC website)

HISTORY MADE AS YORK UNITED STRIKER SCORES IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

It was an incredible moment for Lisandro Cabrera as he netted Atletico Pantoja's first ever CCL goal.
It was one of those incisive, sweeping moves from Atletico Pantoja on Thursday night.

A terrific pass, a quick lay-off, a superb through-ball from Alexis Ossa and then it was
Lisandro Cabrera versus Monterrey goalkeeper Luis Cardenas.

Inside the sprawling Estadio BBVA, the Argentine striker - on loan from York United FC - made it look
easy and nonchalantly slipped the ball through Cardenas' legs. As Cabrera wheeled away in celebration,
the keeper afforded himself a wry smile at just how audacious the finish was.

On the night, the goal provided plenty of momentum for the Dominican Republic outfit and they
battled gamely in the CONCACAF Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash with the Mexican
powerhouses (winners of the competition in 2019). But, it ultimately proved a comfortable aggregate
victory for Javier Aguirre's side.

Still, Cabrera's strike was history-making on three counts.

Firstly, it was Atletico's very first goal in the competition.

Secondly, it was the very first goal by a Dominican Republic club in the competition.

Thirdly, Cabrera is now the very first Canadian Premier League player to find the net
in the CONCACAF Champions League.

The 22-year-old - signed by York United last November - only joined Atletico last month
but immediately impressed club executives.

"We are extremely pleased with the arrival and adaptation of Lisandro Cabrera to the Dominican
Republic," said Atletico's Sporting Director, Ramsés Santana, ahead of the first-leg battle
with Monterrey.

"We have the joy of having a squad that welcomes all the foreign players who show their worth
and experience every day. Lisandro certainly does that."

Cabrera himself was delighted with Thursday's experience, especially considering the calibre
of the opposition and - due to the on-going COVID-19 situation - his lack of competitive
action in recent months.

"The truth is I was very happy, especially after so much time not playing and facing such
a top team like Monterrey." he told York United FC.

"I hope to have more moments like these and continue to enjoy them."

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