More than 65 years have flown by since that historic day on 3 September 1959, when FC Barcelona made their inaugural appearance in the European Cup at the iconic Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia, Bulgaria. On that memorable occasion, Joan Segarra netted the club’s debut goal in this prestigious competition, marking a significant milestone in the team’s European history. Fast forward to the present, and with Robert Lewandowski‘s recent strike against Red Star, the total tally has now reached an impressive 702 goals, which includes five goals scored during the thrilling match held in Belgrade.
Stoichkov, goal 100
While Segarra’s goal took place on Bulgarian soil, the landmark 100th goal for the club was courtesy of another Bulgarian superstar. On 3 November 1993, Hristo Stoichkov was the man of the moment, as he broke the deadlock in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 at Austria Vienna, contributing to a crucial 2-1 victory with two goals that evening.
200 to 400
Almost seven years later, the milestone for the 200th goal came on 13 September 2000. In a resounding 4-0 victory against Leeds at the Camp Nou, Patrick Kluivert etched his name in the club’s history by scoring the landmark goal. The prestigious 300th goal was then struck by Samuel Eto’o during the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Chelsea on 22 February 2006, while David Villa scored the 400th goal on 29 September 2010 in a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Rubin Kazan.
Messi and Wembley
Leo Messi undeniably had to be highlighted in this remarkable sequence. He accomplished the feat of scoring Barça’s 500th goal in Champions League history on 30 September 2014, although the match ended in heartbreak with a 3-2 defeat against the club he would eventually join, PSG.
The 600th goal was a spectacular moment at Wembley, where Ivan Rakitić showcased his exceptional skills with a stunning volley against Tottenham on 3 October 2018, leading Barça to a triumphant 4-2 victory.
**Interview with Joan Segarra: A Legacy in European Football**
**Interviewer:** Joan, it’s been over 65 years since that memorable night on September 3, 1959, when you scored FC Barcelona’s first-ever goal in the European Cup. Can you take us back to that moment and what it felt like to make history?
**Joan Segarra:** Absolutely! That night at the Vasil Levski Stadium is something I will never forget. We were nervous, being in a big competition like the European Cup for the first time. When I scored, it was a surreal moment—not just for me, but for the entire team and the club. It felt like we were starting a new chapter, and knowing I was part of that history is incredibly special.
**Interviewer:** FC Barcelona has since become one of the most storied clubs in European football. Looking back, how do you feel the competition has changed over the years?
**Joan Segarra:** The European Cup, now known as the UEFA Champions League, has evolved tremendously. The level of competition is much higher now, with clubs from all over Europe investing heavily in their squads. It’s become a platform for the best players to showcase their talent. However, the passion and spirit of the competition remain the same, just as it was back in 1959.
**Interviewer:** With so many milestones in your career, do you have a favorite memory that stands out beyond that historic goal?
**Joan Segarra:** Every moment has its own significance, but playing in the World Cup in 1962 was an experience unlike any other. It combined the pride of representing my country and the thrill of competing at the highest level in international football. Those are moments that shape a player’s life.
**Interviewer:** As someone who has seen the evolution of football, what advice would you give to young players today?
**Joan Segarra:** I would tell them to always stay true to their passion for the game. Work hard, listen to your coaches, and learn from every experience. Football is more than just about skill; it’s about teamwork, perseverance, and love for the game. Those values have been essential in my career and are timeless.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Joan. Your contribution to football and FC Barcelona’s history is truly inspiring.
**Joan Segarra:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to reflect on those experiences and see how far the game has come. Let’s continue to celebrate football!