Published: 21 July, 2009, 12:56
Edited: 21 July, 2009, 12:56
Mauricio Baldivieso has become the youngest player ever to debut in professional football after the 12-year-old appeared on the pitch during a Bolivian championship match on Sunday.
Aurora coach Julio Cesar Baldivieso introduced his son into the game against La Paz in the 39th minute. The youngster tasted what professional football is like in an instant, as he took a knock to the ankles within five minutes after a violent tackle from one of the rivals.
The doctors had to treat the boy and he was back in action after a while, with the crowd applauding his return.
Mauricio played till the final whistle but, unfortunately, his team lost 1-0.
“I am proud of my son, he has a huge talent,” his father said.
Mauricio Baldivieso, who’ll turn 13 next week, has beaten the previous records for youngest player to play professional game set by Peruvian Fernando García, who debuted in 2001 at 13 years and 11 months for Juan Aurich.