Outside of Greece and Belgium, many football fans might not have heard of Konstantinos Karetsas before today. After his stunning goal against Scotland tonight, he’s a name you won’t soon forget—and one to watch in the years ahead.
Konstantinos Karetsas, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder born on November 19, 2007, in Genk, Belgium, to Greek parents, etched his name into history on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Playing for Greece in a UEFA Nations League clash, he scored in a 2-0 win over Scotland, becoming the country’s youngest-ever goalscorer. The record, previously held by Sotiris Ninis, didn’t stand a chance against this rising star, who won’t even turn 18 until November.
Karetsas, who plies his trade with KRC Genk in the Belgian Pro League, has been a sensation this season. Known for his technical flair, dribbling, and ambidexterity, the 171 cm (5’7”) talent wears the number 20 jersey and has already made waves at club level. He became the youngest goalscorer in Belgian professional football history at 15 and scored his first Belgian Pro League goal against Anderlecht in December 2024. His talent earned him a spot on The Guardian’s list of the 60 best young talents in world football for 2024.
The midfielder’s international journey is just as compelling. Having represented Belgium from Under-15 to Under-21 levels, Karetsas switched allegiances to Greece in March 2025, a move approved by FIFA earlier this month. Three days ago, he debuted for Greece off the bench in a 1-0 first-leg loss. Tonight, handed his first start, he delivered a crucial goal just before halftime, doubling Greece’s lead and sending the crowd into raptures.
Greece's youngest-ever goalscorer
— UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) March 23, 2025
Konstantinos Karetsas. Remember the name#NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/XslNgzFnLz
Under coach Ivan Jovanovic, Greece is now on the brink of promotion to Nations League A, and their teenage prodigy is playing a starring role. From his roots in Genk’s youth system to his rapid rise on the international stage, Karetsas is proving he’s more than just a prospect—he’s a game-changer.
What a night for Greek football!