Norberto Briasco-Balekian


Norberto Alejandro Briasco Balekian, better known as Norberto Briasco, is an Argentine-born Armenian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Argentine Primera División club Huracán.

Early life

Briasco was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Armenian parents. He also holds Armenian citizenship, however, through his mother, whose last name is Balekian. His grandfather lives in Argentina and has been helping him learn Armenian. Despite growing up speaking only Spanish, his mother would often speak Armenian to her parents, which is why he's once stated that "he knows some words, at least by ear". He's also claimed to be very proud of his Armenian heritage, which is why he "didn't hesitate when invited to the National Team". He still remains close to the Armenian community of south Buenos Aires city - sometimes attending community events.

Club career

Huracán

On 27 August 2016, Briasco made his debut in a 1–0 away defeat against Godoy Cruz after coming on as a substitute at the 75rd minute in place of Mauro Bogado.. On 11 March 2017, he would score his first official goal for Huracán senior squad, that would give his team the final 1-0 win away at San Martín de San Juan.
On 3 March 2017, he made his international club debut in a 3-0 away defeat against Deportivo Anzoategui, away in Venezuela. However, at the return game, in Buenos Aires, Norberto scored his first international goal in a 4-0 win that would see Huracán through to the next round of 2017 Copa Sudamericana.

International career

On 7 March 2018, Briasco received a call-up from the Armenia national football team for the friendly matches against Estonia and Lithuania. He made his international debut in a 0-0 friendly tie with Estonia on 24 March 2018.