17-Year-Old’s Stunning Goal Seals Comeback Victory for the Gunners
Arsenal’s rising star Ethan Nwaneri announced himself on the European stage in spectacular fashion, scoring a stunning winner on his full UEFA Champions League debut as the Gunners secured a 2-1 victory over Girona.
The 17-year-old midfielder, starting for the first time in the competition, showcased remarkable composure and skill, weaving past defenders before curling a brilliant strike into the far corner. The goal capped off a comeback win after a defensive lapse allowed Arnaut Danjuma to put Girona ahead, with Jorginho later equalizing from the penalty spot.
Former Manchester United and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves was full of praise for Nwaneri’s technique and ball control but stopped short of making a lofty comparison. “The ball sticks to his foot, it’s never away from him,” Hargreaves said on TNT Sports. “I don’t want to say who it reminds me of because it would put a bit of pressure on him. But he’s a special player.”
Arsenal legend Martin Keown echoed the sentiment, applauding Nwaneri’s confidence and execution under pressure. “I love it when a young player delivers on the night,” Keown said. “We built him up before the game, saying what a great talent he is, and he lived up to it. There’s a bit of anger in that shot, but also control. He makes it look easy.”
Arteta: “He Never Looks Nervous”
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was delighted with the teenager’s display, emphasizing his composure despite the high stakes. “He never looks nervous. He’s so composed, so calm, so confident about his ability,” Arteta said. “To start in the Champions League at 17 and score a crucial goal—that’s not very common.”
The victory secured Arsenal a third-place finish in the Champions League league phase with six wins, one draw, and one defeat. They will now face one of Juventus, Milan, Feyenoord, or PSV Eindhoven in the last 16.
Hargreaves and Keown were optimistic about Arsenal’s chances of progressing deep into the tournament. “Win, win, win, win. They are better than all four of them,” Hargreaves said, while Keown added: “Respectfully, those teams have history in this competition, but I’m confident Arsenal can go far.”
With their young talents stepping up and momentum building, Arsenal fans will be hoping this is just the beginning of a deep European run.
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