In an entertaining UEFA Champions League clash on Wednesday night, Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri made headlines with a stunning performance.
The 17-year-old midfielder scored his first Champions League goal to secure a 2-1 victory over Girona, propelling the Gunners through to the round of 16, footballrover reports.
Nwaneri’s clinical strike marked a historic milestone in his burgeoning career, helping Arsenal maintain their unbeaten run across all competitions.
Ethan Nwaneri shines with his first Champions League goal
Nwaneri, starting in his first Champions League match, delivered when it mattered most.
After the Gunners were levelled 1-1 with Girona, Nwaneri’s composed finish in the 35th minute gave them the lead.
Cutting inside from the left, he slotted the ball into the bottom corner, showing off his poise under pressure once again.
With this goal, Ethan Nwaneri now has six goals for Arsenal this season, averaging a remarkable goal every 99 minutes.
Only Cesc Fabregas and Bukayo Saka have been involved in more goals at 17 for the club. His early success shows the promise that has fans excited for his future.
Arsenal sees off Girona, advances to UCL knockouts
Despite both teams having little to play for, the match was filled with drama. Girona shocked Arsenal early, taking the lead through Arnaut Danjuma.
However, Arsenal responded strongly, with Jorginho converting a penalty to equalise. Nwaneri’s first Champions League goal followed soon after, putting the Gunners ahead.
The second half saw Arsenal push for more, but a disallowed equaliser and a missed penalty from Raheem Sterling prevented any Girona comeback.
Mikel Arteta’s side held firm, extending their unbeaten away run in all competitions to nine games and sealing their spot in the Champions League knockout stages.
Ethan Nwaneri was awarded Player of the Match following Arsenal’s 2-1 comeback victory over Girona in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, matchday 8.
At just 17 years and 314 days old, Nwaneri became the second youngest English player to score in the competition, surpassing Jude Bellingham, who was 17 years and 289 days old when he netted against Manchester City in April 2021.
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