Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah recently delivered an emotionally charged interview following a remarkable performance where he scored a hat-trick against Sheffield United. This outstanding display was even more poignant as he dedicated his goals to his late aunt, who passed away the previous month.
Eddie Nketiah, an academy graduate for Arsenal, found himself back in the starting lineup for a crucial match against Sheffield United. This opportunity arose due to fellow striker Gabriel Jesus being sidelined with an injury. Nketiah seized the moment and made a significant impact. He opened the scoring against the relegation-threatened Sheffield United and went on to net two more goals, contributing to Arsenal’s resounding 5-0 victory. Fabio Vieira and Takehiro Tomiyasu also found the target in this match.
Nketiah’s hat-trick not only secured a crucial win for his team but also marked a milestone in the Premier League this season. He became the fifth player to score a hat-trick, joining the likes of Erling Haaland, Son Heung-min, Evan Ferguson, and Ollie Watkins. Additionally, this victory allowed Arsenal to narrow the gap to league leaders Tottenham, who had won their game against Crystal Palace the previous night.
In a post-match interview, Nketiah expressed his emotions, saying, “It’s amazing. It’s not been easy – last month I lost my auntie, so I want to dedicate these three goals to her. Her family were here watching, so it is a really special moment.” This heartfelt dedication added a deeply personal layer to his exceptional performance.
Nketiah went on to discuss the goals themselves, highlighting the quality of each. He emphasized the importance of patience and discipline in such games. His first goal was a result of a well-executed pass from Declan Rice and a skillful finish. The second goal was temporarily marred by a VAR check, but it ultimately stood. The third goal, a fantastic strike, brought him particular joy and satisfaction.
Despite the opportunity to score a fourth goal from the penalty spot, Nketiah chose to pass the ball to Fabio Vieira, allowing the Portuguese player to end his long goal drought. Nketiah explained his decision, saying, “It’s all about being a team player. It was his time to get a chance, and he tucked it away.” This selfless act showcased Nketiah’s commitment to the team’s success and his sportsmanship.
This hat-trick marked Nketiah’s first goals since a 2-2 draw with Fulham back in August, bringing his season tally to five goals. It also contributed to Arsenal’s unbeaten start to the season, even though they had three points less than at the same stage in the previous season.
Arsenal’s next challenge was an upcoming match in the Carabao Cup against West Ham, followed by a visit to St. James’ Park to face Newcastle, a team that had demonstrated strong home form by winning their last three league games without conceding a goal. Arsenal fans had much to look forward to as Nketiah’s dedication and skill had breathed new life into their campaign.
