Viktor Gyökeres expressed his confidence in his abilities after contributing with a goal and an assist in Arsenal’s 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
The 27-year-old scored early in the second half at Stamford Bridge, taking advantage of a mistake by Robert Sanchez to put Arsenal ahead 2-0, reacting quickly to a loose ball in the penalty area. After the match, Gyökeres stated, “That’s what I’m going to do, and I can do it more often,” in an interview with Sky Sports.
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This goal marked his first in domestic cup competition and his eighth overall since joining from Sporting Club last summer, which includes five in the league and two in the Champions League.
Gyökeres later assisted Martin Zubimendi, helping to increase the lead to 3-1 by creating space inside the box.
Alejandro Garnacho scored twice for Chelsea, narrowing the deficit and setting the stage for a more intense return leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 3.
“It was a tough match,” Gyökeres reflected as he accepted the Player of the Match award. “We defended well, but they were dangerous on counterattacks. Unfortunately, we conceded two goals, but we got three in front, so I’m pleased with that,”
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
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Mikel Arteta praised his striker, stating, “The expectation is always to score, and we expect much more than that,” describing Gyökeres’ performance as “really good.” He added, “Viktor has been exceptional in many aspects.”
Arteta emphasized the importance of Gyökeres to the team: “Sometimes I understand that people don’t fully appreciate what he brings, but we definitely do, and it’s great that he was rewarded with a goal.”
Declan Rice commented, “Without him making that run from Gabi [Martinelli’s] flick and laying it off to Martin, that goal wouldn’t have happened for us to turn the game around.”
“I see him every day. I witness his finishing and how hard he strikes the ball. When the space opens up and the ball reaches him, he will score without a doubt,” Rice noted.
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“Defenders in the Premier League aim to stop Viktor Gyökeres because he’s one of the best strikers globally. Naturally, when you’re facing top players, it’s tough for him as he’s often marked by two defenders, requiring him to use his strength and skills to support the team. Trust me, he’s doing an incredible job for us. We wouldn’t be where we are without him.”