Arsenal’s teenage sensation, Ethan Nwaneri, has made history in the Champions League by becoming the third-youngest scorer in a knockout stage match. The 17-year-old academy graduate found the back of the net in Arsenal’s commanding 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the last-16 tie.
Nwaneri scored his breakthrough goal with a first-time finish from Myles Lewis-Skelly’s cross, marking Arsenal’s second goal of the night. With several key players sidelined by injuries, the young forward stepped up in a crucial moment, adding to his impressive season under manager Mikel Arteta.
At just 17 years and 348 days old, Nwaneri now ranks behind only Bojan Krkic (17 years, 217 days) and Jude Bellingham (17 years, 289 days) among the youngest players to score in a Champions League knockout match. He also surpasses Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala, who scored at 17 years and 363 days.
Moreover, his debut makes him only the third English player to start in a Champions League knockout fixture before turning 18, joining the ranks of Bellingham and Phil Foden. In a historic moment, Nwaneri’s goal, set up by fellow Hale End graduate Lewis-Skelly, marked the first time two English teenagers combined for a goal in the Champions League.
Arsenal’s dominant performance has virtually secured their place in the quarter-finals, with the Gunners expected to face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid next. Captain Martin Odegaard was effusive in his praise for the club’s rising stars, highlighting the bright future ahead for Arsenal.
