Promising Arsenal starlet Ethan Nwaneri found the net as the Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton in a Premier League clash on Saturday.
The 17-year-old scored his second league goal and fourth across all competitions this season, underlining his rapid development and growing maturity.
Starting his second consecutive league game, Nwaneri was one of Arsenal’s standout performers in the first half.
He justified his manager's faith by giving the visitors the lead in the 18th minute, expertly finishing from a Mikel Merino assist.
The teenager's composure and creativity were pivotal to Arsenal’s early dominance.
However, Brighton fought back in the second half. The home side earned a penalty, which João Pedro converted, leaving Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya with no chance as Brighton levelled the score.
Nwaneri, who is eligible to represent both England and Nigeria internationally, was substituted at half-time, with his side unable to find a winner in a tightly contested encounter.
Ethan Nwaneri’s performance against Brighton: Key stats
Ethan Nwaneri’s performance in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Brighton highlighted his potential as a rising star in the Premier League.
The 17-year-old, who played 46 minutes, made his mark early by scoring Arsenal’s only goal of the match.
Nwaneri was a constant presence in the first half, completing 22 touches—second only to his teammates during that period.
He also completed all eight of his attempted passes for a perfect 100% accuracy rate.
He registered one shot on target, which resulted in his goal, and came agonizingly close to doubling his tally when he hit the woodwork. Nwaneri also attempted three dribbles, successfully completing one.
In physical duels, he showcased determination, winning three of six ground duels, although he was unsuccessful in his lone aerial challenge.
