Nicolas Pepe finally arrived for Arsenal after scoring two goals from two free kicks in a crucial 12 minutes for the Gunners in their 3-2 win over Vitoria SC in the Europa League.
The Ivorian answered his critics with two stunning goals and his conscious nonchalance while celebrating them definitely commented on his confidence; he is here to stay and he is all set to score more.
For the first 80 minutes Arsenal’s night was one of frustration, toil and helplessness.
Marcus Edwards’ 8th minute strike was levelled by Gabriel Martinelli’s 32nd minute goal.
But Arsenal’s comfort was short-lived as the Portuguese club went forward again with Bruno Duarte’s 36th minute strong rebound shot.
The scenario changed only on the 75th minute when a seemingly tired and burnt out Lacazette made way for the club’s £72m record signing.
Gunners looked towards him for a bailout and the Ivory Coast international delivered immediately.
His 25 yard long free kick took the opposition goalkeeper by surprise and found the net on the far bottom corner.
His second goal was even more dramatic as it came on the second minute of injury time.
This time the free kick was more conventional yet more breathtaking. The strike was unstoppable and flawless and gave Unai Emery’s team a memorable win.
What surprised and warmed Arsenal fans more was the calm and confident demeanor of their last hero.
Pepe did not celebrate any of his wonderful goals and only stood calmly while gathered by his ecstatic teammates.
Check out the reactions from Arsenal fans below –
