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 –
Nicolas Pépé came on last night & changed the game. Two fantastic goals & he didn’t so much as celebrate, despite securing the win in injury time. He’s already acknowledged that he needs to do more, and the mute reaction is a sign that he still has more to offer. I can’t wait.
Nicolas Pepe. Yes. He was happy to save the team, but what I love the most about this dude is the way he did a calm celebration as if it was nothing.. Coming from a guy that hasn't hit the ground running that's huge tbh
Banging in a 93rd min free kick winner, I really thought #Pepe would’ve ran off and give us the trademark celebration. Maybe that muted celebration was a big ‘FUCK YOU’ to everyone doubting him. For me never in doubt. The weights been lifted from his shoulders now #arsenal#pepe
I like how Pepe didn't go crazy in celebrations or anything. Just looked glad to score. He know he needs to do more but this was a good start. Hope all this builds up to that iconic celebration soon. pic.twitter.com/LUShdYvD58
What I liked from Pepe tonight was how humble his celebrations were after scoring 2 world class free kicks. You can see how hard he’s been trying to make an impact & even though he made a huge one tonight, he knows the hard work isn’t over & there’s so much more for him to do.
