Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze described his first career hat-trick as a “special” moment after inspiring the Gunners to a commanding 4–1 victory over north London rivals Tottenham on Sunday.
Eze delivered a masterful performance at the Emirates Stadium, scoring three expertly taken goals after Leandro Trossard opened the scoring for Mikel Arteta’s side.
The 27-year-old had endured a quiet start to life at Arsenal following his £60 million move from Crystal Palace in August. But against Tottenham, a club that had attempted to sign him before his move to the Gunners, Eze produced a dazzling display that strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the Premier League.
“That’s a good one, man,” he said after the match. “An enjoyable day. I’m happy to help the team, and to win today was special. Words can’t explain this one.”
Eze’s journey back to Arsenal is remarkable. Rejected by the club as a teenager, he climbed his way through English football, and now stands among the Premier League’s top performers. Devout in his Christian faith, Eze credited his stunning showing to prayer.
“I prayed for it. I prayed for a hat-trick, so I’m grateful to God,” he said. “God gave it to me, and that’s faith. Having my whole family here makes it even more special.”
Before Sunday’s match, Eze had scored only twice in 15 appearances for his new club. His explosive display not only punished Spurs but also boosted Arsenal’s pursuit of their first league title since 2004, following three consecutive second-place finishes.
His hat-trick was the first in a north London derby since 1978 and only the fourth in the rivalry’s history.
When asked which of the three goals he cherished most, Eze chose his second, scored just 35 seconds into the second half with a clinical strike.
“They’re all good, but maybe the second one,” he said. “That was my favourite. I’ve been working on getting into those positions, so it feels good.”
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