Arsenal’s teenage sensation, Ethan Nwaneri, made history on Wednesday night by becoming the third-youngest player to score in a Champions League knockout stage match. The 17-year-old academy graduate shone in Arsenal’s dominant 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in their last-16 encounter, rifling home a first-time finish from Myles Lewis-Skelly’s cross to net the Gunners’ second goal of the night.
Nwaneri’s goal marked his eighth strike of what has been a breakthrough season under manager Mikel Arteta. With key players sidelined due to injuries, the young forward has stepped up in Arsenal’s attack, delivering crucial performances when it matters most.
At 17 years and 348 days, Nwaneri now ranks behind only Bojan Krkic (17 years, 217 days) and Jude Bellingham (17 years, 289 days) as 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.
Nwaneri’s inclusion in Arsenal’s starting lineup made him only the third English player to start a Champions League knockout fixture before turning 18, joining an elite group featuring 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 had combined for a goal in Champions League history.
Arsenal’s commanding performance has all but secured their place in the quarter-finals, where they are likely to face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid. Captain Martin Ødegaard was full of praise for the club’s rising stars, highlighting their impact on the team’s success.
