Nketiah reveals heartwarming reason why he let Fabio Vieira take the penalty

Arsenal defeated Sheffield United 5-0 on Saturday. But amidst all the goals and impressive performance, it was a heartwarming moment that caught the attention of Arsenal fans. Striker Eddie Nketiah, who scored a hat-trick in the game, revealed the special reason why he gave Fabio Vieira the chance to take a penalty kick in Arsenal’s win over Sheffield United.

Nketiah said, “I was on it, I was going to take it, but Fabio, it was a special moment for him. He’s expecting a baby and he won the penalty – he asked if he could take it, I said, ‘Of course!’, it’s a team sport, I’ve got three [goals]!”

Vieira, who came on as a substitute in the 74th minute, was fouled in the box in the dying minutes of the game. As the designated penalty taker, Nketiah had every right to take the spot-kick and potentially score his fourth goal of the game. However, he selflessly gave up the opportunity to Vieira, who calmly converted the penalty to score his first goal for Arsenal.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 28: Fabio Vieira of Arsenal scores the team’s fourth goal from the penalty-spot during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on October 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

It was a touching gesture from Nketiah, who showed great sportsmanship and team spirit by allowing his teammate to have a memorable moment. The 24-year-old striker also mentioned that it was a team sport and he already had three goals to his name, so it was only fair to give someone else a chance to score.

Nketiah’s hat-trick helped Arsenal secure an easy victory over Sheffield United and move up to second place in the Premier League table. The Gunners are now just two points behind their arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur. On the other hand, Sheffield United remain at the bottom of the table without a single win this season.

As Arsenal prepares for their next game in the Carabao Cup, Nketiah’s act of kindness and team spirit will surely boost the morale of the team. And for Vieira, his first goal for Arsenal will always be a special memory, thanks to Nketiah’s selfless gesture.