Boyhood Arsenal fan Eberechi Eze lived his ultimate fantasy, scoring a magnificent hat-trick against arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur to fire the Gunners six points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The £67.5 million summer signing, who famously snubbed Spurs to join the club he supported as a child, became an instant hero with his match-winning performance in one of football's most fiercely contested fixtures.
A Prayer Answered on the Derby Stage
An emotional Eze revealed after the match that his spectacular three-goal haul was the direct result of his fervent prayers. "It's special. I am grateful. I prayed for it," Eze confessed. "This is what I pray for. I prayed for a hat-trick so I am grateful to God."
He added that having his family in attendance made the occasion even more memorable, stating the experience was beyond words. The 27-year-old's stellar display etched his name into the history books, as he became the first player to score a hat-trick in the North London derby since Alan Sunderland achieved the feat back in 1978.
Arteta's Joy and Title Race Caution
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who Eze personally called in the summer to plead for a move to the Emirates, was beaming with pride for his new star. "Things happen for a reason," Arteta mused. "When a player has such a talent, and his desire is at that level, then these things happen. And he fully deserves it."
The manager praised the unique aura and confidence Eze has brought to the squad, highlighting his game-winning ability. However, despite opening up a significant six-point gap over their title rivals, Arteta refused to get carried away, emphasising the relentless nature of the Premier League and immediately shifting focus to the upcoming Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.
Spirits Dampened in the Tottenham Camp
On the opposing side, Tottenham boss Thomas Frank was left to apologise to the club's supporters for a performance he labelled "hugely disappointing."
Frank acknowledged the team's failure to perform in such a critical match against their biggest rivals was unacceptable. While pointing to the context of a rebuild after a 17th-place finish last season, he admitted there was "a lot to work on" following a display that did not reflect the progress they are trying to make.
The result leaves Arsenal in a commanding position in the title race, a scenario made all the sweeter for the club's faithful by the fact it was delivered by one of their own.
