Arsenal maintained their position at the top of the Premier League yesterday.
They overcame another tough challenge, defeating last season’s Champions League finalists Liverpool 3-2 at the Emirates.
Man of the match Gabriel Martinelli spoke to Astro Supersport after the match.
Martinelli was exceptional yesterday, opening the scoring in the first minute.
He admitted after the match he was afraid the goal might be ruled out, but survived the VAR check.
Martinelli then set up Bukayo Saka for Arsenal’s second goal just before half-time.
He terrorised Liverpool’s right-hand side, and further scrutinised Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defending.
When the full-time whistle blew, Martinelli fell to his knees, and was asked about his reaction and how much it meant to him.
“It means a lot, I think we deserved the win and we run a lot in the game and I was so happy.” Martinelli said.
Martinelli fell to his knees at full-time
Martinelli’s reaction was likely a combination of relief and exhaustion.
The Brazilian is one of only three players to have started every Arsenal match in all competitions.
His lung-bursting runs caused Liverpool plenty of problems down the left wing, and caused confusion for their second goal.
After drawing Jordan Henderson into a one-v-one, Alexander-Arnold came across to cover
However, all it took was one drop of the shoulder to beat both defenders and set up Arsenal’s second goal.
Liverpool pegged Arsenal back twice in the match, and Martinelli may have fallen to his knees at full-time after helping his side finally protect a lead.
Arsenal are in a strong position in the Europa League and Martinelli may finally be awarded a break on Thursday.
Given the form he’s in, he’s unlikely to want to miss an opportunity to play.
Martinelli missed out on the final Brazil squad before the World Cup next month.
He’ll be hoping to put in more eye-catching performances to force his way into Tite’s squad.