Iwobi Reflect on His Iconic Goal Against Chelsea in Europa League Final

Alex Iwobi has described his stunning goal in the 2019 UEFA Europa League final against Chelsea as one of the greatest moments of his career.

The Nigerian midfielder, who was an Arsenal player at the time, admitted his disappointment at not being included in the starting lineup but was determined to make an impact when given the opportunity.

“We played in Baku, it was a long journey. I thought I was going to start, but Unai Emery decided to go with a different team. I was disappointed, but I told myself that if I got the chance, I had to prove why I should have started,” Iwobi said in an interview with Fulham Fix Podcast.

The final, held at the Baku Olympic Stadium on May 29, 2019, saw Arsenal struggle in the second half after a goalless first 45 minutes. Chelsea broke the deadlock through Olivier Giroud in the 49th minute, followed by goals from Pedro and a penalty from Eden Hazard, putting them 3-0 ahead.

Iwobi was introduced in the 66th minute and made an immediate impact just three minutes later, smashing a powerful volley into the net from the edge of the box. The goal offered a brief glimmer of hope for Arsenal, but Chelsea sealed their victory when Hazard netted his second goal in the 72nd minute, ensuring a 4-1 triumph for the Blues.

Unfortunately, we lost to Chelsea, but scoring in such a big final is one of my best career moments,” Iwobi stated.

His goal made history, as he became the first Nigerian to score in a major European club final. It also marked his final goal for Arsenal before his transfer to Everton later that summer in a £35 million deal.

Since leaving Arsenal, Iwobi has continued to build his career in the Premier League, playing four seasons at Everton before moving to Fulham in 2023, where he has become a key figure in the squad.

Editorial

Alex Iwobi’s reflections on the 2019 Europa League final offer an insight into the highs and lows of professional football. While the night ended in disappointment for Arsenal, his stunning goal remains a defining moment in his career. It was a display of his technical ability, resilience, and determination to make an impact despite being left out of the starting XI.

Every footballer faces setbacks, and not making the starting lineup for a final can be disheartening. But Iwobi’s reaction coming off the bench and scoring a brilliant goal demonstrates the mentality required at the highest level. He seized his moment, etched his name into history as the first Nigerian to score in a European final, and left a lasting memory for fans.

His departure from Arsenal that summer marked the start of a new chapter, and his move to Everton was seen as an opportunity to develop further. While his time at Goodison Park had its ups and downs, his recent performances at Fulham suggest he has found a club where he can thrive.

At 27, Iwobi remains an important player for both club and country. His ability to adapt to different roles in midfield and attack has made him a valuable asset, and he continues to be a key part of the Super Eagles squad. The challenge for him now is to build on his experience and become an even greater influence for both Fulham and Nigeria.

While Arsenal fans may look back on that final with regret, Iwobi’s goal was one of the few bright spots. It was a moment of brilliance in a difficult game, proving that even in defeat, there are moments worth celebrating.

Did You Know?

1. The 2019 Europa League final was the first major European final to be played in Azerbaijan.
2. Iwobi’s goal made him the first and, so far, only Nigerian to score in a European club final.
3. Olivier Giroud, who scored the opening goal for Chelsea, had previously played for Arsenal and won the FA Cup with the Gunners.
4. Arsenal’s defeat in the final meant they missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification for the 2019/20 season.
5. Iwobi’s transfer from Arsenal to Everton in 2019 made him one of the most expensive Nigerian players in history at the time.