Kai Havertz opens Arsenal account, fans applaud Martin Odegaard’s selflessness

Despite an impressive 4-0 victory for Arsenal over Bournemouth, the game's most memorable moment occurred when summer signing Kai Kavertz scored his first goal following a touching gesture from his captain.

Chirag

September 30, 2023

Arsenal fans heaped praise on Martin Odegaard for his generous gesture in facilitating Kai Havertz’s debut goal for the club.

The Gunners displayed their dominance by securing a 4-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

The match saw Bukayo Saka netting the opener from close range just 17 minutes in, followed by captain Martin Odegaard converting a penalty on the stroke of halftime after Eddie Nketiah was fouled in the box.

In the second half, Arsenal was awarded another penalty when Odegaard was clumsily fouled in the area. However, Odegaard and the usual penalty taker, Saka, decided to pass the responsibility to Havertz, who had not scored since his much-debated £65 million transfer in the summer.

The raucous away fans cheered as Havertz stepped up to take the penalty. After a somewhat nervy run-up, the German confidently slotted the ball into the bottom corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.

A sense of relief washed over Havertz’s face as his jubilant teammates celebrated with him, pushing him toward the Arsenal section while he offered a triumphant fist pump.

Fans expressed their delight not only for Havertz’s goal but also for the camaraderie displayed by Odegaard and Saka.

On Twitter, supporters praised their selflessness, with comments like, “That was a selfless act by Odegaard and Saka to let Kai Havertz take the spot kick,” and “Great leadership from Odegaard to give Havertz the penalty.”

Others were effusive in their praise, saying, “Class from Odegaard & Saka and the entire @Arsenal team to make sure Kai gets his first goal,” and “Team Spirit at its best.”

The travelling Arsenal fans enthusiastically chanted a new song in honor of Havertz for the rest of the game, using the melody of Shakira’s “Waka Waka.” The song was heard again as Havertz received a standing ovation when he was substituted for Emile Smith Rowe in the 81st minute.