Why Gabriel Magalhães Imitated Viktor Gyökeres’ Celebration in Arsenal’s 5-1 Champions League Win

In a thrilling 5-1 victory over Sporting CP in Lisbon, Gabriel Magalhães stole the spotlight on Tuesday night by mimicking Viktor Gyökeres’ iconic celebration after scoring a goal for Arsenal. This unforgettable moment took place during the Champions League clash, following Arsenal’s dominant performance on the field.

Arsenal took control early in the match, with Gabriel Martinelli opening the scoring in the seventh minute. Kai Havertz doubled the lead in the 22nd minute, and Gabriel Magalhães added a third with a powerful header just before halftime, courtesy of a perfect corner from Declan Rice.

Upon scoring, Gabriel made a gesture that caught the attention of fans: he locked his fingers and placed his hands in front of his eyes, mirroring the signature celebration of Viktor Gyökeres, the Sporting forward. This act intrigued many, with some speculating that it was a playful retaliation after Sporting’s dramatic elimination of Arsenal from the Europa League last season.

In March 2023, Sporting knocked out Arsenal at the Emirates in a tense round-of-16 tie, clinching victory on penalties after a stunning long-range goal from Pedro Gonçalves. Sporting players celebrated by mocking Granit Xhaka’s iconic gesture in front of the Arsenal fans, a moment that clearly left a lasting impression on the Gunners’ squad.

Gabriel’s tribute to the celebration echoed the rivalry and revenge Arsenal sought, with fans quickly sharing their admiration for the defender’s bold move.

Sporting’s Gonçalo Inácio did pull one back early in the second half, but Arsenal’s strength shone through as Bukayo Saka converted a penalty to make it 4-1, and substitute Leandro Trossard sealed the deal with a close-range finish.

After the match, manager Mikel Arteta expressed his satisfaction, praising his team’s performance against a Sporting side that had been unbeaten at home for over 18 months. “To play at this level, with determination, purpose, and fluidity, I’m very pleased,” Arteta said.

The win moved Arsenal up to seventh place in the Champions League standings, keeping their hopes high for automatic qualification to the knockout stages.

Arsenal’s memorable night in Lisbon ended with both victory and a powerful statement, as Gabriel’s celebration was a clear reminder that Arsenal doesn’t forget.