UYL: Former Liverpool attacker Gift on target in Athletic Club's win over Arsenal

Former Liverpool forward Elijah Gift played a decisive role as Athletic Club opened their UEFA Youth League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Arsenal U19s in Bilbao.

The 19-year-old, who left Anfield to join the Basque side, came off the bench to inject energy into the contest and capped his performance with a late goal. 

Athletic had made a strong start through Manex Lozano’s opener, only for Arsenal to level within 17 seconds of the second half when Brando Bailey-Joseph converted from Ceadach O’Neill’s delivery.

Gift’s introduction shifted the momentum back in favour of the hosts. The young forward immediately unsettled the Arsenal back line, forcing goalkeeper Jack Porter into action with a driven effort before winning a penalty in the closing stages. 

He showed composure to dispatch the spot kick, ensuring Athletic secured all three points.

Lozano’s second goal, created through relentless pressing high up the pitch, had earlier restored Athletic’s lead, but it was Gift’s contribution that underlined the Basque side’s authority in the final moments.

The victory marked Athletic’s return to the Youth League after more than ten years, with the performance of their teenage forward offering encouragement for the campaign ahead. 

Arsenal, meanwhile, will look to regroup before their second group fixture against Olympiacos U19s on October 1.

Gift, who has Spanish, Nigerian, and Cuban heritage, remains eligible to represent multiple nations at international level. 

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com