Arsenal youngster Karl Hein started in goal for Estonia against Wales last night and the 19-year-old was the star of the show.
It’s very rare to see a goalkeeper pick up the man of the match award, especially in a game that features Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale. However, Hein stepped up when required to help his country pick up only their third point of the World Cup qualifiers.
Hein, still only 19, made six saves – three of which denied Bale. He looked really assured in goal and his performance is arguably the biggest reason why Estonia, who only had 34 per cent possession, didn’t end up on the losing side. (SofaScore)
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MOTM vs Wales, Karl Hein has a bright future
Hein is a hugely talented goalkeeper, everyone at Arsenal knows that. The teenager, who joined us from Nomme United in 2018, has impressed everyone through his performances for our youth sides.
Mikel Arteta even handed him some game time in pre-season, which just shows that he is very much a part of Arsenal’s plans for the future. However, his road to the first team is a very difficult one at the moment.
Hein has Bernd Leno, Aaron Ramsdale and Arthur Okonkwo all ahead of him in the pecking order. It will take a long time before he can have a say in the senior side, but performances like last night’s against top opposition will certainly aid his chances.
Arsenal fans, predictably, were blown away by Hein’s performance yesterday. Here’s how a few Gooners reacted on Twitter…
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