Sporting paid an affectionate tribute to Viktor Gyokeres after the striker returned to Lisbon with Arsenal for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. The Swedish forward started for Arsenal as the Gunners earned a 1-0 win through Kai Havertz’s stoppage-time goal, taking a narrow advantage back to London.
Gyokeres had enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Sporting before joining Arsenal, scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances and helping the Portuguese side win major honours before his £65 million move. Although his departure had been tense, Sporting supporters applauded him off on Tuesday night, showing appreciation for what he achieved at the club.
Rui Borges says Gyokeres ‘deserves to be applauded’
After the match, Sporting head coach Rui Borges revealed he spoke briefly with Gyokeres and said he was happy to see him and his family doing well. Borges said the striker had helped him enormously, made history at Sporting and in Portuguese football, and would always be welcome back. He added that Gyokeres deserved the applause he received from the fans.
Those comments stood out because Gyokeres’ exit from Sporting had not been smooth. Even so, the mood around his return was largely respectful, with the club and crowd choosing gratitude over resentment.
Rafael Nel calls him an idol
Sporting forward Rafael Nel also spoke warmly about Gyokeres, saying the Arsenal striker shared a few words with him after the game and that the feeling was mutual. Nel described Gyokeres as an idol, while also making clear that Sporting will head to the second leg with confidence and no fear.
Arsenal take the edge in the tie
The emotional subplot did not distract from the result. Arsenal left Portugal with a 1-0 lead after Havertz struck late, giving Mikel Arteta’s side the upper hand before the return leg at the Emirates.
For Gyokeres, it was not a spectacular individual night, but it was still a memorable one. He returned to the club where he became a star, heard applause from the same supporters he once thrilled, and left with Arsenal holding the advantage in the tie.
