In a thrilling encounter at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Jakub Kiwior made headlines by scoring his first goal of the season for Arsenal in their match against Crystal Palace. The Polish defender, who has been in sensational form lately, opened the scoring just three minutes into the game with a powerful header from a free kick delivered by Martin Ødegaard.
This goal marks a significant milestone for Kiwior, as it is not only his first of the current Premier League season but also his third overall since joining the Gunners. The 25-year-old has stepped up remarkably in the absence of injured teammate Gabriel Magalhães, showcasing his defensive prowess and now contributing offensively as well.
Arsenal fans have been buzzing about Kiwior's performances, especially after the team's impressive run in the Champions League, where they eliminated the defending champions Real Madrid, conceding only one goal across two legs. His contributions have earned him the affectionate nicknames "Mr. Invincible" and "Mr. Reliable" among supporters, reflecting the trust they have in his abilities on the pitch.
After Kiwior's early goal, the match saw Crystal Palace respond vigorously. Eberechi Eze equalized for the visitors in the 27th minute, capitalizing on a well-placed pass from Adam Wharton. However, Arsenal quickly regained the lead through Leonardo Trossard, who scored a quarter of an hour later, putting the Gunners back in front.
Throughout the season, Kiwior has demonstrated his skill and resilience, playing a crucial role in Arsenal's defensive line. With 23 appearances across all competitions this season, he has also registered three assists, proving to be a valuable asset for manager Mikel Arteta.
As Arsenal looks to solidify their position in the league, they are likely to finish second, with Liverpool seemingly on course to claim the title. However, the Gunners have their sights set on European glory, as they prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals of the Champions League. Should they advance, they could potentially meet the winner of the matchup between FC Barcelona and Inter Milan in the final.
Kiwior's rise to prominence has been remarkable, especially considering he had to fill in for Magalhães due to injury. His recent performances have drawn praise from pundits and former players alike, including Arsenal legend Ian Wright, who remarked, "He stepped up and proved he is good enough to be here. He has faced challenges but has risen to the occasion every time we needed him."
As the match against Crystal Palace continued, fans were treated to a display of determination and skill from both teams. Arsenal's defense, bolstered by Kiwior's contributions, aims to maintain their strong record this season, which boasts 15 wins, 6 draws, and an impressive 10 clean sheets.
With the season nearing its conclusion, every match becomes crucial for Arsenal as they strive to end on a high note. The team's performance against Crystal Palace is a testament to their resilience and depth, showcasing the talent they possess even in the face of adversity.
As the clock ticked down, Arsenal held onto their lead, with Kiwior's early goal proving invaluable. The excitement around the club is palpable, with supporters eagerly anticipating the upcoming Champions League clash against PSG, which promises to be a thrilling contest.
In conclusion, Jakub Kiwior's first goal of the season not only highlights his individual talent but also reinforces Arsenal's ambitions as they navigate a challenging season. With the Premier League title slipping away, the focus now shifts to European competition, where Kiwior and his teammates will look to make their mark.