Viktor Gyökeres has finally opened his scoring account for the season, finding the net as Sweden secured a 2-1 victory over Romania in the Nations League.

The Arsenal striker had gone through a difficult start to the campaign, with limited playing time at club level and increasing questions surrounding his form. His goal for Sweden, however, offered a timely reminder of his ability in front of goal, reports alldaysport.net

Gyökeres reacted quickest to a rebound after Lucas Bergvall’s effort and calmly finished at the far post to put Sweden ahead. It was his first competitive goal since scoring against Tunisia in the World Cup opener and his first goal of the current season.

Speaking after the match, Gyökeres admitted that scoring again was important.

“It’s always nice to score a goal.”

The Swedish forward also explained how the opportunity developed, praising Bergvall for his initial effort before highlighting his positioning inside the box.

Gyökeres acknowledges Arsenal challenge
While the goal will provide a confidence boost, Gyökeres remains under pressure to establish himself at Arsenal.

He has struggled to secure a regular starting position and has yet to score in the Premier League this season. Kai Havertz has been preferred in the central attacking role, leaving Gyökeres with fewer opportunities to impress.

The striker, however, insisted that criticism is simply part of football.

“If you do well you get praise and if you don’t score goals as a striker and play as they expect, there is criticism.”

Gyökeres added that he tries not to allow outside criticism to affect him, focusing instead on performing whenever he receives an opportunity.

What does Mikel Arteta want from Gyökeres?
Asked what he needs to do to earn another starting opportunity under Mikel Arteta, Gyökeres gave a straightforward answer.

“I obviously need to do better.”

The striker also spoke positively about his communication with the Arsenal manager and said his objective is to make the most of every chance he receives.

That approach could become particularly important after Kai Havertz suffered a suspected hamstring injury during Germany’s 1-1 draw with the Netherlands.

Havertz was sent for a scan, potentially opening the door for Gyökeres to receive more minutes when Arsenal return to action.

Sweden opportunity could boost Arsenal confidence
Gyökeres still has further opportunities to build momentum during the international window, with Sweden facing Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Another goal could strengthen his confidence before returning to North London, but his immediate challenge remains translating his international form into consistent performances for Arsenal.

The finish against Romania was an encouraging first step. His next opportunity to answer the questions surrounding his form will come in an Arsenal shirt./alldaysport.net/