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Hugo Ekitike described his maiden France goal as a “childhood dream” as the Liverpool star netted in his country’s 4-0 win over Ukraine.
The Liverpool striker was introduced for the final 23 minutes of the World Cup qualifier at the Parc des Princes on Thursday and produced a sensational cameo that earned rave reviews in France.
Ekitike operated from a left-wing role and caused repeated issues with his direct dribbling in the wide areas. Brentford’s Yehor Yarmolyuk was booked for pulling the 23-year-old to the ground, while Ekitike also produced four shots during his brief showing. But the highlight came in the 88th minute when he swept the ball through the legs of Ukraine goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin to wrap up the scoring in Paris.
After collecting the ball out wide, Ekitike drove inside, linked with Kylian Mbappe at the edge of the box, and then stroked his shot low and hard into the away goal.
Speaking after the game, Liverpool’s summer signing said he was delighted with his impact off the bench.
“It's a childhood dream,” Ekitke told Footmercato. “Every time I get minutes on the pitch, I try to show my abilities and that I'm there to help the team, regardless of playing time and even off the pitch.
“I'm happy to be rewarded. I hit the post last time, and I hit it again this time, so I'm happy.”
Ekitike had not earned an international cap before signing for Liverpool in July. He has now played in all of Les Bleus’ last five games and may have secured his place in the squad for next summer’s World Cup.
“For now, I’m keeping a cool head,” he said. “I want to keep performing because I’m someone who’s enjoying himself and wants to continue doing what I’m doing.
“We’re going to keep scoring goals and contributing to victories. Of course, it’s a bit special; it’s a stadium I know well.
“Scoring my first goal for the French national team here is somewhat symbolic for me, and it feels like a victory.
“The coach was obviously happy for me. He showed faith in me by giving me those minutes, and I hope I repaid him. I felt he was happy, and I hope I can give him that feeling back.”
France’s 4-0 win on Thursday guaranteed the country's place at the World Cup next summer, becoming just the second European nation to do so after England.
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