Ivory Coast international, Nicolas Pepe showed class in Arsenal’s 3-1 thumping of Crystal Palace in their penultimate English premier league game at the Selhurst Park on Wednesday.
The Ivorian, who has gradually warmed his way into Mikel Arteta’s starting eleven grabbed a brace with Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli scoring a second in between.
The Gunners opened the flood gate on the 35th minute after Pepe slapped in a Kieran Tierny cross from the left.
The score line remained 1-0 going into the break with Ghana international, Jeffrey Schlupp and Egypt midfielder, Mohammed ElNeny receiving yellow cards on the 5th and the 37th minute respectively.
Back from recess, Andros Townsend’s free kick was headed home by Belgium striker, Christian Benteke for Palace equalizer on the 62nd minute.
Sensing danger, the record English FA Cup holders gathered themselves quickly, taking the game to the home side.
With a minute into added time, Gabriel Martinelli scored a scrappy goal from on loan Real Madrid forward, Martin Ordegaard’s cross to send Arsenal back into the lead.
In the 95th minute, Nicolas Pepe rose to the occasion once again to ice the cake for Arsenal after he slalomed past two defenders to slot home the third and final goal.
The win pushes Arsenal just a step into 9th with 58 points with a game to end the season.
Crystal Palace will be without manager, Roy Hodgson next season as he departs the club.
Other African stars saw action with Ghana international, Jeffrey Schlupp, Senegal international, Cheikou Kouyate and Ivory Coast Winger, Wilfried Zaha playing full time for Palace.
Jordan Ayew joined the fray in the 79th minute, replacing Christian Benteke.
Thomas Partey enjoyed 78 minute before making way for Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal also had Gabon striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Egypt midfielder, Mohammed ElNeny for 90 minutes.
