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Former Arsenal star Joel Campbell, who Arsene Wenger described as ‘outstanding’, guides Costa Rica to final 2022 World Cup place with New Zealand victory
Joel Campbell never quite reached legendary status at Arsenal but, in Costa Rica, he's now a fully-fledged superstar.
The forward, who played 40 times for the Gunners under Arsene Wenger, became a national hero in his homeland after scoring the goal to send Costa Rica to the World Cup on Tuesday.
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His third-minute goal went unanswered, as the Central American side knocked New Zealand out in their World Cup play-off with a 1-0 win in Qatar.
It wasn't the most dazzling of finishes but Campbell and the Costa Rican fans won't care one bit, because it's a strike that means they will participate in just their sixth World Cup ever.
It was the ex-north Londoner's 25th goal for his country on his 117th cap.
Arsenal fans will remember the forward for featuring 30 times in the 2015/16 campaign, where he impressed alongside the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud in the Gunners frontline.
Former boss Wenger was full of praise for the winger during his time at the club, stating: "I very much like Joel for two reasons.
"Firstly, he has outstanding individual quality, but he's also a team player and works very hard for the team.
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"I'm convinced he'll get a chance here and he'll take it. He has another opportunity tonight and I'm hoping he'll show he has the quality to play for us."
Ultimately, Wenger decided he didn't, after loaning him out to Sporting CP and Real Betis, before eventually selling him to Italian side Frosinone.
It was something that disappointed Arsenal fans, who enjoyed watching the tenacious and skilful winger, who is now playing in Mexico with Monterrey.
Costa Rica are the final side to qualify for the tournament in Qatar and will join a tough group which contains Spain, Germany and Japan.
Perhaps impressive performances in Qatar could earn the 29-year-old a move back to the Premier League next year.
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