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Fabio Vieira made an instant impression on his home debut for Hamburger SV, playing a starring role in their first Bundesliga win of the season.
The Portuguese midfielder, who joined from Arsenal on loan this summer, endured a difficult introduction against Bayern Munich last weekend as HSV were comfortably beaten.
But in front of his new supporters at the Volksparkstadion, he produced a performance full of quality and character, underlining why the club moved for him in the final days of the transfer window.
Vieira rose to the occasion, dictating play from the centre of midfield and emerging as the difference-maker.
The 25-year-old completed 96% of his passes, created three chances, including two clear-cut opportunities, and registered an assist. He also won the free-kick that led to the opening goal before providing the cross for Rayan Philippe's decisive strike.
When Vieira was substituted after 79 minutes, with HSV leading 2-0, the home crowd responded with a standing ovation.
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"We haven't had someone like him at the Volkspark for a long time," stadium announcer Christian Stubinger declared as he walked off.
His teammates echoed the praise. Goalkeeper Daniel Heuer Fernandes described him as a calming influence:
"Fabio has helped us tremendously because he can control the game and give us peace of mind. Those are exactly the moments we need."
Interim manager Merlin Polzin was equally complimentary: "Fabio is a player who can make the difference; he's an absolute asset. That's why we decided to use him centrally. From there, he can have even more influence."
Hamburg's 2-1 win lifted them out of the relegation zone and into 14th place.
With an option to buy included in his loan deal, valued around €20 million ($23m), further displays of this level could tempt HSV into making his stay permanent.
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