Arsenal delivered a strong performance to secure a 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium, marking their first win in this season’s Champions League.
The Gunners took the lead in the first half when Kai Havertz found space between two defenders to connect with Leandro Trossard’s inviting cross, scoring with a powerful header past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Arsenal showcased their set-piece strength for the second goal, as Bukayo Saka, usually the provider, stepped up to score with a well-placed free-kick that navigated through traffic to find the back of the net.
Despite having opportunities to extend their lead, Arsenal faced resilient resistance from PSG. Trossard was denied by Donnarumma at close range shortly after the second goal, and Gabriel Martinelli had two efforts saved by the PSG goalkeeper in the second half.
Luis Enrique’s revamped PSG side, missing Kylian Mbappe and fielding an average age of just 23, created their own chances. Nuno Mendes struck the post with a long-range shot in the first half, and Joao Neves hit the bar from a corner later on. Yet, Arsenal held firm throughout the second half, with Mikel Arteta introducing summer signing Mikel Merino off the bench for his debut. The only concern for Arsenal was the halftime exit of Jurrien Timber; Arteta commented that the defender “felt something muscular” and emphasized the need to avoid risks.
Following a goalless draw against Atalanta in their opening Champions League match, this win propelled Arsenal into the upper ranks of the league phase table, leaving PSG languishing in 18th place.
Arteta: Confidence Boost from the Win
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta conveyed his thoughts in the post-match press conference, saying, “This win boosts our confidence and belief that we can compete with any team at this level, especially in matches that differ from what we face in the Premier League. We showed maturity and left our mark in Europe against a top opposition. I sensed an eagerness in the players tonight; they wanted to prove a point. This is another step forward for us, and I think they needed this special night against a big European club.”
Analysis: Havertz Shines in Key Victory
Sky Sports’ Nick Wright noted, “This was expected to be one of Arsenal’s toughest challenges in the league phase. However, aside from a brief shaky period in the second half, it felt very routine. In that regard, it was a statement win, showcasing Arsenal’s ability to dismantle one of Europe’s elite teams.”
Arsenal effectively showcased both their offensive and defensive capabilities: they scored one goal from open play and another from a set-piece in the first half, then tamped down PSG’s attempts to rally after the break.
Havertz had a standout match, further solidifying his role as Arsenal’s primary striker. His goal was his fifth of the season across all competitions and his third in as many games, following performances against Bolton and Leicester. The German international displayed classic centre-forward instincts with his well-timed run to meet Trossard’s accurate cross, exhibiting bravery in reaching the ball before the advancing Donnarumma.
Arteta praised Havertz’s versatility, stating, “His football intelligence, understanding of space, and timing are exceptional. His work ethic is incredible, and now he is a genuine threat in the attacking third. He is becoming one of our key players.”
Luis Enrique Takes Responsibility for PSG’s Defeat
In his post-match comments, PSG manager Luis Enrique admitted, “It would be wrong to place blame on individual players. The defeat rests with me; I take full responsibility.
“Gigi [Donnarumma] performed on par with his teammates, which wasn’t close to the standard we needed to win. We struggled against their pressing, they won every duel. It was a completely deserved defeat for us and a well-earned victory for Arsenal.”
He added, “It’s impossible to compete if you are not winning duels. Their defenders read our strikers’ movements better than we anticipated theirs. We fell short from the very first minute.”
Credit: Sky Sports
