Arsenal vs PSG Report
Scorers: Havertz 20’, Saka 35’
Arsenal extended their longest unbeaten streak under Mikel Arteta to 15 matches (W12, D3) by securing a 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the UEFA Champions League.
The Gunners put on a commanding display at the Emirates Stadium, taking control early and maintaining their lead throughout the match.
First Half: Arsenal Dominate and Take the Lead
The Gunners started on the front foot, creating the first chance of the game through Bukayo Saka, who cut in from the right and curled a dangerous shot just wide of Gianluigi Donnarumma’s post.
Defensively, Arsenal remained alert as Riccardo Calafiori thwarted Achraf Hakimi’s run with a crucial challenge.
The breakthrough came for Arsenal in the 20th minute when Leandro Trossard raced down the left wing and delivered a superb cross, allowing Kai Havertz to rise and head the ball past Donnarumma, giving the former Chelsea man his first UCL goal for the Gunners.
PSG, penned back for long periods, found some attacking opportunities as Nuno Mendes hit the post and David Raya denied Hakimi’s effort. However, Arsenal doubled their advantage just before halftime.
After Saka was fouled by Mendes, he stepped up to take the resulting free-kick, which eluded everyone and found the back of the net. Donnarumma’s lack of command over his area was evident as the ball slipped past him, putting Arsenal firmly in control at 2-0.
Second Half: Arsenal’s Composure Secures the Win
Having seen a 2-0 lead evaporate against Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday, Arsenal showed they had learned their lesson.
They came out after the break with renewed focus, looking for a third goal, and Donnarumma was forced to make a quick save from Gabriel Martinelli. Arsenal’s defense, anchored by the relentless Gabriel, held firm against PSG’s attempts to find a way back into the match.
There was more reason for the Emirates crowd to cheer just after the hour mark, as Mikel Merino made his long-awaited debut, replacing Thomas Partey after recovering from injury.
PSG, sensing the urgency, pushed forward and nearly clawed their way back into the game. João Neves rattled the crossbar, and Lee Kang-in’s swerving shot was parried away by Raya, momentarily raising the tension among the home supporters. However, Arsenal remained composed, and the visitors couldn’t find a way through.
Arsenal Extend Unbeaten Record Against PSG
PSG have now faced Arsenal five times in European competitions (D3, L2) without a single victory — the most they’ve played against any team without securing a win. The French champions will turn their focus back to Ligue 1, facing OGC Nice on Sunday, while Arteta’s Arsenal aim to maintain their momentum by taking on Southampton in their next UCL fixture.
Key Moments
- Havertz’s Header (20′): Kai Havertz scores his first UCL goal for Arsenal, nodding in Leandro Trossard’s cross.
- Saka’s Free-Kick (39′): Bukayo Saka’s delivery from a free-kick goes straight into the net, catching Donnarumma off-guard to make it 2-0.
- Raya’s Crucial Saves: David Raya denies Hakimi in the first half and parries away a swerving effort from Lee Kang-in in the second, preserving Arsenal’s clean sheet.
- Merino Debut (65′): Mikel Merino makes his long-awaited Arsenal debut, replacing Thomas Partey.
Conclusion
Arsenal showcased control, composure, and clinical finishing to dispatch PSG and extend their unbeaten run.
The Gunners’ ability to manage their lead and maintain defensive solidity will be a confidence boost for Arteta’s side as they look to continue their positive start in the UCL. PSG, still searching for their first win against Arsenal, will look to bounce back in Ligue 1 action.
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Arsenal vs Paris | UEFA Champions League 2024/25