Arsenal vs Monaco Report
Scorers: Saka 34’, 78’, Havertz 88’
A Bukayo Saka brace and a Kai Havertz late goal ensured Arsenal maintained their unbeaten home record in the UEFA Champions League (UCL), cruising past Monaco to claim a 3-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners moved into the top three of the league phase, taking another step toward securing their place in the knockout stages.
First Half: Arsenal Break Through
Both sides entered the match level on points, but Arsenal, keen to bounce back from a 1-1 draw at Fulham over the weekend, began brightly. Gabriel Jesus nearly connected with a drilled cross from Mikel Merino in the opening exchanges, signaling Arsenal’s intent to dictate the game.
However, breaking down Monaco’s compact defensive structure proved challenging. Arsenal relied on varied methods of attack, including a stunning long pass from Jakub Kiwior to Jesus, who was denied by Monaco keeper Radosław Majecki.
Despite further chances from Jesus, it wasn’t until the 34th minute that Arsenal found the breakthrough.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, making his full UCL debut, showcased composure by side stepping Maghnes Akliouche before delivering a perfectly weighted ball to Jesus. The Brazilian’s cross found Bukayo Saka at the back post, who tapped in for the opener.
Before the interval, Martin Ødegaard squandered an opportunity to double the lead after an interception, while Gabriel Martinelli walked a tightrope, having already been booked.
Second Half: Saka Shines
Monaco looked to respond early in the second half, with Thilo Kehrer heading wide from a set-piece and Breel Embolo firing off-target on the turn. Yet, Arsenal’s defense, marshaled by David Raya, remained untested as the Gunners regained control.
Monaco’s undoing came from their attempts to play out from the back. Mohammed Salisu’s misjudged pass left Majecki exposed, forcing the goalkeeper into a hasty clearance.
Kai Havertz capitalized on the error, pressuring Majecki into gifting the ball to Saka, who slotted home his second of the night in the 78th minute.
The Gunners sealed the victory in the 88th minute when a quick free-kick caught Monaco off guard. Saka’s shot was deflected into the path of Havertz, who made no mistake from close range, completing the 3-0 rout.
What’s Next?
Arsenal return to domestic action on Saturday, hosting Everton at the Emirates, where they’ll aim to extend their impressive home scoring streak. Monaco, still chasing a top-eight UCL finish, must regroup quickly before resuming league duties the same day.
This emphatic win reinforces Arsenal’s credentials in Europe and keeps them well-placed to advance to the knockout stages. For Monaco, it’s a reminder of the fine margins that separate success and failure in elite competition.
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Arsenal vs Monaco | UEFA Champions League 2024/25