Gabriel Martinelli Shines as Gunners Continue Strong Start in Group Stage
Arsenal earned a hard-fought 1-0 win against a resilient Shakhtar Donetsk side at the Emirates Stadium, securing seven points from their opening three UEFA Champions League group stage matches. Gabriel Martinelli’s 29th-minute strike proved decisive, as the Brazilian winger’s shot rebounded off the post and inadvertently deflected off Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk before rolling into the net.
Mikel Arteta’s side looked poised to double their lead when Kai Havertz, in pursuit of a club record for goals in consecutive matches, came close to scoring just before halftime. However, Shakhtar’s defense managed a last-ditch clearance to deny the German forward from heading home.
The second half saw Arsenal struggle to maintain their momentum, with a disjointed display leading to few clear chances. They were handed an opportunity to extend their lead when a VAR review awarded a soft handball penalty, only for Riznyk to block Leandro Trossard’s tame effort, keeping the Ukrainian side within touching distance.
Arsenal had to endure some nervy moments in the closing stages, as Shakhtar pushed for an equalizer, but the Gunners held on to secure another clean sheet. Despite a lackluster second-half performance, Arteta’s men are now in a strong position in their group as they turn their attention to a crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool this weekend.
Player of the Match – Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal)
Martinelli was at the heart of all of Arsenal’s attacking play, scoring the only goal and constantly creating danger for the Shakhtar defense.
His pace and creativity kept the visitors on their toes throughout, with his adventurous runs and accurate crosses causing problems for the opposition.
Player Ratings:
- Arsenal: Raya 7, White 5, Saliba 6, Gabriel 6, Calafiori 6, Rice 6, Partey 6, Jesus 6, Trossard 6, Martinelli 9, Havertz 7. Subs: Merino 6, Sterling 5, Lewis-Skelly 5, Jorginho n/a.
- Shakhtar Donetsk: Riznyk 8, Konoplia 6, Bondar 6, Matviienko 6, Henrique 6, Kryskiv 6, Zubkov 6, Bondarenko 6, Sudakov 7, Eguinaldo 8, Sikan 6. Subs: Pedrinho 6, Kevin 5, Traore 5, Gomes n/a.
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