How Did Martinelli's Early Goal Help Arsenal Secure Their Perfect Champions League Start?
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Synopsis
Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli shines with an early goal in a 2-0 victory over Olympiacos, maintaining the team's flawless Champions League run. This match showcases the tactical flexibility of Mikel Arteta and the team's depth as they prepare for upcoming challenges in both the league and Europe.
Key Takeaways
- Martinelli's early goal sets the momentum for Arsenal's victory.
- Arteta's tactical rotations showcase the team's depth.
- Arsenal maintains a perfect record in the Champions League group stage.
- Defensive resilience continues with 11 clean sheets in 14 matches.
- Upcoming challenge against West Ham is crucial before the international break.
London, Oct 2 (NationPress) Gabriel Martinelli netted an early goal, propelling Arsenal to a 2-0 victory against Olympiacos, thus preserving the Premier League club's flawless start in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
In the 12th minute, Martinelli capitalized on a rebound after Viktor Gyokeres’ shot was saved by Konstantinos Tzolakis and deflected off the post. The Brazilian forward had also contributed with a goal and an assist in Arsenal's opening match against Athletic Club.
Manager Mikel Arteta made significant changes, rotating six players from the weekend win over Newcastle.
Olympiacos posed a threat for an equalizer, as Daniel Podence forced David Raya into a brilliant save, and Francisco Chiquinho had a goal ruled out for offside.
Martin Odegaard was denied by Tzolakis, but substitute Bukayo Saka secured the win in stoppage time with a low shot that slipped through the goalkeeper's legs.
Arteta commented, “Winning the Champions League is always very complicated, keeping another clean sheet, we make something like 11 in 14 games, which is remarkable from the boys. I think we started the game really well, I think we looked a real threat, really dynamic, really playing forwards around a lot of threats. Generally to the goal another two or three big chances and we don’t put them away in this competition.”
The Gunners will return to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday to face West Ham United in the Premier League, marking the last match before the October international break. They will resume against Fulham on October 18.
In other news, Anthony Gordon scored two penalties, leading Newcastle United to their largest victory in the Champions League proper, defeating Union Saint-Gilloise 4-0.
Summer signing Nick Woltemade opened the scoring in the 17th minute by redirecting a low shot from Sandro Tonali past a wrong-footed Kjell Scherpen.
Gordon added two more from the penalty spot around halftime, and substitute Harvey Barnes concluded the scoring with a counterattack finish just over ten minutes from the end.
Point of View
This match underscores Arsenal's strategic depth and adaptability under Mikel Arteta. The Gunners are not only performing well in domestic competitions but are also positioning themselves as serious contenders in Europe. Their consistent performances reflect a well-coached, resilient team ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Arsenal vs Olympiacos match?
Arsenal defeated Olympiacos 2-0.
Who scored the opening goal for Arsenal?
Gabriel Martinelli scored the opening goal in the 12th minute.
How many changes did Mikel Arteta make to the lineup?
Mikel Arteta made six changes to the lineup from the previous match against Newcastle.
When will Arsenal play their next match?
Arsenal's next match is against West Ham United on Saturday.
What notable performance did Anthony Gordon have?
Anthony Gordon scored two penalties to help Newcastle United win 4-0 against Union Saint-Gilloise.
