Arsenal kicked off their UEFA Champions League in style with a controlled 2-0 win against Athletic Club in Bilbao, securing three important points in Matchday 1 and establishing themselves as early group frontrunners.
Second half surge from Arsenal
In a tight clash, both teams managed 11 shots each, but Arsenal showed a cutting edge in the second half to break the deadlock. Gabriel Martinelli scored the opener in th 72nd minute of the match, capping off an incisive attacking move to put Arsenal ahead. Leandro Trossard scored the winner with a clinical finish in the 87th minute.
Match statistics
Arsenal’s superior possession (62%) and passing accuracy (83%) enabled them to control the rhythm of the match, outpassing Athletic Club by a wide margin (490 to 302 passes). Although both teams registered the same number of shots, Arsenal produced far more quality chances with 6 shots on target to Athletic’s 2.
Arsenal's solid defence
While Athletic Club committed 18 fouls and got one yellow card, Arsenal kept managed to maintain their discipline with three yellow cards and received only 15 foul, showcasing composure under pressure. The Londoners' defense remained calm, keeping Athletic at bay and ensuring David Raya kept a clean sheet.
Implications for the group
The win places Arsenal second in the early group standings, level with Union Saint-Gilloise, Qarabag FK, Real Madrid, and Tottenham on three points after the opening round of matches. Athletic Club, on the other hand, will need to bounce back quickly to keep their Champions League hopes alive after a frustrating night at San Mamés.