UEFA League Arsenal VS Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 Highlights

Arsenal continued their unbeaten run in the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium. A first-half own goal by Shakhtar keeper Dmytro Riznyk proved decisive, handing the Gunners three crucial points as they aim to progress from the group stage.

Vide Highlights

Arsenal VS Shakhtar Donetsk LINEUPS

UEFA League Standings 2024-2025 Matchday 3

Match Summary: How the Game Was Won

The decisive moment came when Gabriel Martinelli struck a low shot that ricocheted off the post. In a stroke of luck for Arsenal, the ball hit the back of Shakhtar’s goalkeeper Riznyk, and trickled into the net for an unfortunate own goal. Despite the bizarre nature of the goal, it gave Arsenal a lead they would not relinquish.

The Gunners had multiple chances to extend their advantage. One of the most significant opportunities arrived after a VAR review awarded them a penalty for a handball following Mikel Merino’s cross. However, Leandro Trossard’s effort from the spot was denied by Riznyk, keeping Shakhtar in the game.

On the defensive end, goalkeeper David Raya made an impressive late save to protect Arsenal’s slender lead, ensuring their unbeaten run in the competition continued.

Key Takeaways from Arsenal’s Performance

• Unbeaten Streak Continues: Arsenal remain unbeaten in the group stage, collecting three vital points to stay on course for qualification to the knockout rounds.
• Martinelli’s Impact: Although not officially credited with the goal, Martinelli’s energetic play and powerful shot created the winning moment.
• Mixed Finishing: Arsenal will feel frustrated at missing several good chances, including the penalty miss by Trossard, leaving room for improvement in future matches.
• Solid Defensive Performance: Raya’s crucial late save and the team’s overall defensive discipline ensured another clean sheet, reinforcing Arsenal’s solidity at the back.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Arsenal now sit in a strong position within their group. However, the narrow margin highlights the importance of clinical finishing as the tournament progresses. They’ll need to sharpen their attack ahead of tougher fixtures to maximize their chances of a deep run in the Champions League.

This hard-fought win, though not flashy, shows Arsenal’s growing maturity and ability to grind out results—a trait that could prove essential in the later stages of the competition.