Arsenal made a statement on their return to Europe’s elite stage with a confident 2–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés.
The hosts started strongly but could not test David Raya, with Adama Boiro going closest as his goalbound free kick was blocked.
Arsenal started to gain control as the half progressed, though, and Viktor Gyökeres had two chances to score. The first produced the half’s only shot on target, as he ran in behind before striking with his weaker left foot, but Unai Simón saved comfortably. The second was a diving header that flashed wide from Jurriën Timber’s cross, yet the Gunners could not convert as the game remained goalless at HT.
Mikel Arteta had this to say on his changes which made impact; ” Unbelievable both him and um Leo, they have very different qualities and to Eps and Victor but they come I look at them immediately, they were ready immediately. They were connecting with each other and very pleased because uh I told them most of the time you’re going to be guys more important than the ones starting. So the quality of minutes is going to be critical..”
In the end, the visitors’ bench made all the difference, with two substitutes combining to swing the contest their way. Leandro Trossard slipped the ball through to Gabriel Martinelli, who broke clear and calmly slotted past Simón less than a minute after entering the pitch. Moments later, the pair linked up again—this time Martinelli turning provider as Trossard’s deflected effort found the back of the net to secure the victory.
The result was harsh on Athletic, who have now endured back-to-back home defeats, while Arsenal extended their unbeaten streak in opening European fixtures to nine. Attention now shifts to the weekend’s Premier League clash with Manchester City.
By: Philip Tandoh
