UCL: Arsenal narrowly beat Shakhtar Donetsk
Arsenal 1 - 0 Shakhtar Donetsk
Arsenal secured a vital Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk, aided by an own goal from goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk, as they bounced back from their weekend defeat to Bournemouth.
Author - Craig H from GMCR Football
Gabriel Martinelli’s strike in the 29th minute rebounded off the post, hitting Riznyk’s back before creeping over the line, reflecting Arsenal’s strong start. The Gunners looked lively from the off, with Riccardo Calafiori missing a good early chance to break the deadlock. Gabriel Jesus then saw a solid opportunity saved by Riznyk after the opener.
Shakhtar were well-drilled and posed a counter-attacking threat, with winger Eguinaldo keeping Arsenal’s defence busy throughout.
Mikel Arteta’s side are already grappling with injury issues, missing key figures like captain Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka. The manager could face fresh concerns, as Ben White didn’t return for the second half, possibly due to being on a yellow card, and Calafiori was taken off after a nasty fall.
Leandro Trossard had the chance to double the lead late on from the penalty spot after the VAR ruled Valerii Bondar's arm was in an unnatural position. However, his tame effort was comfortably saved by the standout Riznyk.
There was a late scare for Arsenal when Pedrinho nearly levelled for the visitors in stoppage time, but David Raya pulled off a brilliant save to preserve the lead.
After a disappointing loss to Bournemouth, Arsenal will be relieved to return to winning ways and can now turn their attention to a crucial clash against league leaders Liverpool on Sunday.
A closer look at what happened at the Emirates
Arsenal's manager will begin the build-up to Liverpool's visit to North London knowing that the performance against Shakhtar was nothing like their best. Several Arsenal fans also expressed to us some concerns about upcoming matches.
One Arsenal fan, DJ from Hackney, said: "That was a very unconvincing win and a strange performance. In the latter stages of the game, it seemed that we allowed Shakhtar to get back into the game. However, a win is a win and that’s seven points from three Champions League games. You'd imagine Arteta will be disappointed and will want our attacking players to be more clinical."
