Arsenal climbed into the top eight of the Champions League standings with a narrow 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Gunners needed an own goal from opposing goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to secure a win which was far from comfortable after a valiant effort from the Ukranian side, with Leandro Trossard missing a second-half penalty.
Tuesday’s victory takes Mikel Arteta’s men to fifth in the standings ahead of the week’s remaining fixtures after recording two wins and a draw so far.
Riccardo Califiori had the first good chance six minutes in but the defender could not direct his effort goalwards.
Opportunities continued to come Arsenal’s way but went ahead in fortunate circumstances just inside half an hour when Gabriel Martinelli’s effort hit the post then bounced in off goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.
Securing all three points in N5 🔐 pic.twitter.com/L7xIgtIxuO
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 22, 2024
The Gunners had plenty of chances to double their lead, particularly through striker Gabriel Jesus, but the Brazilian’s wastefulness meant their lead was at just one going into the break.
It could have been more comfortable for the hosts late on when they won a penalty but Trossard’s poor spot-kick was easily saved.
And they needed an excellent stop from David Raya to prevent them losing the lead late on after a fine effort from Pedrinho from the edge of the box.
But the win, however unconvincing, will be music to Arteta’s ears as they bounced back from defeat to Bournemouth ahead of a crucial game against table-toppers Liverpool on Sunday.
