Arsenal faced a crucial test in their Champions League group stage as they battled Monaco in a thrilling encounter that would determine their next step toward the knockout rounds. The Gunners, despite struggling in the first half, eventually secured a 3-1 victory, keeping their hopes alive for direct qualification to the round of 16, without the need for a playoff. This victory was essential to avoid additional fixtures in February.
The match began with Arsenal showing signs of dominance but failing to capitalize on several chances. Gabriel Jesus, in particular, missed two golden opportunities, one of which was a one-on-one against Monaco’s goalkeeper, Radoslaw Majecki. Despite the missed chances, Arsenal’s breakthrough came in the 34th minute, courtesy of Bukayo Saka, whose goal followed a brilliant assist from 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, making his full Champions League debut. Lewis-Skelly had shown remarkable composure and physicality when he tricked past Monaco’s Eliesse Ben Seghir and set up Jesus for the cross that led to Saka’s tap-in.
Monaco, under manager Adi Hütter, responded with a tactical change at halftime, moving from a 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1 formation. This adjustment led to a brief Monaco resurgence, and they created several opportunities, including a missed chance by Breel Embolo. However, Arsenal’s resilience and Saka’s second goal, following a defensive blunder from Monaco, ensured they regained control. The goal was a gift, as Monaco’s Thilo Kehrer misplayed a pass back to Majecki, allowing Saka to seize the opportunity and score.
Substitute Kai Havertz then sealed the win, scoring from a Saka pass, although there was some controversy as the goal might have been an own goal by Kehrer. Despite some early struggles, Arsenal showed character and control, with Martin Ødegaard’s leadership in midfield and key contributions from players like Jesus and Saka. The victory sent Arsenal to third place in the group, with two crucial fixtures remaining against Dinamo Zagreb and Girona.
