NEW DELHI: Arsenal celebrated their return to the Champions League with a stunning 4-0 win over PSV Eindhoven. The Gunners, back in Europe’s elite club competition after a six-year absence, made a statement of intent in their opening group stage game.
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring with his first-ever Champions League goal, capitalizing on a rebound from Martin Odegaard’s shot. Saka then turned provider and set up Leandro Trossard, who scored Arsenal’s second goal with a fine finish.
Trossard, who had previously put the ball into the net, set up Gabriel Jesus, who made it 3-0 for Arsenal. In the second half, Odegaard continued the celebration with a great shot from 20 meters away.
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta praised his team’s performance and said: “We were excellent in both penalty areas, that was the difference. When you see this team running and full of pace, it’s a joy to watch. The finish was first class. “To score four goals against a team that has won every game this season is extraordinary.”
Arsenal, who last played in the Champions League in 2017, have shown their progress since then. The win gives them a strong position in Group B, which also includes Sevilla and Lens.
Arteta, who was in charge of his first Champions League game as manager, expressed his excitement at returning to the competition, saying: “It was a wonderful evening after such a long time. It was great to see the atmosphere and the Champions League music.” It was emotional before the game. We have to exploit this energy. I was really excited, but I wanted to control my emotions. We have to enjoy these evenings. It’s something that stays with us.”
The Gunners’ next challenge in the Champions League will be to build on this performance and continue their winning ways in the tournament.
(With AFP inputs)
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