Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League at the Emirates Stadium, taking full advantage of two costly mistakes by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The win marked the Gunnersโ first triumph in their 2024/25 Champions League campaign, with both goals coming in the first half courtesy of Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.
The game was a tight affair with few clear-cut chances for either side, but Arsenalโs ability to capitalize on set-pieces made all the difference. Both goals were created from crosses into the box, with Leandro Trossard playing a pivotal role in the opener. In the 20th minute, Trossard sent in a beautiful cross, but it was Donnarummaโs error that made the opportunity easier for Havertz. The PSG goalkeeper charged out of his area but misjudged the ballโs flight, allowing Havertz to nod it into the open net.
Fifteen minutes later, Donnarumma was at fault again, this time from a Bukayo Saka free-kick. Saka whipped in a low cross from the right side, and as it sailed through a crowded penalty area, the ball went untouched and snuck past Donnarumma, who failed to react in time as Arsenal doubled their lead.
Despite controlling much of the possession, PSG struggled to break down Arsenalโs disciplined defense. Their full-backs, Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, provided moments of threat in the first half, with Mendes coming close by hitting the woodwork. However, PSG couldnโt find a way to convert their possession into meaningful chances.
Arsenal, on the other hand, remained dangerous on the counter-attack. Early in the second half, Gabriel Martinelli had a golden opportunity to put the match beyond doubt when he found himself one-on-one with Donnarumma, but his shot was straight at the keeper. This missed chance left Arsenal vulnerable to a PSG comeback, and Joao Neves nearly made them pay, hitting the bar from a corner midway through the second half.
However, Arsenalโs defense, one of the strongest in Europe, held firm. They neutralized PSGโs attacking efforts, ensuring another clean sheet and keeping Luis Enriqueโs side at bay. PSGโs goal-scoring struggles in the competition continued, with their only goal in the Champions League so far this season being a late own goal against Girona.
Havertz was a standout performer, not only scoring the opening goal but also leading Arsenalโs high press, which caused numerous problems for PSGโs defense throughout the game. His performance reinforced why the need for Arsenal to sign another central striker has been largely dismissed.
This victory showcased Arsenalโs growing maturity on the European stage, as they managed the game well after taking the lead, limiting PSGโs opportunities and controlling the tempo when needed. It was a professional display from Mikel Artetaโs side, who now look to build on this performance as they continue their Champions League campaign.