Arsenal claimed their first win under the new Champions League format with a confident performance against Paris St-Germain at the Emirates Stadium.
After a draw in their opening match against Atalanta, Mikel Arteta’s team dominated the first half, securing a two-goal lead.
Kai Havertz broke the deadlock with a header from Leandro Trossard’s cross, and Bukayo Saka doubled the advantage with a curling free-kick that found its way past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
PSG had their opportunities, with Nuno Mendes and Joao Neves both hitting the woodwork, but Arsenal’s commanding first-half display set the tone for the evening.
Havertz’s opener came 20 minutes in, as he outjumped Donnarumma to head in from Trossard’s precise delivery.
Moments later, Saka’s free-kick from near the touchline caught Donnarumma off guard, sailing into the net through a packed penalty area.
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Although PSG, now without their former superstars Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Neymar, put pressure on Arsenal in the second half, the Gunners stood firm.
Arteta even introduced new signing Mikel Merino, who made his debut following his £31m transfer from Real Sociedad, on a night that proved rewarding for the North London side.
Arsenal could have extended their lead, with Gabriel Martinelli coming close to a third goal, only to shoot directly at Donnarumma.
Despite PSG’s efforts to push forward, Arsenal managed to keep control, securing a well-earned victory and maintaining their composure in the closing stages.
Player Of The Match: Bukayo Saka
Saka was handed the captain’s armband for his side’s first home match of the tournament, and rose to the occasion by leading from the front.
Was a constant threat in the first period when Arsenal did all the heavy lifting on their way to a comfortable win.
PLAYER RATINGS
Arsenal:
Raya 7, Timber 6, Saliba 8, Gabriel 8, Calafiori 7, Saka 8, Partey 7, Rice 7, Martinelli 7, Havertz 7, Trossard 7 Subs: Gabriel Jesus 6, Kiwior 6, Merino 6, Lewis-Skelly 6,
PSG:
Donnarumma 6, Hakimi 7, Marquinhos 7, Pacho 6, Nuno Mendes 7, Zaire Emery 6, Vitinha 6, Neves 6, Doue 6, Lee 6, Barcola 6 Subs: Fabian Ruiz 7, Muani 7
