Arsenal maintained their unbeaten Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium, though the win proved less straightforward than many expected for Mikel Arteta’s side.
The decisive moment came when Gabriel Martinelli’s shot struck the post and deflected in off Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk for an own goal after 30 minutes of patient Arsenal possession. The breakthrough came after sustained pressure from the hosts, who had found themselves frustrated by a resolute Ukrainian defense.
Arsenal’s control of the match was tested early in the second half following a tactical adjustment that saw Thomas Partey shift to right back, replacing the cautioned Ben White, with Mikel Merino entering the midfield. The change initially disrupted the Gunners’ rhythm, leading to a series of turnovers that allowed Shakhtar to establish a foothold in Arsenal’s half.
The hosts squandered a chance to double their lead in the 77th minute when Leandro Trossard saw his penalty saved by Riznyk, who partially redeemed himself for the earlier own goal. The spot kick, awarded controversially for a handball against Valeriy Bondar, was struck tamely down the middle.
Shakhtar pressed for an equalizer in the closing stages, forcing several saves from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, but the London side held firm to secure all three points.
Martinelli emerged as the standout performer, creating five chances and completing three successful dribbles while consistently troubling Shakhtar right-back Yukhym Konoplia. The Brazilian’s influence was particularly evident in the build-up to the winning goal, his shot leading to the fortunate deflection that decided the contest.
Despite conceding the own goal, Shakhtar keeper Riznyk impressed with several crucial saves, including the penalty stop that kept his team in contention until the final whistle.
The victory helps Arsenal strengthen their position in the Champions League group phase as they continue their return to Europe’s premier competition.
