Arsenal Secure Second Champions League Win With Martinelli and Saka Goals

Arsenal continued their perfect start in the UEFA Champions League group stage, collecting six points from their first two matches after a confident 2-0 win over Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli and substitute Bukayo Saka ensured the Gunners maintained their place at the top of their group.

MARTINELLI AND SAKA MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Arsenal started strongly, with Gabriel Martinelli opening the scoring just 12 minutes into the match. The Brazilian was perfectly placed to tap in a rebound after Viktor Gyökeres’ shot was saved and crashed off the post. Olympiakos had dangerous moments, especially through Ayoub El Kaabi, but his effort was ruled offside.

In the second half, Arsenal weathered periods of increased Olympiakos pressure. David Raya was called into action several times, making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. The result was secured in stoppage time when Bukayo Saka, coming off the bench, finished a neat move by firing between the goalkeeper’s legs after a pass from Martin Ødegaard. This marked Saka’s third goal in the last five games, underlining his vital role for the team this season.

ARSENAL’S FORM: DEFENCE AND ATTACK IN HARMONY

With this victory, Arsenal have now achieved two wins from two in their Champions League group, scoring four and conceding none. Their defensive record is the best among all teams appearing in the last two editions of the competition, with just 0.69 goals conceded per game (18 in 26 matches). Martinelli’s and Saka’s excellent form has mirrored the team’s overall confidence; the Brazilian has now scored in three of his last five appearances. Arsenal currently sit in second place in the Premier League, closely trailing Liverpool, and are pushing for their first league title since 2004.

WHAT’S NEXT: BIG TEST AGAINST ATLETICO MADRID

Arsenal’s next Champions League challenge comes at home against Atletico Madrid, a match that promises to test their form and resolve. Atletico are on 3 points in the competition and just three points behind Arsenal in the group standings with the match being played in Spain. Domestically, Arsenal will face West Ham United this weekend, who currently sit in 19th place in the Premier League. Maintaining their winning momentum in both competitions will be crucial as the fixtures intensify in October.