UCL: ØDEGAARD STRIKE EARNS ARSENAL 1-0 WIN AT NAPOLI
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Martin Ødegaard’s 75th-minute goal gave Arsenal a deserved 1-0 victory over Napoli in their Champions League league-phase opener at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday night.
The Arsenal captain produced a moment of brilliance when he curled a left-footed shot from outside the box into the far corner, with substitute Christos Tzolis providing the assist.
The goal rewarded Arsenal’s dominance after the visitors had created the better chances and registered more than 20 attempts on goal.
Mikel Arteta’s side controlled possession for long spells, while Napoli struggled to find a way through a disciplined Arsenal defence under manager Massimiliano Allegri.
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Arsenal had already recorded 13 shots in the first half, their highest total in a Champions League away game, but failed to break the deadlock.
Mikel Merino saw an early header saved by Alex Meret, while Bukayo Saka fired over after finding himself in a promising position shortly before half-time.
Piero Hincapié also missed a good opportunity early in the second half when he headed over from close range.
Arteta’s substitutions, including Tzolis and Noni Madueke, injected additional energy into Arsenal’s attack, eventually leading to Ødegaard’s decisive strike.
Madueke later missed an opportunity to double the advantage when he failed to convert a one-on-one chance.
Napoli, who were without key players including Scott McTominay, struggled to seriously threaten Arsenal, with goalkeeper David Raya rarely called into action.
Arsenal held firm through four minutes of added time to secure a clean sheet and begin their European campaign with three points.
The victory also maintained the Gunners’ perfect start to the season across all competitions.
Arsenal will now turn their attention to Saturday’s Premier League trip to Sunderland before facing Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup and Brighton & Hove Albion in their final game before the international break.
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