Arsenal bolstered their hopes of automatic qualification for the Champions League knockout stage with a crucial victory over Monaco at the Emirates Stadium. The win, powered by a stellar performance from Bukayo Saka, keeps Arsenal in contention to avoid the grueling playoff round in February by securing direct entry to the round of 16.
Saka’s impact was evident throughout the match. The young winger opened the scoring in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a move initiated by 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, who made an assured full Champions League debut at left-back. Lewis-Skelly’s composure and vision were key in setting up Gabriel Jesus, whose cross found Saka for an easy finish at the far post.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance in the first half, their inability to convert numerous chances kept Monaco in the game. Gabriel Jesus, the focal point of Arsenal’s attack, squandered two golden opportunities, including a one-on-one against Monaco’s goalkeeper, Radoslaw Majecki. Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli also missed promising chances, adding to Arsenal’s frustration.
Monaco, struggling to contain Arsenal’s fluid attack, made tactical adjustments at halftime, switching to a 4-2-3-1 formation. The introduction of Takumi Minamino brought renewed energy, and Monaco began pressing higher and creating opportunities. Breel Embolo and Minamino both came close to equalizing, but their finishing let them down.
Saka’s second goal late in the match extinguished Monaco’s hopes of a comeback. A misplaced pass from Monaco captain Thilo Kehrer and a subsequent error by Mohammed Salisu allowed Kai Havertz to apply pressure. Majecki’s attempt to clear the danger ended with the ball at Saka’s feet, and the winger calmly slotted it into the net. Havertz added a third goal shortly after, converting a pass from Saka, though there was some debate over whether it should be credited as a Kehrer own goal.
Arsenal’s defense, depleted by injuries to five key players, relied on Lewis-Skelly to step into an unfamiliar role. His standout moment came when he received a crossfield pass from Odegaard and deftly bypassed Monaco’s Eliesse Ben Seghir, showcasing strength and skill before delivering a precise ball to Jesus on the left flank. This move underscored Arsenal’s tactical adaptability and the depth of their young talent.
Despite the win, Arsenal’s first-half wastefulness highlighted a recurring issue. Jesus, who has struggled for form this season with just one goal in the Carabao Cup, will need to improve his finishing as Arsenal face critical fixtures. The Gunners’ reliance on Saka for decisive moments has been a constant this season, and his ability to deliver under pressure continues to inspire confidence.
Arsenal’s next group stage matches, against Dinamo Zagreb and Girona, offer a favorable path to securing a top-two finish in the group. Arteta’s side will need to maintain focus and capitalize on their momentum to ensure they avoid the additional playoff games in February.
Monaco, making their first group stage appearance since 2018-19, showed flashes of their potential but ultimately fell short. Manager Adi Hütter’s second-half adjustments highlighted his tactical acumen, but defensive errors and missed chances undermined their efforts. The loss leaves Monaco with work to do in their remaining matches to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
For Arsenal, the victory not only boosts their qualification hopes but also demonstrates the resilience and quality of their squad. Saka’s brilliance, coupled with the emergence of young talents like Lewis-Skelly, bodes well for the Gunners as they aim to solidify their place among Europe’s elite.
