Arsenal Edges Shakhtar Donetsk with Scrappy 1-0 Win

In a closely contested match, Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday. The win marked a welcome bounce-back for the Gunners following their first domestic league defeat of the season at the hands of Bournemouth on Saturday.

Arsenal got off to a fast start, with Brazilians Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus both squandering good opportunities before a fortunate opener in the 29th minute sealed the win. Martinelli’s low shot rebounded off the post and off the back of Shakhtar keeper Dmytro Riznyk for the only goal of the game.

Despite missing a penalty in the second half and failing to capitalize on numerous chances, Arsenal held on to claim their second win in three Champions League matches. The hosts’ relief was palpable, especially after Shakhtar captain Mykola Matviyenko’s timely intervention to hook the ball off the line and prevent a diving Kai Havertz from nodding in before halftime.

Manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the hosts’ struggles, stating, "We had four big, big chances (in the first half). We should have converted them and put the game to bed. We looked tired and lacked sharpness with and without the ball in the second half."

For Shakhtar Donetsk, who remain winless in the Champions League this season, the pursuit of an equalizer continued until the final whistle. Substitute Pedrinho’s long-range effort in stoppage time was magnificently saved by Arsenal keeper David Raya.

"I think we deserved an equalizer," Shakhtar coach Marino Pusic lamented. "We were chasing for an equalizer till the end of the game… we did our best."

With this victory, Arsenal provisionally jumps into the top four of the new 36-team league phase. Their next test comes in the form of an away match against Inter Milan, while Shakhtar will aim to bounce back against Young Boys at home.

As the Champions League unfolds, this narrow win serves as a timely reminder of Arsenal’s resilience in the face of adversity.