Martin Odegaard continued his impressive start to the season by scoring the decisive goal as Arsenal secured a hard-fought victory over Napoli in Naples in their opening Champions League fixture.
The Arsenal captain struck from outside the box to spare the Gunners’ blushes after Mikel Arteta’s side had wasted several clear opportunities to take control of the match.
The victory is Arsenal’s first Champions League outing since their agonising defeat in last season’s final, and the result gives them an ideal start to their latest European campaign.
Odegaard Comes to Arsenal’s Rescue
With the match heading towards a frustrating draw, Odegaard stepped up with a composed finish from outside the penalty area to send the club’s 1,500 travelling supporters into celebration.
The goal was the captain’s fourth in five games, including the Community Shield, underlining his strong start to the campaign.
Arsenal had dominated much of the contest but struggled to convert their chances against last season’s Serie A runners-up.
Mikel Merino had a golden opportunity to mark his first club start since January, but the Spain international headed straight at Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret midway through the first half.
Bukayo Saka then came close to breaking the deadlock but lifted his effort over the crossbar, before Piero Hincapie missed another excellent opportunity by blazing over from inside the six-yard box.
Raya Survives Napoli Scare
Arsenal were also forced to withstand some pressure from the hosts.
David Raya spilled a long-range effort from Kevin de Bruyne, the former Manchester City midfielder and 2023 Champions League winner, but Ben White reacted quickly to clear the danger before Napoli could capitalise.
Hincapie was visibly relieved at the final whistle, dropping to his knees and thumping the ground after Arsenal secured the valuable three points.
Arsenal Start European Campaign With a Win
The Gunners had won all eight of their group-phase matches on their way to last season’s Champions League final, and they have now made a winning start to this campaign.
Arsenal created plenty of opportunities throughout the match, registering 26 attempts on goal — their highest total in a Champions League match since the beginning of last season.
Despite their wastefulness in front of goal, Odegaard’s late intervention ensured Arteta’s side left Naples with all three points.
