Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka played pivotal roles in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Tuesday, marking the Gunners’ first win in this season’s Champions League. Havertz opened the scoring with a header, while Saka doubled the lead before halftime, showcasing Arsenal’s dominance at the Emirates Stadium.
After drawing their opening match against Atalanta, Mikel Arteta’s team now sits on four points as they aim for progression to the knockout stage of the revamped tournament. Following last season’s exit to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals and a narrow title race loss to Manchester City, Arsenal remains unbeaten in nine games across all competitions this season as they pursue silverware.
In addition to the victory, Arsenal received a boost with the return of Spain midfielder Mikel Merino, who made his long-awaited debut for the final 30 minutes after recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during his first training session after joining from Real Sociedad. This development is especially encouraging for Arteta, given that captain Martin Ødegaard is currently sidelined.
PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma was back in goal after a three-match absence due to a thigh injury, facing an early test as he rushed out to save from Gabriel Martinelli. Saka, who captained the side for the match, quickly shifted the momentum in Arsenal’s favor, attempting a curling shot just over the bar from the edge of the area.
Havertz put Arsenal ahead in the 20th minute, capitalizing on the relentless pressure applied by the team. Leandro Trossard delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box, allowing Havertz to make a perfectly-timed run and bravely head the ball past the advancing Donnarumma. The German forward, who previously scored the winning goal in Chelsea’s Champions League final in 2021, is starting to find his rhythm after a challenging start to his career with Arsenal, following his £65 million ($86 million) transfer last year.