Arsenal 3-0 AS Monaco: Saka shines with brace as Gunners thrash visitors
Bukayo Saka (23) netted two goals as Arsenal maintained their unbeaten streak at home in the UEFA Champions League (UCL), defeating Monaco 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium and moving into the top three of the standings.
Both teams entered the match with 10 points in the group stage, and Arsenal was eager to demonstrate that their recent 1-1 draw against Fulham was merely an anomaly.
Although Gabriel Jesus narrowly missed connecting with Mikel Merino’s precise cross early in the match, the Gunners initially found it challenging to penetrate their opponents' defense despite maintaining possession.
A remarkable long pass from the composed Jakub Kiwior midway through the first half highlighted an alternative approach to creating opportunities, yet Jesus was unable to convert from close range against Radoslaw Majecki.
Shortly thereafter, Jesus had another opportunity to score, this time following a sharp pass from Gabriel Martinelli, but once again, Majecki thwarted his efforts.
Given Arsenal's dominance in chances, it was not surprising when they took the lead in the 34th minute. Champions League debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly skillfully maneuvered past Maghnes Akliouche and set up Jesus, who expertly found Saka at the back post for a simple finish.
Martin Ødegaard would have regretted missing a chance after shooting wide following a quick interception, while Martinelli was walking a tightrope just before halftime, having already received a yellow card.
Immediately after the interval, Monaco indicated their potential threat from set pieces as captain Thilo Kehrer headed off target. However, despite showing some improvement, the visitors failed to seriously challenge David Raya, with Breel Embolo shooting wide while turning.
Their attempts to play out from the back ultimately backfired when Mohammed Salisu misplayed a pass to Majecki, who, pressured by the advancing Kai Havertz, inadvertently played the ball directly to Saka. The forward capitalized on the mistake, scoring in the 78th minute to extend Arsenal's lead.
The scoring concluded ten minutes later, as Havertz redirected Saka’s shot after a swift free-kick was taken.
The last occasion Arsenal did not score at home was in April against Aston Villa. Following their progress towards the knockout stage in this match, they will be eager to maintain their scoring streak at the Emirates when they face Everton on Saturday.
On the same day, Monaco will resume their league campaign and still have an opportunity to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League group stage.
SportsLigue