Arsenal Open Champions League Campaign in Style

Arsenal began their Champions League journey with a valuable 2–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés. It was not a flawless performance, yet it showed resilience, patience, and depth. For supporters, this was a satisfying reminder that the Gunners can win even when not at their best.

A Controlled Yet Frustrating First Half

The first half followed a familiar pattern for Arsenal in Europe. They dominated possession, moved the ball well, and dictated the tempo. However, Bilbao’s compact defensive line made it difficult to create clear chances. Viktor Gyökeres had a header saved, while Noni Madueke caused problems on the right wing. Despite these efforts, the final ball lacked precision.

Meanwhile, Bilbao offered their own threat on the break. Their direct style and the roar of the home fans created moments of pressure. David Raya remained alert, dealing with long balls and crosses. Still, Arsenal entered half-time without a breakthrough, and frustration began to grow.

Arteta Turns to His Bench

The game changed when Mikel Arteta turned to his substitutes. Leandro Trossard replaced Gyökeres, and Gabriel Martinelli soon entered the field for Eberechi Eze. The impact was immediate.

Within just 36 seconds, Martinelli found the net. Released by a clever flick from Trossard, he raced through on goal, rounded Unai Simón, and finished with composure. The away section erupted. The goal lifted the team’s confidence and silenced Bilbao’s noisy crowd.

Sealing the Win

With the lead secured, Arsenal grew in control. Bilbao threw men forward in search of an equaliser, but this opened up space. The Gunners exploited it with a second goal. Martinelli, full of energy, drove to the byline and squared for Trossard. The Belgian’s effort deflected into the net, doubling Arsenal’s advantage.

The substitutes had transformed the match. What looked like a night of frustration turned into a professional away victory. This was a testament to the squad’s depth and Arteta’s timing.

Defensive Solidity at the Back

Equally important was the defensive display. Timber, Gabriel, Calafiori, and Mosquera formed a reliable backline. They stayed disciplined and dealt with Bilbao’s aerial threat. Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi provided protection in midfield, breaking up attacks before they developed.

Raya had little to do beyond routine saves. Nevertheless, a Champions League clean sheet away from home is never easy. It will give the backline further confidence moving forward.

Martinelli and Trossard Steal the Headlines

Gabriel Martinelli deserves huge credit. Coming off the bench, he showed sharpness, pace, and determination. His goal was instinctive, his assist perfectly timed. Performances like this underline his value to the squad.

Trossard also impressed. He displayed composure, vision, and intelligence in the final third. His flick to release Martinelli and his own finish highlighted his impact. These contributions prove why Arteta trusts him in crucial moments.

Areas That Still Need Improvement

Despite the win, Arsenal cannot ignore the areas for improvement. The first 70 minutes lacked urgency. Too many passes went sideways, and crosses often found defenders rather than teammates.

Moreover, some players looked rusty. Eze struggled to impose himself, while Gyökeres seemed off the pace after an early knock. The absence of Ødegaard, Saka, and Gabriel Jesus was evident. Their creativity and flair were missed, and Arsenal will need them back soon.

Why This Result Matters

This victory carries weight beyond three points. Champions League campaigns are shaped by strong starts. An away win in Bilbao, against a passionate side on their return to Europe’s elite, sets the right tone.

Furthermore, it shows that Arsenal can rotate and still succeed. Depth is critical when competing on multiple fronts. Tonight, the substitutes proved decisive, which should encourage the squad going forward.

Looking Ahead

Arsenal’s next European test comes against Olympiakos at the Emirates. Expectations will be high, and supporters will want a more dominant performance. Before that, Premier League duties resume with a demanding schedule. Arteta will need to balance freshness with momentum.

The lesson from Bilbao is clear: patience, rotation, and discipline pay off. If Arsenal continue to blend control with sharper finishing, they can go deep into this competition.

Legacy of the Night

Fans will remember this night for Martinelli’s instant impact, Trossard’s calm finish, and the defensive resilience. It was a match that highlighted not only star quality but also the value of teamwork.

Ultimately, Arsenal left San Mamés with three points, a clean sheet, and renewed belief. It might not have been spectacular from start to finish, but it was efficient and professional. For a Champions League opener, that is exactly what was needed.