Super sub scores, Arsenal beats Bilbao in opening round of Champions League

(NLDO) – Two characters that were rarely mentioned became Arsenal's heroes when they both created and scored in the 2-0 victory at Athletic Bilbao.

Arsenal shows strength

The "fire pan" San Mamés was blazing hot from the ground to the stands when Bilbao hosted Arsenal in the opening match of the Champions League group stage in the early morning of September 17. However, the absence of a series of key players due to injury did not prevent the "Gunners" from showing their strength against their Spanish opponents and sending a warning message to the rest of Europe.

Viktor Gyokeres was tightly blocked by the home players

The Basque team entered the match with determination, pressing fiercely, causing Arsenal many difficulties throughout the first half. Gyokeres, Eze and Madueke were almost completely separated, the "Gunners"' attacks were often blocked in front of the home team's penalty area.

The first half thus ended goalless.

Eze Eberechi did not have many chances to shoot at goal

Crush the host

In the second half, coach Mikel Arteta brought Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli into the field and the adjustments with these old factors immediately took effect. In just about 30 seconds on the field, Martinelli showed how useful he really was when the home team was stuck in attack from the beginning of the match.

Gabriel Martinelli made the difference less than a minute after entering the field

In the 72nd minute, receiving a very delicate pass from Leandro Trossard, Martinelli sprinted away and then coolly shot past Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon, opening the score for Arsenal. The goal forced Bilbao to raise their formation, creating more opportunities for their opponents to counterattack.

The Brazilian player was happy after opening the score

In the 87th minute, Martinelli continued to leave his mark when he dribbled the ball at speed down the left wing before passing back to Trossard. The Belgian striker finished accurately, sealing a 2-0 victory, ending an impressive performance by two Arsenal players who only came on as substitutes.

Leandro Trossard sealed a 2-0 win for visiting team Arsenal

Speaking after the match, coach Arteta was satisfied with the way his players handled the situation: "We had a lot of difficulties in the first half, but the team maintained their concentration. Martinelli and Trossard made the difference, that's why I always believe in the depth of the current squad."

Arsenal had a great start in the Champions League group stage

The win in the Basque Country gave Arsenal a good start in the Champions League and confirmed their ambition to conquer the top of Europe. For Bilbao, the defeat clearly reflected a lack of sharpness in attack – something they need to improve if they do not want to be left behind in the race in a tough group.

Fellow London team Tottenham also had a good start in the Champions League when they were given a "gift" by their rivals Villarreal. From Lucas Bergvall's cross aimed at teammate Richarlison, Villarreal goalkeeper Luiz Junior let the ball slip out of his hands and straight into his own net in the 4th minute.

Tottenham players were awarded a goal against Villarreal

One goal was enough for Tottenham to extend their impressive streak under new coach Thomas Frank in all competitions.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/sieu-du-bi-lap-cong-arsenal-dai-thang-bilbao-vong-mo-man-champions-league-196250917060247463.htm