Late Saka Strike Seals Hard-Fought 2-0 Victory for Arsenal Over Olympiacos

LONDON — Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the UEFA Champions League League Phase on Wednesday night, securing a 2-0 victory over Greek side Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium. Despite a dominant first half, Mikel Arteta’s men were forced to endure a nervy period before a stoppage-time goal from Bukayo Saka finally sealed the crucial three points.

The goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Saka ensured the Gunners continued their impressive run, making it two wins from two in Europe without conceding a goal.

Martinelli Breaks the Deadlock

The home side began the match with intent, making six changes from their weekend fixture but showing no loss of attacking fluency. It didn't take long for Arsenal's pressure to pay off.

In the 12th minute, the returning captain Martin Ødegaard threaded a beautiful pass to striker Viktor Gyökeres, who showed incredible strength to hold off two defenders and get a shot away. Although the effort was half-saved onto the post by Olympiacos keeper Kostas Tzolakis, Gabriel Martinelli was perfectly positioned to tap in the rebound from close range, putting Arsenal ahead.

Raya's Heroics Keep the Clean Sheet Intact

Despite controlling much of the first half, Arsenal failed to convert several chances, keeping the scoreline at a fragile 1-0. This lack of a cushion nearly proved costly.

The Emirates crowd was left stunned when Olympiacos launched a rapid counter-attack, culminating in a spectacular volley from former Wolves forward Daniel Podence. Arsenal's goalkeeper, David Raya, rose to the occasion, producing a breathtaking, full-stretch save to tip the ball over the bar, an intervention that was widely hailed as a match-saver.

Saka Seals the Points

The second half saw Olympiacos grow in confidence, pushing high and testing the Arsenal defense, with several attacks forcing the Gunners to defend deep. Manager Mikel Arteta introduced fresh legs, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, to regain control of the midfield and inject pace into the attack.

The anxiety was finally lifted in stoppage time (90+2'). Captain Ødegaard, who was awarded Player of the Match for his masterful playmaking, delivered another brilliant through-ball to Saka. The winger coolly slotted his shot low past the goalkeeper, effectively drilling it through his legs, to double the lead and put the result beyond doubt.

The victory ensures Arsenal continue their commanding start to the Champions League campaign, leaving Mikel Arteta pleased with the result, even if he will be keen for his side to be more clinical in future fixtures.

"We are very happy. Winning in the Champions League is always complicated," said Arteta after the match, highlighting Raya's "incredible save" as a crucial moment in the game.