Arsenal travelled to Italy knowing a strong outcome would confirm their position near the summit of the Champions League standings, and they delivered with authority against Inter Milan.
Arsenal travelled to Italy knowing a strong outcome would confirm their position near the summit of the Champions League standings, and they delivered with authority against Inter Milan.
From the opening moments, the visitors dictated play and pressed high, hemming Inter into their own half. That dominance was rewarded early when Gabriel Jesus reacted quickest inside the box to steer the ball home in the 10th minute.
The hosts gradually found momentum after falling behind. Their spell of pressure brought an equaliser as Petar Sucic struck from a distance, his effort flying past David Raya after Nicolo Barella’s shot had been blocked.
Arsenal responded in familiar fashion. A corner routine restored their advantage midway through the first half, with Leandro Trossard directing Bukayo Saka’s delivery back into danger before Jesus rose unchallenged to score again.
The second goal underlined Arsenal’s efficiency from set plays this season, adding to an impressive tally created from corner kicks.
This victory extended Arsenal’s flawless Champions League sequence and confirmed a top-two finish in the league phase, removing the need for a February playoff and ensuring a home second leg in the knockout rounds.
It also continued an excellent run away from home. Recent trips have included victories over Chelsea, Portsmouth, and Inter Milan, alongside a draw at Nottingham Forest that still helped widen their advantage at the top of the Premier League table.
Mikel Arteta has been able to rotate heavily during this demanding stretch. Significant changes were made in Milan, at Forest, and in the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, reflecting the depth available within the squad.
That flexibility appears timely as the campaign moves towards its decisive period, with Arsenal showing consistency regardless of personnel or venue.
Jesus’ performance carried extra significance. The forward was making only his third start of the season after returning from a lengthy absence caused by an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
His two goals ended a long Champions League drought dating back to November 2023 and provided a clear boost to his rhythm and sharpness.
Later on, substitute Viktor Gyokeres ensured there would be no late drama, bending a fine effort into the net from outside the area to seal a 3-1 success.
With Kai Havertz still working back to full condition following a knee problem, contributions from multiple attacking options could prove decisive as Arsenal chases silverware.
