Arsenal beat Napoli in the Champions League thanks to Odegaard’s goal
Arsenal defeated Napoli 1-0 in the opening match of the Champions League league phase at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. The only goal was scored by Martin Odegaard in the 75th minute, as he fired a low shot from outside the penalty area after a quick combination with Christos Tzolis.
As Sky Sports News reports, the London side dominated their opponents throughout the match but failed to convert several chances before Odegaard’s goal. In the first half, Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino had opportunities to score, while after the break Piero Hincapie fired over the bar from close range.
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Arsenal’s advantage
Arsenal had 26 shots at Napoli’s goal. Mikel Arteta’s team recorded 4.05 expected goals. Odegaard’s goal was his fourth in five matches this season and secured Arsenal a winning start in the Champions League.
Late moments
After taking the lead, Arsenal had an opportunity to extend their advantage. Noni Madueke failed to convert a one-on-one chance, while Tzolis’ subsequent shot was blocked on the goal line. Late in the match, Napoli created a rare dangerous moment: Kevin De Bruyne, finding himself in a favourable position, chose to pass instead of shooting. The victory was Arteta’s team’s fifth in a row in all competitions.
