Arsenal Stun Atletico in Second-Half Blitz
Arsenal delivered a masterclass in efficiency as they dismantled Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid 4-0 at the Emirates Stadium, maintaining their flawless Champions League campaign. The Gunners erupted with four goals in a 13-minute second-half spell, capped by Viktor Gyokeres breaking his goal drought with a clinical double.
Match Highlights
After a goalless first half featuring near-misses from Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal shifted gears following Julian Alvarez’s 49th-minute strike against the woodwork. Gabriel broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, glancing home Declan Rice’s pinpoint free-kick. Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead seven minutes later, slotting into the far corner after a surging run from Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Gyokeres then stole the spotlight, pouncing on defensive chaos for his first (67’) before tapping in Gabriel’s headed assist from a corner three minutes later. The strikes ended a seven-game dry spell for the Swedish forward, sparking jubilant celebrations from teammates.
Post-Match Reactions
“No one beats Atletico 4-0. Arsenal steamrolled them – I haven’t seen Simeone’s side look so lost in years,” remarked Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson.
Manager Mikel Arteta praised Gyokeres’ resilience: “He’s been pivotal even without scoring. Today’s goals were a reward for his persistence. His physicality and pressing elevate our entire attack.”
Atletico’s Struggles
Simeone admitted his team was outclassed: “Critical moments decided this. When Alvarez hit the bar, it shifted momentum. Arsenal exploited our vulnerabilities ruthlessly.” The defeat leaves Atletico scrambling in Group C, while Arsenal top the table with maximum points.
The Gunners now turn focus to their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, riding a wave of momentum after their European statement.
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