Trossard and Saka Illuminate Arsenal’s Win Over Sevilla
Arsenal have moved closer to securing a spot in the Champions League knockout stages following a 2-0 victory against Sevilla, courtesy of goals from Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka on Wednesday.
Mikel Arteta’s team bounced back from consecutive domestic defeats, with Trossard opening the scoring in the first half and Saka adding another after the break at the Emirates Stadium.
Leading Group B with three wins from four games, Arsenal is four points ahead of second-placed PSV Eindhoven. The Gunners can secure a spot in the last 16 by earning just one point from their remaining matches against Lens at home and PSV away.
The only concern for Arteta was Saka’s injury, as he limped off with a twisted ankle in the closing stages. Despite this, Arsenal’s victory over Sevilla helped erase the bitter memories of recent struggles, including a League Cup defeat to West Ham and the end of their unbeaten Premier League start at Newcastle.
Arteta’s fury over a controversial VAR decision in the Newcastle defeat had not subsided, with him calling it “embarrassing” and a “disgrace.” However, there were no VAR controversies this time as Arsenal comfortably defeated Sevilla, who sit at the bottom of Group B without a win.
Arteta emphasized the need for ruthlessness and making opponents “suffer” for a successful Champions League run, a message the Gunners embodied by outclassing Sevilla.
Despite Kai Havertz’s early miss, Arsenal dominated the game. Trossard scored in the 29th minute after a superb pass from Jorginho and a low cross from Saka. The Belgian’s goal, his fourth of the season, justified Arteta’s decision to play him as the central striker.
Sevilla struggled to threaten, with Adria Pedrosa’s attempt neutralized by William Saliba’s brilliant sliding tackle. Saka and Martinelli combined for the second goal in the 64th minute, with Saka calmly finishing past Marko Dmitrovic after a precise pass from Martinelli.
Arsenal’s incisive performance showcased their prowess, and they maintained their dominance over Sevilla, securing a 2-0 victory and strengthening their position in the Champions League group stage.