Arsenal 2-0 PSG (Oct 1, 2024) Match analysis

First-half goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka helped Arsenal secure a 2-0 home win over Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday and start their Champions League campaign. New signing Mikel Merino celebrated his debut in one game.

After drawing against Italian club Atalanta in their opening game, the onus was on Mikel Arteta's side to pick up a win and they were impressive against the French champions.

Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

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The in-form Havertz put his side ahead with his header 20 minutes after a teasing cross from Leandro Trossard and Saka put Arsenal completely under control 15 minutes later when his free-kick somehow found its way into the net.

PSG, who won their opening game against Girona, hit the woodwork in each half and played with more energy after the break but could hardly complain about the result.

Arsenal's comfortable position in the game allowed Arteta to bring Merino on for his debut after 63 minutes. The Spanish international suffered a broken shoulder in his first training session after joining from Real Sociedad.

The win moved Arsenal into the top eight of the new 36-team league phase, with their next game at home against Shakhtar Dontetsk after the international break. PSG will face PSV Eindhoven in their next game.