Arsenal's Champions League Unbeaten Streak Ends in Controversial Loss to Inter Milan
Arsenal’s impressive unbeaten run in this season’s UEFA Champions League came to an unfortunate end with a controversial first-half penalty that handed Inter Milan a 1-0 victory at the San Siro. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Arsenal was undone by a contentious decision just before the break.
A Controversial Penalty: Turning Point in the Match
The match took a dramatic turn just seconds before halftime when referee decisions and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) upheld a penalty award for Inter Milan. Mikel Merino, under pressure, was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box when Mehdi Taremi flicked it towards him. The penalty call sparked outrage among Arsenal fans and players, as replays showed Merino had little chance to move out of the ball’s path. However, the decision stood, and Hakan Calhanoglu confidently converted the penalty by sending the ball straight down the middle, beating goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
This goal marked the first time Arsenal had conceded in the Champions League this season, and it left them with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Arsenal Push for Equalizer but Fall Short
After the break, Arsenal came out strong, creating several chances to equalize. Gabriel Martinelli was close to scoring after a well-placed corner, but Inter's Denzel Dumfries managed to clear his header off the line. Minutes later, Arsenal’s Kai Havertz unleashed a powerful curling shot, only for Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer to make an exceptional one-handed save. Havertz again came close but was denied by a brilliant block from Yann Bisseck, highlighting the resilience of the Inter defense.
Despite dominating the game in terms of possession and attacking play, Arsenal could not break down Inter’s defense. The hosts’ backline, combined with Sommer’s impressive performance in goal, kept Arsenal at bay, ensuring the score remained 1-0 in favor of the Italians.
Arsenal’s Struggles Continue in Europe and the Premier League
This loss marked Arsenal’s first defeat in Europe this season, a stark contrast to their solid start in the Champions League. Arsenal entered the match with high hopes, having gone unbeaten in their first three group-stage games, including an impressive 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain. However, this defeat leaves them with only one win and three points in their opening four fixtures of the competition, sitting 12th in the 36-team league.
Despite the disappointment, the Gunners can take some positives from their performance. Arsenal created more chances than their opponents, and despite the loss, they were unlucky not to score. The match also saw the return of their captain, Martin Ødegaard, to the squad after a lengthy injury layoff, offering a glimmer of hope for their future performances.
Promising Displays Despite Tough Times
Arsenal’s run of form in the Premier League has been far from ideal, with a string of three games without a victory leaving them in fifth place and trailing league leaders Liverpool by seven points. The team’s struggles have been compounded by a series of injuries, notably Ødegaard’s absence with an ankle injury since August. However, with Ødegaard back in training and included in the squad for this match, Arsenal’s injury woes seem to be easing.
While the Gunners could not get the result they needed in Milan, their overall performance suggests they remain a competitive force in Europe. Manager Mikel Arteta will no doubt look to build on their promising display as Arsenal aims to reignite their faltering Premier League campaign. The return of key players like Ødegaard could prove crucial as the season progresses, providing much-needed depth and quality to the squad.
A Hard-Learned Lesson for Arsenal
Although Arsenal’s Champions League campaign took a hit with this defeat, their performance in Milan will give them valuable lessons moving forward. Their ability to create chances and control possession despite a harsh penalty call shows their resilience and determination. Arteta’s side will look to use this setback as motivation to bounce back, with a crucial Premier League match-up on the horizon.
The Gunners must now focus on regrouping ahead of their next European fixtures, aiming to secure qualification from the group stages, while also striving to overcome their Premier League struggles. With Ødegaard’s return and other key players nearing full fitness, Arsenal’s season is far from over, and they will be eager to prove their worth in the coming week.