The Gunners, in spectacular form, delivered a stunning 7-1 victory against PSV Eindhoven, all but securing their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR

A commanding first half

From the first whistle, Arsenal’s 4-3-3 setup controlled the game with precision and intensity. Although Declan Rice had an early goal disallowed for offside, the breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Jurriën Timber converted a pinpoint cross from Rice. Shortly after, the young Ethan Nwaneri doubled the lead with a clinical finish. The third goal arrived when Mikel Merino capitalized on a defensive mix-up to score in the 31st minute. Despite their struggles, PSV pulled one back before halftime with a penalty from Noa Lang after Thomas Partey conceded a foul in the box (3-1, 43rd minute).

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR

Relentless in the second half

Arsenal resumed the second half with the same intensity. Just two minutes in, Martin Ødegaard unleashed a powerful strike to make it 4-1. Leandro Trossard added another less than a minute later, bringing the score to 5-1. Although PSV tried to respond through Luuk de Jong and Noa Lang, Arsenal’s defense, led by Gabriel and William Saliba, held firm. Ødegaard struck again in the 73rd minute with a stunning effort, and Riccardo Calafiori rounded off the scoring with a composed finish to make it 7-1.

A statement victory

This emphatic performance showcased Arsenal’s attacking prowess, leaving no doubt about their intentions in this year’s Champions League. With a nearly insurmountable aggregate lead, the Gunners now await their next challenge in the competition, which could see them face either Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid. As for PSV, the return leg offers little more than a chance to salvage pride.

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR