Bukayo Saka delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice to lead Arsenal to a commanding 3-0 victory over Monaco, strengthening their bid for a spot in the Champions League knockout stages.
The Gunners controlled the first half, creating multiple scoring opportunities but struggled to convert enough to secure an early advantage. Arsenal finally broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Myles Lewis-Skelly set up Gabriel Jesus, whose precise cross allowed Saka to tap in from close range.
In the second half, substitute Kai Havertz made an immediate impact. In the 74th minute, his pressure on Monaco goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki forced a costly error, which Saka pounced on for his second goal of the night. Saka continued to dominate, delivering an inch-perfect cross in the 88th minute for Havertz, who completed Arsenal’s third goal with a composed finish.
Despite their dominance, Arsenal’s earlier wastefulness in front of goal could have proven costly. Gabriel Jesus saw two one-on-one opportunities saved by Majecki, while Martin Ødegaard missed a golden chance after intercepting a wayward pass, shooting wide from a promising position. Gabriel Martinelli also squandered a clear opening, curling his shot off target when well-placed.
Monaco threatened to punish Arsenal’s missed chances early in the second half. Thilo Kehrer came close with a header from a set-piece, while Takumi Minamino and Breel Embolo also tested the Gunners’ defense.
However, Arsenal’s clinical late display ensured their missed opportunities were inconsequential. The win lifts them to third in the group with 13 points, putting Mikel Arteta’s side in a strong position ahead of their final two group-stage matches.
Arsenal will next host Dinamo Zagreb on January 22 before traveling to Girona a week later, with a place in the knockout rounds firmly within reach.
