Arsenal’s Champions League campaign suffered a setback as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Inter Milan at the San Siro, courtesy of a contentious first-half penalty.
The spot-kick, converted by Hakan Calhanoglu, was awarded after Mikel Merino was penalized for handball, despite the ball striking him from close range.
The decision left Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta fuming, and his team struggled to find their rhythm and equalizer in the second half.
The Gunners’ loss marked their second consecutive defeat, following their weekend setback against Newcastle.
The match was characterized by a stop-start opening 45 minutes, with 13 fouls disrupting the flow of the game.
Despite shading possession, Arsenal struggled to create clear-cut chances, managing only four shots on target from 20 attempts.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan threatened primarily through set pieces and Denzel Dumfries’ early effort that crashed against the crossbar.
The hosts’ goal came courtesy of Calhanoglu’s penalty, which proved decisive.
In search of an equalizer, Arteta introduced Gabriel Jesus at halftime, replacing Merino. The Brazilian’s presence added tempo and spark to Arsenal’s attack.
Later, the team added Ethan Nwaneri and Oleksandr Zinchenko, who brought fresh energy.
Kai Havertz drew an excellent save from Yann Sommer, while Yann Bisseck made a heroic block to deny him.
Martin Odegaard’s brief appearance following a two-month absence provided a rare positive note for Arteta.
The penalty decision that sealed Arsenal’s fate has sparked debate.
Merino’s handball was deemed intentional, despite the ball striking him from close range.
The referee’s call left Arsenal feeling aggrieved, and the decision ultimately proved pivotal.
The defeat leaves Arsenal with work to do in their Champions League campaign. Arteta’s side will seek to bounce back from consecutive losses and reignite their European ambitions.
Player Ratings:
– Aaron Ramsdale (6)
– Ben White (6)
– William Saliba (6)
– Gabriel Magalhaes (6)
– Oleksandr Zinchenko (6)
– Thomas Partey (6)
– Mikel Merino (5)
– Bukayo Saka (6)
– Kai Havertz (7)
– Gabriel Martinelli (6)
– Eddie Nketiah (5)
Subs:
– Gabriel Jesus (7)
– Ethan Nwaneri (6)
– Martin Odegaard (N/A)
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