Arsenal secure a perfect seven-from-seven to march into the Round of 16 in style
Arsenal confirmed their place in the Champions League round of 16 with a statement 3-1 victory away to Inter Milan, underlining their credentials against one of the competition’s heavyweights.
The result sealed automatic qualification with a game to spare and extended Arsenal’s perfect record in the league phase.
Mikel Arteta’s side approached the contest with authority, despite already knowing progress was assured earlier in the evening.
They were rewarded with an early breakthrough as Gabriel Jesus continued his impressive return to form.
Arsenal struck inside the opening exchanges when sustained pressure forced Inter deep and created space in the area.
Jurrien Timber’s effort ricocheted kindly and Jesus reacted quickest to prod the ball home from close range.
Inter responded with greater urgency and drew level when Petar Sucic capitalised on a loose ball to fire past David Raya.
The equaliser briefly disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm but did not alter their control of the contest.
Arteta’s side regained the lead through another well-drilled set-piece, highlighting a growing strength in their European campaign.
Bukayo Saka’s corner was headed back across goal by Leandro Trossard, allowing Jesus to finish unmarked from inside the six-yard box.
It marked Arsenal’s 19th goal from a corner this season and reinforced their efficiency in decisive moments.
Arsenal carried their threat into the second half, managing the tempo while continuing to test Inter’s defensive line.
Opportunities followed as Eberechi Eze and Saka both went close, while Raya was required to remain alert at the other end.
Inter pressed in search of a route back into the contest, but clear chances proved elusive.
Jesus departed to a standing ovation after a performance that blended sharp movement with ruthless finishing.
The decisive moment arrived late on after Viktor Gyokeres was introduced from the bench.
The Sweden forward showed composure beyond his minutes, collecting a long pass and beating Yann Sommer with a controlled finish from distance.
That goal removed any lingering doubt and reflected the depth of Arsenal’s attacking options.
The win stretched Arsenal’s winning streak in the competition to seven matches, their longest at this level.
It also ensured they will bypass the play-off round and enjoy a more favourable route into the knockout stages.
For Inter Milan, the defeat dented their own hopes of automatic qualification and exposed lapses they could not afford.
For Arsenal, the night served as a clear message to the rest of Europe.
They are not merely qualifying but doing so with control, confidence and growing authority.
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