Girona 1–2 Arsenal: Player Ratings As Gunners Secure Champions League Round of 16, Arsenal, with a rotated squad, defeated Girona on the final day of the league phase

Arsenal completed their group-stage journey in the Champions League with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Girona, a result that saw them safely secure their spot in the round of 16. The match was a defining one for the Gunners, as they faced Girona away from home on the final day of the league phase. With Mikel Arteta opting for a rotated squad, the young talents of the team stepped up, delivering a crucial win.

The match was a tale of resilience, especially after a tough start. Girona’s Arnaut Danjuma opened the scoring with a brilliant strike from outside the box, leaving Arsenal with an early deficit to overcome. However, the Gunners quickly responded with their own brand of attacking football. Jorginho equalized for Arsenal from the penalty spot, following a foul inside the box, and the momentum shifted in favor of the visitors.

Arsenal’s breakthrough came just before halftime, with teenage prodigy Ethan Nwaneri making an immediate impact on his full Champions League debut. The young star curled a sublime shot into the far corner of the net, giving Arsenal the lead and completing a remarkable turnaround. Nwaneri’s goal was the highlight of a match that also saw some drama in the second half.

Girona thought they had found an equalizer through Cristhian Stuani, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review ruled that he was offside. Arsenal’s defense, led by Gabriel Magalhães and Jakub Kiwior, stood firm in the face of pressure from the home side. In the dying moments of the match, Raheem Sterling had a chance to extend Arsenal’s lead with a penalty, but his attempt was denied by Girona’s goalkeeper.

Despite this missed opportunity, Arsenal held on for a 2-1 win, which secured them third place in the group, advancing directly to the knockout rounds. The victory also provided a much-needed confidence boost for the team as they prepare for the Carabao Cup semifinals and continue their pursuit of Premier League leaders Liverpool.

This win was a testament to the depth of Arteta’s squad and the rising stars in the team, with players like Nwaneri and Leandro Trossard proving to be key contributors. Now, with their Champions League future secured, Arsenal can focus on the challenges ahead, aiming to build momentum for the second half of the season.

Arsenal Player Ratings vs. Girona (4-3-3)

GK: Neto – 5.0/10
Neto had a somewhat shaky performance, failing to keep out Danjuma’s strike and being unable to make a crucial save later in the match. He will be disappointed with his efforts but did make some decent interventions during the game.

RB: Thomas Partey – 7.2/10
Partey was solid in defense and offered a calm presence in the midfield. His defensive work was key in ensuring that Girona didn’t break through with too many opportunities.

CB: Gabriel Magalhães – 6.7/10
Gabriel’s leadership at the back was important, though he had a few nervy moments. However, his composure helped stabilize the defense as the game progressed.

CB: Jakub Kiwior – 6.7/10
Kiwior was dependable alongside Gabriel, making some key tackles and clearances. He showed a good understanding of the game, even though Girona posed a constant threat.

LB: Riccardo Calafiori – 7.5/10
Calafiori was one of the standout players, providing excellent cover on the left and contributing both in defense and attack. His ability to join the offensive play was notable throughout the match.

CM: Mikel Merino – 7.5/10
Merino was a stabilizing presence in the midfield, dictating the tempo of the game and offering support to both the defensive and attacking units. His work rate was commendable.

CM: Jorginho – 7.6/10
Jorginho’s penalty was crucial in bringing Arsenal back into the game. He was composed on the ball and provided a vital link between defense and attack.

CM: Martin Ødegaard – 7.3/10
Ødegaard continued to be a creative force in the middle of the park, orchestrating much of Arsenal’s attacking play. While not directly involved in the goals, his influence was undeniable.

RW: Ethan Nwaneri – 7.6/10
Nwaneri was the hero of the match, scoring a stunning goal that proved to be the match-winner. His calmness in such a high-pressure game was remarkable, and his performance was a glimpse into his bright future at the club.

ST: Leandro Trossard – 7.8/10
Trossard was a constant threat in attack, providing pace and creativity. His link-up play was vital, and although he did not score, his work rate and contribution were crucial.

LW: Raheem Sterling – 6.7/10
Sterling had a mixed performance, offering some dangerous runs but missing a key penalty that could have sealed the win earlier. His pace was a constant problem for the Girona defense, but he couldn’t quite finish the job when it mattered most.

Substitutes

Jurrien Timber (46′ for Partey) – 6.8/10
Timber came on to add fresh legs to the defense and did well in keeping Girona’s attack at bay.

Myles Lewis-Skelly (70′ for Calafiori) – 6.5/10
Lewis-Skelly had a decent cameo, but it was a game of few chances for him to really make an impact.

Kai Havertz (70′ for Trossard) – 6.4/10
Havertz added some much-needed creativity to the midfield but didn’t have enough time to fully influence the game.

Declan Rice (81′ for Jorginho) – 6.2/10
Rice’s late introduction helped to shore up Arsenal’s midfield as they tried to see out the game.

Gabriel Martinelli (87′ for Nwaneri) – 6.0/10
Martinelli didn’t have much time to make an impact, but his presence was felt as Arsenal closed out the game.

Conclusion

Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona was a fitting way to end the group stage and secure their place in the Champions League knockout rounds. The performance highlighted the team’s depth, with young players like Nwaneri and Trossard stepping up when it mattered most. With the group phase behind them, the Gunners can now look forward to more challenges, including their next Premier League fixtures and the Carabao Cup. This victory, combined with the continued rise of their talented youth, bodes well for Arsenal’s ambitions in all competitions this season.