The match started with Arsenal taking control of possession—finishing the first half with 63% of the ball and registering 11 shots, five of which were on target. The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Bukayo Saka calmly converted a penalty, sending Slavia keeper Jakub Markovic the wrong way after a handball in the box by Lukás Provod. Saka’s composure from the spot set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Slavia Prague, who had entered the game hoping to capitalize on their strong home record, struggled to create clear-cut chances against Arsenal’s well-organized defense. The Czech side managed just eight shots in total and failed to register a single effort on target, as the Gunners’ backline, marshaled by Gabriel Magalhães and Piero Hincapié, remained resolute.
Arsenal doubled their lead early in the second half. In the 46th minute, Mikel Merino, who started up front in place of the injured Gyokeres, latched onto a cross from Leandro Trossard and finished with a powerful left-footed strike into the bottom corner. Merino added his second of the night in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Slavia to put the result beyond doubt.
Manager Mikel Arteta made four changes to his starting lineup for this fixture, bringing in Christian Nørgaard for the suspended Martin Zubimendi and handing Ethan Nwaneri his first European start of the season. The tactical tweaks paid dividends, as Arsenal’s midfield controlled the tempo and provided a solid platform for the attack.
The win sees Arsenal maintain a perfect record in the group stage—three wins from three matches without conceding a single goal. Their dominance is reflected not only in the scoreline but also in the underlying statistics: 61.5% possession, 14 shots, and a relentless press that stifled Slavia’s build-up play. Slavia Prague, meanwhile, have just two points from their opening three games and face an uphill battle to progress.
With this victory, Arsenal have firmly established themselves as one of the favorites to advance deep into the competition. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as they continue their European campaign, with Arteta’s tactical acumen and squad depth proving key assets in the pursuit of continental success.
For a comprehensive breakdown of the match statistics and commentary, visit Slavia Prague vs. Arsenal on ESPN or follow live updates and analysis via BBC Sport.