Arsenal FC

How Xhaka’s goal helped Arsenal defeat PSV 1-0 in a Europa League encounter

Granit Xhaka’s goal at the Emirates Stadium gave Arsenal a 1-0 victory over PSV in the Europa League.

Although Mikel Arteta’s team had complete control of the game from the outset, it didn’t happen until the 70th minute. Arsenal dominated the stats, outshooting their competitors 25 to 4 and outscoring them 2.63 to 0.32 in terms of anticipated goals.

However, PSV displayed brief moments of threat on the counterattack, with Xavi making the most of the Dutch team’s opportunities. For Ruud van Nistelrooy’s team, Walter Benitez stood out the most in goal, making an astounding seven saves.

The north London team has already secured a spot in the top two of their group with two games still to play. In seven days, PSV and Arsenal will square off once more in Eindhoven.

Table for Group A:

1. Arsenal: twelve points

2. PSV: 7 points

3. Bodo and Glimt: 4 points

4. FC Zurich: zero points

Arteta’s thoughts following the game

“We had really excellent moments where we dominated against a really good side,” Mikel Arteta said in a post-game interview with BT Sport. We didn’t get that decisive pass or shot, but we’re thrilled with the victory nonetheless, and qualifying is the first stage. The gap between first and second place is significant, so we want to complete the task.

“You have to control your opponent in Europe. We were quite mature compared to them since they are incredibly talented, accustomed to winning, and have scored an astounding number of goals.

“It was a wonderful goal with the right foot, a half-volley,” said Granit Xhaka of his goal. Every game, he finds himself in these situations, which is how he scores goals.

In regards to Bukayo Saka, who required medical attention before returning, “I think he will be OK.”

For Xhaka, going from villain to hero

Commentators from both sides of the Atlantic have praised Xhaka’s success at Arsenal.

Who could have predicted that, said Martin Keown on BT Sport, “Granit Xhaka is now becoming an Arsenal fan favourite?”

We are aware that he struggled at the club, but that is in the past, and he is now performing well. He is crucial to the success of Arsenal as a team. He will be offered another contract if they succeed and take home a trophy.

Amazing turnaround, according to Aaron West on Paramount+. He completely changed his behaviour after being booed off the field by his own supporters and waving at them with hands we can’t see on video.


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