Arsenal secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Girona on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, ensuring their place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. The match, held at Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, saw the Gunners recover from an early setback to claim all three points.
Match Overview
Girona took the lead in the 27th minute after Arnaut Danjuma capitalized on an error by Arsenal’s goalkeeper, Neto, who was making his debut for the club. At 35 years and 194 days old, Neto set a record as Arsenal’s oldest debutant in over a century.
However, Arsenal responded before halftime. In the 37th minute, Jorginho successfully converted a penalty following a foul on Raheem Sterling. Just minutes later, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri made history with a superb curling strike, marking his first goal in European competition and becoming the second-youngest English player to score in the Champions League.
Second-Half Drama
Girona thought they had found an equalizer in the 77th minute when Cristhian Stuani found the net, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for offside. Arsenal had a chance to extend their lead in stoppage time when Raheem Sterling won a second penalty. However, his effort was denied by Girona’s substitute goalkeeper, Pau Lopez.
Qualification Secured
With this victory, Arsenal confirmed their place in the Champions League knockout stages, finishing third in their group. The result adds to their momentum as they continue their European campaign.
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