Arsenal secured a 12th consecutive victory at the Emirates Stadium to get a safe passage to the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League as Group A winners after a 1-0 victory over FC Zürich. 

Defeat in Eindhoven on matchday five meant victory was imperative for the Gunners, needing to win the group to avoid a daunting play-off with sides dropping down from the UEFA Champions League.

Despite a strong start from the visitors, Mikel Arteta’s men would take the lead through an unlikely source, as Kieran Tierney netted his first goal of the season. The Scottish international showed the tremendous technique to strike a bouncing ball into the bottom corner after Zürich had failed to clear their lines.

Despite his side being a goal to the good, Arteta was not content, with the Swiss champions’ endeavor making them a constant threat, albeit with very little to test Aaron Ramsdale. 

Arsenal remained the more threatening side, with Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus brilliantly denied by Yanick Brecher on either side of the interval.

Arsenal introduced Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey on the hour mark to try and put the game to bed but found themselves on the end of a real scare at the other end. 

Antonio Marchesano’s driven shot was well kept out by Ramsdale, who was beaten by the rebound, but the offside flag came to the Gunners’ rescue. 

With PSV comfortably ahead in Norway, it was a nervy final few minutes for Arsenal as they held off the resilient visitors to ensure they finished top of the group. Despite a spirited display, Zürich’s miserable season continued, exiting Europe while sitting bottom of the Swiss Super League.

Arsenal will now face London rivals Chelsea in the Premier League at the weekend as they continue their hope of winning the Premier League or at least going into the World Cup break at the top of the table.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu