Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, thanks to an own goal by goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk. Despite controlling much of the game, the Gunners wasted multiple opportunities to increase their lead.
Gabriel Martinelli’s shot, which deflected off Riznyk and into the net, was the decisive moment, but Arsenal will be concerned about missed chances and injuries, particularly with a crucial game against Liverpool on the horizon.
So, how did the Gunners perform in this Arsenal vs Shakhtar Donetsk Champions League game? Here are the Arsenal player ratings vs Shakhtar Donetsk in their 1-0 in the Champions League at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal player ratings vs Shakhtar Donetsk - Champions League
Arsenal starting XI vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Goalkeeper: David Raya (6/10)
Raya had little to do for most of the match, but when called upon, he made a crucial save in the final minutes to deny Shakhtar Donetsk’s Pedrinho from snatching a late equalizer. A solid display with minimal fuss.
Right Back: Ben White (4/10)
White struggled to make his mark and was substituted at halftime, possibly due to fitness concerns. Already on a yellow card, his performance was below his usual standard, and he didn’t look entirely sharp.
Centre Back: William Saliba (6/10)
After his red card at the weekend, Saliba had a much calmer night. He kept Shakhtar’s forwards quiet and managed the game well from the back without being troubled too much.
Centre Back: Gabriel Magalhaes (6/10)
A typically front-footed display from Gabriel, who made several important blocks and clearances. His physicality was key in maintaining Arsenal’s defensive solidity.
Left Back: Riccardo Calafiori (6/10)
Calafiori was involved in Arsenal’s attacking moves down the left, linking up well with Martinelli. However, his night ended in disappointment with a second-half injury, which will be a concern for Arsenal fans and Mikel Arteta.
Defensive Midfielder: Thomas Partey (7/10)
The standout player on the pitch for Arsenal, Partey was dominant in both defensive and attacking phases. His ability to break up play and dictate the tempo was crucial, especially in the first half. He moved to right-back in the second half and continued to impress.
Defensive Midfielder: Declan Rice (6/10)
Rice provided energy and drive in midfield, showcasing his ability to play incisive passes and push the team forward. He had a couple of opportunities to score but couldn’t find the back of the net, a solid performance overall.
Attacking Midfielder: Leandro Trossard (5/10)
Trossard was lively throughout the game, creating some chances with his pressing and movement. However, his weak penalty attempt in the second half was a major letdown and summed up Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal.
Left Wing: Gabriel Martinelli (6/10)
The brightest spark in Arsenal’s attack, Martinelli’s shot led to the only goal of the game, even if it won’t go down as his. His pace and trickery caused problems for Shakhtar’s defense, and he was Arsenal’s most dangerous player.
Right Wing: Gabriel Jesus (5/10)
Jesus missed a golden opportunity just before the break, which seemed to affect his confidence for the rest of the game. He worked hard on the right flank but struggled to make a decisive impact in front of goal.
Centre Forward: Kai Havertz (5/10)
Havertz worked hard off the ball but once again failed to score at home. His positioning was decent, but he never really threatened the Shakhtar defense, and it was surprising that he didn’t take the penalty.
Arsenal substitutes vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Mikel Merino (5/10)
Came on for White at halftime and made a few vital defensive interventions. However, his influence going forward was minimal, and Arsenal lost some attacking momentum.
Raheem Sterling (4/10)
Sterling came on in the second half but was unable to stamp his authority on the game. He made little impact during his time on the field.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (N/A)
Brought on to replace the injured Calafiori late in the second half.
Jorginho (N/A)
Came on in the closing minutes to help see out the win.
Arsenal manager vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Mikel Arteta (5/10)
Arteta made a few changes to his lineup but opted for experience over youth, particularly with the exclusion of Nwaneri. His side dominated the game but lacked a cutting edge in attack. Arteta will be pleased with the win but concerned about the team’s finishing and injury to Calafiori ahead of their next match against Liverpool.
Arsenal player ratings vs Shakhtar Donetsk: Starting XI - Raya (6/10); White (4/10), Saliba (6/10), Gabriel (6/10), Calafiori (6/10); Partey (7/10), Rice (6/10), Trossard (5/10); Martinelli (6/10), Jesus (5/10), Havertz (5/10). Substitutes - Merino (5/10), Sterling (4/10), Lewis-Skelly (N/A), Jorginho (N/A). Manager - Arteta (5/10).
What are your Arsenal player ratings vs Shakhtar Donetsk in their 1-0 in the Champions League at the Emirates Stadium?