Arsenal make a statement in Milan
Arsenal’s Champions League group-stage campaign finished in emphatic fashion as Mikel Arteta’s side maintained their flawless record, beating Inter away to confirm direct passage into the last 16 as one of the tournament’s in-form teams.
The night belonged to Gabriel Jesus, who struck twice in a performance that underlined Arsenal’s growing edge in Europe. His goals not only settled a score with Inter – who had beaten the Gunners at the same venue 14 months ago – but also pushed Arsenal beyond their longest winning run at Champions League level.
Jesus sets the tone early
Arsenal started with the authority of a side that knew exactly what it wanted: control the tempo, keep the ball, and punish Inter whenever the openings appeared. Jesus delivered the early breakthrough, offering a reminder of his value when the stakes rise. Sharp movement in the box and a striker’s instinct were enough to put Arsenal in front and tilt the tie in their favour.
The lead also continued a notable trend in Arsenal’s set-piece dominance this season. One of Jesus’ contributions came via another corner situation — the club’s 19th goal from a corner in the current campaign — a statistic that speaks to the coaching work behind the scenes and the confidence Arsenal now play with in dead-ball moments.
Inter respond, but Arsenal keep their nerve
Inter did not fold, and the hosts found a route back into the contest when Petar Sucic levelled during the first half. For a brief spell, it threatened to become the kind of European away test that can knock a team off rhythm: a volatile crowd, a dangerous opponent, and momentum swinging.
Yet Arsenal’s response was telling. There was no panic, no retreat into safety-first football. Instead, they continued to build patiently, trusting their structure and quality to create clearer chances.
Ruthlessness, not relief
Any remaining tension was ultimately removed as Arsenal reasserted control and Jesus found his second. It was the type of decisive contribution Arteta will want from his senior forwards as the competition reaches its knockout stages.
Arteta’s side also benefitted from strength off the bench, with substitute Viktor Gyökeres adding a late, composed finish to put the result beyond doubt. It was the final flourish on a night that reinforced Arsenal’s depth, flexibility, and clinical streak.
Arsenal’s qualification had been effectively guaranteed earlier in the evening thanks to Manchester City’s surprise defeat in Norway, but this win ensured there would be no complacency, no dip in standards, and no suggestion that Arsenal are merely happy to be progressing. They travelled to one of Europe’s toughest grounds and won with authority.
The only minor frustration for Arteta will be conceding yet again on the road — this being a fourth straight away fixture across four different competitions with a goal allowed — but that footnote barely touched what was, overall, a strong message to the rest of the field.
What it means
Arsenal head into the last 16 with momentum, belief, and a clear identity. With Jesus in form, set pieces delivering, and Arteta’s team showing a new level of cold-blooded finishing, they look increasingly equipped not just to compete, but to contend.
