FT: NAPOLI 0-1 ARSENAL (0-3 ag.)
A superb win in a hostile European ground where elite European teams notoriously struggle. Arsenal were disciplined, well structured and ruthless; all features of our performance I called for in my preview. We started with intensity and purpose, looking to attack Napoli and secure our passage to the Semi-final early.
The removal of Ramsey halted our territorial dominance to an extent, but we managed to maintain a strong defensive unit, limiting Napoli to half chances throughout the game. Lacazette’s moment of magic (whilst involving a poor goalkeeping decision) was enough to settle us down, and from that moment on we saw the game out comfortably.
The second half was as comfortable as I’ve seen us this season, strolling towards the finish line. Whilst they threatened on occasions, the dominating presence of Sokratis and the ever-impressive Koscielny limited any series building of momentum. A solid away performance and a place in the semi-final. Our intentions turn back to the league on Sunday.
PLAYER RATINGS vs Napoli:
0️⃣1️⃣ Cech 6
0️⃣7️⃣ Sokratis 8
0️⃣6️⃣ Koscielny 9 (MOTM)
1️⃣8️⃣ Monreal 7
1️⃣5️⃣ Maitland-Niles 8
1️⃣1️⃣ Torreira 7
3️⃣4️⃣ Xhaka 8
3️⃣1️⃣ Kolasinac 8
0️⃣8️⃣ Ramsey 6
0️⃣9️⃣ Lacazette 8
1️⃣4️⃣ Aubameyang 6 –
0️⃣7️⃣ Mkhitaryan 6
0️⃣4️⃣ Elneny 6
1️⃣7️⃣ Iwobi 6 –
Tell me your thoughts below and if you don’t understand some of my ratings, ask below and I’ll give some justification.
Alfie Culshaw