Arsenal one step away from Champions League knockout stage after Zagreb win | OneFootball

Arsenal have almost booked their place in the Champions League last 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb at the Emirates Stadium last night.

The Gunners came flying out of the blocks, with Declan Rice hammering home a half-volley in just the third minute after Kai Havertz’s deft lay-off from Gabriel Martinelli’s cross.

It was a moment of quality from Rice, who continues to prove why he has become indispensable.

Arsenal’s fast start didn’t lead to the goal-fest fans might have hoped for. Dinamo, managed by Fabio Cannavaro, frustrated Arsenal with their defensive organisation.

Gabriel Magalhaes and Rice missed chances to extend the lead, with the latter heading wide from Ethan Nwaneri’s inviting cross.

The breakthrough Arsenal needed came in the second half when Havertz nodded home his 14th goal of the season.

Martinelli was again the architect, delivering a pinpoint cross for the German, who has been in resurgent form this week.

Martin Odegaard sealed the victory in stoppage time, tapping in from Leandro Trossard’s cross to mark a dominant yet hard-fought performance.

The win was crucial for a squad battling an injury crisis. Arteta confirmed Myles Lewis-Skelly picked up a knock in training, adding to a growing list of absentees.

Despite the injuries, Arsenal’s progression in Europe has been smooth. The victory means they will avoid the gruelling February play-offs, barring an improbable goal difference swing.

With the Premier League title race intensifying and domestic performances under scrutiny, the win was timely.

Arsenal’s final group-stage match against Girona offers a chance to top the table outright.